NSIB launches probe into Benue Boat accident

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has opened an investigation into the boat accident in Benue state that claimed 11 lives on the River Benue.

The bureau confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday by Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, its director of public affairs and family assistance.

According to the statement, Captain Alex Badeh Jr, the NSIB director-general led a team of investigators on an on-the-spot assessment visit to Wadata along the River Benue on Wednesday as part of efforts to establish the cause of the tragedy.

The agency said the visit was aimed at gathering first-hand information from affected communities, boat operators, and other stakeholders, as well as strengthening safety measures on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

During the visit, Governor Hyacinth Alia reportedly commended the bureau’s swift response and called for a more sustained presence of the NSIB in Benue State to enhance safety advocacy and reduce risks along the river.

Captain Badeh reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to working with state governments, local communities, operators, and regulators to improve transport safety across the country.

He stressed that the investigation would not only determine the circumstances that led to the accident but also help develop preventive measures to avoid similar occurrences in the future.

“Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by this unfortunate accident. Every loss of life is one too many,” he said, adding that many waterway accidents could be prevented through improved safety awareness and stronger compliance with regulations.

The NSIB team also engaged community leaders and boat operators during the visit, where eyewitness accounts and operational insights were gathered to support ongoing investigations.

The bureau said findings from the exercise would guide future safety recommendations aimed at improving inland water transport safety nationwide.