The Maritime Component of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) has issued a comprehensive safety advisory to mariners, boat operators, passengers, and riverine communities following the significant rise in water levels caused by the ongoing rainy season.
In a statement signed by the Acting Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, the Maritime Component Commander, Lieutenant Commander Dusse Christopher Zakari, said the increased water volume across inland waterways has led to stronger currents and turbulence, heightening the risk of boat accidents and other maritime incidents.
According to him, the advisory was issued on the directive of the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, as part of efforts to safeguard lives and property within the Joint Operations Area.
Lieutenant Commander Zakari warned that failure to observe safety regulations could result in avoidable tragedies, including loss of lives and valuable property.
To mitigate these risks, the Maritime Component directed all boat operators and waterway users to strictly comply with established safety measures. These include the compulsory use of life jackets by all passengers and mariners, provision of at least one life buoy on every boat, and strict adherence to approved passenger capacities to prevent overloading.
The advisory also mandates boat operators to carry essential emergency equipment such as functional torchlights, spare spark plugs, and tarpaulins while conducting riverine operations. Operators and passengers were further urged to maintain environmental responsibility by avoiding the disposal of non-biodegradable waste into waterways.
For security reasons, the Maritime Component reiterated the prohibition of night sailing, directing that all marine transportation activities be conducted only between 6:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily. Boat operators were also instructed to register with their respective maritime unions and carry valid means of identification while operating on inland waterways.
Additionally, residents of riverine communities were encouraged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or criminal activities to relevant security agencies.
Lieutenant Commander Zakari emphasized that violators of the safety directives would be sanctioned in accordance with existing maritime regulations. He also called on maritime unions to ensure strict enforcement and compliance among their members.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Maritime Component of Operation Whirl Stroke to protecting lives, securing waterways, and supporting safe economic activities within its operational area.
The public was urged to cooperate with security agencies by adhering to the safety guidelines and maintaining vigilance throughout the rainy season.
