The Operation WHIRL STROKE Maritime Component, on the directive of the Force Commander Major General Moses Gara; wishes to sensitize the marine community on some safety advisory.
A statement signed by Lieutenant Ahmed Zubairu Zubairu, acting media information officer HQ operation Whirl Stroke said the Maritime Component Commander, Lieutenant Commander Dusse Christopher Zakari, hereby notifies the general public, particularly mariners, boat operators, passengers, and residents conducting economic activities along inland waterways in the Joint Operations Area that the ongoing rainy season has resulted in a significant rise in water levels.
This increase in water volume is often accompanied by strong currents and turbulence, which may pose serious risks to water transportation and other riverine activities. Consequently, there is an increased likelihood of boat mishaps that could result in the loss of lives and property if adequate safety measures are not observed. In view of the foregoing, all mariners and boat operators are hereby directed to strictly adhere to the following safety precautions:
1. All passengers and mariners are mandated to wear life jackets at all times while on board.
2. Boat operators and boat owners are to ensure that at least one life buoy is available on board.
3. Overloading of boats beyond approved carrying capacities is prohibited.
4. Essential safety and emergency equipment, including functional torchlights, extra spark plugs, and tarpaulins, are to be carried on board.
5. Mariners should desist from polluting waterways with non-biodegradable materials and other waste products.
6. All maritime unions are to enforce the prohibition of night sailing. Marine operations are strictly restricted to the hours between 6:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily for security reasons.
7. All boat operators must register with their respective unions and carry valid means of identification while operating on the waterways.
8. Members of riverine communities are encouraged to promptly report any suspicious or criminal activities to relevant law enforcement agencies.
Lieutenant Commander Zakari further emphasized that defaulters who fail to comply with these safety directives will be sanctioned in accordance with existing regulations. He also called on all mariners’ unions to ensure strict enforcement and compliance of these safety advisory among their members.
The Maritime Component of Operation WHIRL STROKE remains committed to safeguarding lives, protecting property, and ensuring the security of waterways within its area of responsibility.
Members of the public are urged to cooperate with security agencies by adhering to these safety measures and remaining vigilant at all times.