The Sokoto State Government has begun the training of boat drivers and operators across the state as part of renewed efforts to curb flood-related accidents and improve water safety.
The programme, coordinated by the State Emergency Management Agency, comes on the heels of the government’s recent procurement of 20-seater motorised fibre boats and 1,000 life jackets.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu, represented by his deputy, Alhaji Muhammad Gobir, had earlier inspected the equipment during an unveiling ceremony at the Sokoto Furniture Factory.
Officials said the training would provide boat operators with technical skills and safety knowledge, including the proper use of life jackets, to enhance water transport management.
“The initiative is expected to boost emergency response and strengthen safety measures in communities vulnerable to flooding,” a statement from the organisers noted.
The Director of Relief and Rehabilitation at SEMA, Mustapha Umar, emphasised the importance of the intervention, citing recent boat mishaps that claimed several lives in the state.
He said, “The recent tragic mishaps in the state, including boat accidents that claimed several lives in 2025, make this initiative timely and necessary.”
Speaking on behalf of the Special Adviser to SEMA, Aminu Bodinga, Umar commended Governor Aliyu for what he described as his foresight and commitment to citizens’ safety and welfare.
The official flag-off and distribution of the boats and life jackets will take place after the training, with deployment planned across 10 flood-prone local government areas under the supervision of local council authorities.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected]
