Investigation Begins into Benue Boat Accident that Killed 11 People

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has started looking into the boat accident that took 11 lives in Benue State. Captain Alex Badeh Jr., who is the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, is leading a team of investigators to Wadata along the River Benue for a safety assessment.

This was shared in a statement on Thursday by Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau.

The visit took place on Wednesday. The bureau aims to find out what happened, gather information from the affected communities, and improve safety measures on Nigeria’s inland waterways.

Governor Hyacinth Alia praised the bureau’s quick response. He called for a stronger and more lasting presence of the NSIB in the state to help with safety advocacy and risk-reduction efforts along the River Benue.

Badeh assured that the bureau is dedicated to working with state governments, local communities, operators, and regulators to boost transportation safety across the nation.

“The NSIB welcomes every opportunity to collaborate with state governments, local communities, operators, and regulators in advancing transport safety. We stay committed to finding practical ways to make navigation safer on the River Benue and across Nigeria’s inland waterways,” he said.

During a media briefing, NSIB DG Alex Badeh sent condolences to the Benue State Government and the families of the victims. He called the accident a painful reminder that more needs to be done to follow safety measures.

“Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected by this unfortunate accident. Every loss of life is one too many, and while each case is different, many accidents can be prevented through better safety awareness, responsible practices, and stronger cooperation among regulators, operators, and waterway users,” Badeh stated.

He explained that the visit was not just to understand what caused the accident. It was also to engage directly with communities that depend on water transport for their daily lives.

“We are here to listen, learn, and engage directly with those who operate and use these waterways. Safety is a shared responsibility, and ongoing public education is one of the best ways to reduce risks and prevent accidents on our waterways,” he added.

The NSIB team later went to Wadata, where they met community leaders, residents, boat operators, and representatives from the Boat Operators Association.

The investigators said these meetings gave them valuable eyewitness accounts and insights into local transport operations, safety practices, and operational challenges. The bureau stated that findings from this visit would aid their ongoing investigation and help shape future safety recommendations to prevent similar tragedies.