Esther Oritse
Lagos — The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has reported a total of 162 boat accidents over the past decade, resulting in 229 fatalities during that period. In addition, 745 individuals were rescued from marine accidents across the state.
A detailed statistical report provided to Vanguard analyzed the trends in accident rates, death tolls, and rescue operations over the past ten years, shedding light on variations and potential contributing factors.
In 2014, LASWA recorded 18 accidents, 32 deaths, and 24 rescues. In contrast, the following year saw an increase to 19 accidents, 42 deaths, and 35 rescues. The death rate dropped significantly in 2016, with 10 fatalities, 10 accidents, and 14 rescues, compared to 2017, which saw only four rescues, 18 deaths, and six accidents.
In 2018, there were 7 accidents, 25 deaths, and 67 rescues. The year 2019 had 13 accidents, 34 deaths, and 96 rescues.
The year 2020 marked the second-highest number of casualties, with 150 people rescued, 34 deaths recorded, and 19 accidents reported. In 2021, LASWA saw a notable improvement, with 17 accidents, five deaths, and 83 rescues.
2022 recorded the highest casualty figures, with 22 accidents, 39 deaths, and 116 rescues, while 2023 had a reduction with 17 accidents, 18 deaths, and 83 rescues. In 2024, LASWA reported 14 accidents, 18 deaths, and 83 rescues.
The report indicates a significant decrease in the death rate, from 42 in 2015 to just 5 in 2021, reflecting improvements in safety measures and emergency response efficiency. Additionally, the increase in the number of rescues suggests more effective rescue operations.
