By Ali Rabiu Ali, Dutse
The Non-State Actors (NSAs) component of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) in Jigawa State has expressed deep sorrow over the recent boat accident that claimed more than 40 lives, calling on the state government to urgently implement approved water transport safety measures to prevent further tragedies.
In a condolence message signed by its Co-Chair, Isah Mustapha, the group extended heartfelt sympathies to the Jigawa State Government, the bereaved families, and communities affected by the disaster, describing the incident as a painful reminder of the recurring boat accidents that continue to claim lives in the state’s riverine areas.
The OGP noted that farmers, traders, women, schoolchildren and other rural residents who depend on waterways for transportation remain vulnerable, particularly during the rainy season when flooding increases the risks of water travel.
According to the organisation, recurring boat mishaps are largely caused by overloading of boats, failure by operators and passengers to wear life jackets, inadequate rescue and emergency response facilities, rising water levels, flooding, adverse weather conditions and poor public awareness of water transport safety practices.
The group observed that such avoidable tragedies have become an annual occurrence in several communities across the state and require coordinated and sustained government intervention.
While commending the Jigawa State Government for making provisions in the 2026 budget to address the challenge, the OGP noted that the approved N400 million for the procurement of speedboats under the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and an additional N30 million for safety equipment and emergency response gadgets represent important investments in protecting lives.
However, it warned that budgetary allocations alone would not prevent further loss of lives unless they are implemented without delay.
“Every rainy season that passes without these interventions exposes thousands of citizens to avoidable risks,” the statement said.
The organisation therefore urged the Jigawa State Executive Council to immediately direct relevant agencies to commence the procurement of the approved speedboats, life jackets, rescue equipment and other emergency response facilities to ensure deployment before the peak of the flooding season.
It also called for the equitable distribution of life-saving equipment to high-risk riverine communities, sustained public awareness campaigns on safe water transportation, strict enforcement of safety regulations against erring boat operators and the establishment of community-based water transport safety committees to strengthen compliance and emergency response.
The OGP stressed that protecting the lives of citizens through the timely implementation of approved public investments aligns with the core principles of the Open Government Partnership, which include transparency, accountability, citizen participation and responsive governance.
The group prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died in the accident, speedy recovery for the injured and strength for their families and the people of Jigawa State to bear the loss.
