Commission Distributes 31 Fibreglass Boats To Riverain Communities

By Nura Mohammed, Abubakar Hassan, Minna

The National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) has distributed 31 fibreglass boats across riverine communities in its member states.

The distribution, which coincided with the World Maritime Day celebration, took place at the N-HYPPADEC Headquarters in Minna.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Alh. Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, explained that the distribution of the fibreglass boats was part of the Commission’s broader vision to revolutionize marine transportation across its member states.

He noted that the boats represent a significant improvement over traditional wooden boats, adding that they are more durable, safer, and offer superior performance, requiring minimal human labor. This advancement, he said, would reduce the risks associated with human error and ensure greater reliability in river navigation.

Highlighting the Commission’s efforts to improve the lives of people in its member states, Yelwa emphasized that one of N-HYPPADEC’s primary goals has been to enhance marine transportation and mitigate the recurring boat mishaps that have plagued many communities, often leading to loss of lives and livelihoods.

Alh. Sadiq Yelwa expressed hope that the initiative would prompt state governments to recognise the importance of water transportation and invest in it as a critical component of national transport infrastructure.

He also urged all relevant stakeholders to monitor and ensure the proper use of the vessels, stressing the need for strict adherence to safety protocols. Yelwa reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to the well-being of riverine communities within its operational areas.

According to him, the allocation of boats considered the use of riverine transport as the primary means of transportation in the communities. Niger State will receive eight boats, Kebbi six, Kwara and Kogi four each, Benue two, Taraba and Nasarawa two each, and Gombe and Kaduna one each. States without immediate needs for the boats will be compensated in other ways.

Yelwa also commended Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, for his visionary leadership in infrastructure development.

Representing the Governor, Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba described the distribution of the fibreglass boats as a key to improved community development. He said the boats would facilitate the movement of goods and services, strengthen trade networks, and enhance community connectivity.

The Governor, through his representative, also emphasised that the gesture by N-HYPPADEC would not only save lives but also give riverine communities a sense of belonging.

He reiterated the State Government’s commitment to partnering with N-HYPPADEC and other stakeholders to develop riverine communities.

He further advised Transport Commissioners from N-HYPPADEC member states to conduct thorough feasibility studies on water transportation and forward their findings to their respective state governments for further action.

The Director of Operations, represented by the Head of Dams and Operations, Mal. Zubairu Adamu, said the distribution of the fibreglass boats aims to ensure efficiency and safety in travel across riverine communities. He added that the initiative seeks to foster connectivity, improve the livelihoods of boat users, and promote economic activities across N-HYPPADEC member states.

In separate goodwill messages, the Niger State Commissioner for Transport, Hajiya Hadiza Idris Kuta, and her Benue State counterpart, Barr. Omale Oga Matthew, speaking on behalf of the Transport Commissioners Forum, commended N-HYPPADEC for the initiative and called for more collaboration between the Commission and state governments.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Niger State Association of Boat Operators, Alh. Attahiru Bawa Isah, expressed appreciation to N-HYPPADEC for the intervention. He called for greater synergy and the establishment of water rescue marshals to complement the work of water marshals.

Dominica Nwabufo