Boat owners decry decline in Lagos to Porto-Novo travels

The Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN) on Thursday decried a decline in waterways travel on the Lagos to Porto-Novo route.

Its National President, Mr. Tope Fajemirokun, said this while speaking with the newsmen in Lagos.

Fajemirokun said that so far, only 65 trips have been made from January till date.

According to him, in 2023, no fewer than 144 trips were made from Lagos to Porto-Novo through the waterways, with over four journeys in a day.

“We have recorded a 20 percent decline in Lagos to Porto-Novo journeys on the waterways.

“As pleasurable as it is, people have reduced their patronage because, as of today, we have been able to make only 65 journeys. This is not encouraging.

“We know this is due to the economic situation in the country. We call on Nigerians to still see the waterways as the safest means of transportation.

“The cost of each journey is N10,000 per person as individuals from Nigeria and Benin Republic usually frequent the two counties for the purpose of tourism and trade.”

Fajemirokun said that the association was committed to safety on Nigeria’s waterways through annual training of boat operators, drivers and jetty operators.

According to him, boat operators are also working on ensuring all safety rules are adhered to by passengers.

He said intending passengers should be assured of the availability of the needed safety materials like the life jackets and all.