The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has led the official distribution of 3,500 life jackets to water transport users in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

A statement issued by his ministry on Friday noted that this initiative is a major step in the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce boat mishaps and promote safer water travel across Nigeria.

In the statement, Oyetola emphasized the importance of water transportation for Nigerians, particularly in coastal and riverine communities. He described the campaign as “strategic, proactive, and long overdue,” underscoring the administration’s dedication to safety.

“What we are doing here today is saving lives. It is that simple,” Oyetola said. “With these life jackets, we are empowering our waterways users, fishermen, traders, students, and transport operators with the basic tools to survive and be safe.”

Highlighting Bayelsa’s extensive river and creek network, Oyetola said the state was a natural priority for the campaign. He also praised Governor Douye Diri for aligning Bayelsa with the Federal Government’s Marine and Blue Economy vision.

He specifically commended the creation of a state Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and reiterated federal support for the Agge Deep Seaport project, calling it “transformative and visionary,” and capable of “reshaping the economic landscape of not just Bayelsa, but the entire South-South region.”

“The Agge Deep Seaport will serve as a major maritime gateway, facilitating international trade, reducing congestion at existing ports, creating jobs, boosting investments, and accelerating development in the Niger Delta,” he said. “The Federal Government remains fully committed to its realization.”

Oyetola urged both boat operators and passengers to prioritize safety on the waterways.

“They are not for decoration, they are for your protection,” he said. “Safety is everyone’s responsibility.”

Also noted in the statement, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Olufemi Oloruntola, said the distribution was approved by the minister as an urgent response to recurring waterway accidents. He echoed the call for consistent use of safety gear.