To bolster safety in Plateau state's inland waterways, it's imperative for all levels of government to collaborate with private entities and maritime experts, particularly those affiliated with organizations like the Alumni of Maritime Academy of Nigeria (AMANO) Jos Chapter. Responsibilities should be delineated as follows:
1. **Government Responsibilities**:
- **Regulation and Enforcement**: Governments must enact and enforce regulations pertaining to water safety, including the mandatory use of Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) and adherence to speed limits.
- **Infrastructure Development**: Invest in the development of infrastructure such as adequate signage, docking facilities, and emergency response stations along waterways.
- **Public Awareness Campaigns**: Launch comprehensive campaigns to educate the public about water safety practices and the importance of PFDs.
- **Training and Certification**: Provide funding and resources for training programs aimed at both water recreation center staff and visitors, ensuring they possess the necessary skills to navigate waterways safely.
2. **Public-Private Partnership (PPP)**:
- **PFD Provision**: Private entities can partner with the government to ensure the availability of PFDs at water recreation centers, possibly through subsidized distribution or rental programs.
- **Lifeguard Services**: Private companies can be contracted to provide certified lifeguard services at water recreation centers, supplementing government efforts in ensuring on-site safety.
- **Infrastructure Maintenance**: PPP arrangements can be established for the maintenance and upkeep of waterway infrastructure, ensuring facilities remain in optimal condition.
3. **Involvement of Maritime Experts**:
- **Alumni Engagement**: Maritime experts, particularly those affiliated with organizations like AMANO Jos Chapter, can provide invaluable expertise in formulating water safety policies and guidelines.
- **Training and Capacity Building**: These experts can collaborate with government agencies to develop training modules and capacity-building initiatives tailored to the specific needs of water recreation centers and their visitors.
- **Technical Advisory Role**: Maritime professionals can serve as technical advisors, assisting in the design and implementation of safety protocols, emergency response plans, and equipment standards.
By leveraging the expertise of maritime professionals, fostering public-private partnerships, and delineating clear governmental responsibilities, Plateau state can enhance safety in its inland waterways and mitigate the risk of accidents.
Engr Charles David Tanko
Maritime Consultant
Pearl offshore Nigeria limited
dukecharles.david@pearloffshores.com www.pearloffshores.com
This is timely I have been very concerned about the way and manner our water ways have been running with our the stakeholders. Safety is very key our people don't have any idea how is been done. So it's a welcome idea we can't have Marine experts on the Plateau and our people are not enlightened about safety.
ReplyDeleteThanks very much
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