Mu’azu Shehu
The Managing Director, Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC), Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, ( Katukan Yauri), has led a delegation from the commission to Warrah, Ngaski Local Government area of Kebbi State to commiserate with people of the area over the unfortunate incidence of boat mishap that claimed the lives of over 100 passengers.
In a statement signed by Alhaji Nura Tanko Wakili,the Head, Media and Public Affairs of the commission, said the delegation had the directives of the Chairman HYPPADEC Governing Council Honourable Barrister, Joseph Terfa Ityav, to commiserate with the people affected by the incidence.
He said, Yelwa, described it as devastating and advocated for a concerted effort to avert future occurrence.
“HYPPADEC Governing Council and the management are touched by the catastrophe and will soon convey a stakeholders consultative meeting to explore possible safety and control measures on maritime transportation in the area, as part it’s timely response to address human factors contributing to the menace of boat mishap.
“The Managing Director disclosed that the commission has secured the approval of the Governing Council to cut and evacuate tree trunks in some portions of River Niger while consultations are ongoing with National Inland Waterways Authority to crush big stones causing accidents on the waterways.
”All these the Managing Director said are part of the Commission’s proactive measures to address incessant boat and canoe accidents on River Niger.
“Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa FCNA, presented a cash donation of N3 million as a support to the families of the deceased and survivors receiving treatment at home and hospital.
“The Managing Director prayed for repose of the souls of the deceased and urged Riverine Communities to always observe safety measures while crossing the River,” the statement said.
Responding on behalf of their people, the Chairman Ngaski Local Government, Alhaji Abdullahi Buhari Warrah and the District Head of Maginga Alhaji Abdulmalik Nuhu thanked HYPPADEC for the timely visit and support to the victims.
They also expressed appreciation on activities the commission intends to undertake to contain the menace urging relevant authorities to ensure enforcement of safety guidelines on maritime transportation.
The HYPPADEC delagation comprised of Member representing Niger State on the Governing Council, Honourable Mika’il Al-Amin Bmitosahi, Member representing the Nothern States, Engr. Aminu Mohammed Ganda, Director Operations, Engr. Ilyasu Abdullahi and Director Legal Services, Barrister Jamil Jega.