Wednesday seventy-nine boat operators from Malali and Muritaro received licenses and Certificates of Competency Master, following a safety sensitisation and evaluation conducted by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD).
The recognition means operators have demonstrated the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and effectively operate small craft along the river.
Of the amount, 43 boat operators were from Malali, while 36 were from Muritaro.
Bosai also received approval to operate major vessels for transporting bauxite to an Atlantic location, and subsequently to international waters. Operations will initially involve two self-propelled barges, with plans for an additional two, thereby increasing river traffic.
MARAD Director General, Steven Thomas said the goal of the agency is to ensure safe operations, especially with the booming tourism sector. According to him “tourists always ask if the boats they use are certified, and we want to position our communities to benefit from this.”
Operators were also given life jackets as part of enhancing safety measures on the waterways.
