The Maritime Component of Operation WHIRL STROKE has issued a safety advisory to mariners, boat operators and riverine communities following the significant rise in water levels caused by the ongoing rainy season.
According to an official signed statement by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Operation WHIRL STROKE, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the advisory was issued on the directive of the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara.
The statement said the Maritime Component Commander, Lieutenant Commander Dusse Christopher Zakari, notified mariners, passengers, boat operators and residents engaged in economic activities along inland waterways within the Joint Operations Area that rising water levels have increased the risk of accidents on waterways.
Lieutenant Commander Zakari explained that the increase in water volume is often accompanied by strong currents and turbulence, posing serious dangers to water transportation and other riverine activities. He warned that failure to observe safety measures could lead to boat mishaps resulting in the loss of lives and property.
To mitigate the risks, the Maritime Component directed all passengers and mariners to wear life jackets at all times while on board. Boat operators and owners were also instructed to ensure the availability of at least one life buoy in every vessel.
The advisory further prohibited the overloading of boats beyond approved carrying capacities and directed operators to carry essential safety and emergency equipment, including functional torchlights, extra spark plugs and tarpaulins.
Mariners were also urged to avoid polluting waterways with non-biodegradable materials and other waste products, while maritime unions were tasked with enforcing the ban on night sailing.
The statement emphasized that all marine operations are restricted to between 6:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily for security reasons. Boat operators were also directed to register with their respective unions and carry valid means of identification while operating on waterways.
Lieutenant Commander Zakari called on members of riverine communities to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or criminal activities to relevant law enforcement agencies.
He warned that defaulters who fail to comply with the directives would be sanctioned in accordance with existing regulations and urged mariners’ unions to ensure strict compliance among their members.
The Maritime Component of Operation WHIRL STROKE reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting property and maintaining security across waterways within its area of responsibility, while appealing to the public to cooperate with security agencies by adhering to the prescribed safety measures.
