Causes of boat mishaps in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State

Abstract

Boat mishaps remain a major challenge limiting the efficiency of inland water transportation, especially in rural areas. This study investigated the causes of boat mishaps in Mokwa Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State, Nigeria. The study adopted a quantitative research design utilising a questionnaire as an instrument for data collection. 115 boat operators served as the population of the study, out of which 30 operators from four major inland water transport (IWT) ports, namely Gbajibo, Poluwaya, Bukka-Gungu-Zaki, and Gbajibo Modu, were sampled. Stratified and accidental sampling techniques were adopted, and responses were analysed using descriptive statistics such as mean and rankings. Secondary data were sourced from the Niger State Ministry of Transport (NSMT) and were further analysed descriptively to complement information sourced from operators. The findings revealed that adverse weather conditions, overloading, poorly marked navigation routes as well as the use of old and poorly maintained boats were the major causes of boat mishaps. The study further established that boat mishaps in the area are often severe, involving high casualty rates and predominantly affecting wooden boats. The study recommended strict enforcement of safety laws, provision and enforced use of life jackets as well as routine dredging of waterways to remove obstructions.