Tinubu Mobilization Force Applauds FG’s Move to Ban Wooden Boats, Hails Safety-Driven Reform

TMF Media Desk Reporting-

Abuja, January 12, 2026

The Tinubu Mobilization Force (TMF) has commended the Federal Government’s call for a ban on the use of wooden boats for commercial water transportation, describing the move as bold, timely, and critical to enhancing safety and security on Nigeria’s waterways.

The commendation follows recent remarks by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, who urged state governments to phase out wooden boats and adopt safer alternatives such as fiber-reinforced plastic and aluminum vessels. According to the Minister, the continued use of wooden boats has contributed significantly to recurring and avoidable waterway accidents across the country.

Reacting to the development, the Tinubu Mobilization Force noted that the Federal Government’s position reflects a proactive commitment to safeguarding lives, particularly in riverine and coastal communities where water transport remains a primary means of mobility.

In a statement signed by the forum’s Convener, Dr. Lami Oguogho, and made available to newsmen by the Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Kingsley Ohens, the group applauded the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing safety within the nation’s evolving blue economy framework.

“The decision to discourage the use of wooden boats for commercial operations is a strategic and well-informed intervention that will significantly reduce accidents, loss of lives, and property on our waterways,” the statement read. “This policy direction clearly demonstrates the Federal Government’s resolve to address long-standing safety challenges with practical and sustainable solutions.”

TMF aligned with Dr. Oyetola’s assertion that wooden boats are structurally unstable, prone to rapid deterioration, and highly susceptible to capsizing, especially when overloaded or operated under poor conditions. The group emphasized that modern vessels made from fiber-reinforced plastic and aluminum offer greater durability, stability, and safety, in line with global best practices.

The forum also lauded the Minister’s emphasis on strict adherence to water safety regulations, including the prohibition of night travel, avoidance of overloading, and compulsory use of life jackets. TMF described the distribution of 35,000 life jackets to riverine states in 2025 as a commendable and life-saving intervention that should be sustained and expanded.

According to the group, effective collaboration between the Federal Government and state authorities will be crucial to the successful implementation of the proposed ban and broader water transport reforms.

“The Tinubu Mobilization Force encourages state governments to fully embrace this initiative and work closely with federal agencies to enforce safety standards,” the statement added. “A safer water transport system is not only essential for protecting lives but also for unlocking the full economic potential of Nigeria’s waterways.”

TMF reaffirmed its support for policies and reforms that strengthen national security, promote public safety, and advance the sustainable development of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sectors.