_MASTER Mariners Association of Nigeria (MMAN) has expressed concern over the incessant boat accidents in Lagos and called for more regulation on water ways transportation in the state.

Disclosing this to newsmen in Lagos, the group’s President, Captain Ade Olopoenia, said that the association has plans to meet with both the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and other relevant agencies to reverse the trend.

Olopoenia said that inasmuch as water transportation is considered to be one of the safest mode of transportation, the need to imbibe a culture of safety cannot be overemphasized, adding that every measure must be put in place to ensure safety.

The retired ship Captain also said that besides the issue of boat mishaps in the state, the group will look at the Cabotage regime and its implementation.

He explained that Nigerians are yet to maximize the benefit of the Act due to its faulty implementation.

The former Director in charge of Maritime safety at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency noted that until the Cabotage Act is properly implemented, the benefits will continue to elude indigenous players in the maritime industry.

Already, the group has met with the management of the Nigerian’s Council, (NCS) just as plans have been concluded to meet with managements of the Nigerian Ports Authority, (NPA) the National Inland Waterways Authority, (NIWA) and Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, (NIMASA).

Apart from the issue of safety, the master mariners have also expressed concern over the issue of security on the nation’s waterways adding that the group is looking forward to partnering with all concerned agencies.