Army Operation Whirl Stroke issues security advisory to mariners, riverine communities as water level rises

The Maritime Component of the Nigerian Army’s Operation Whirl Stroke, under the direction of Force Commander Major General Moses Gara, has released a security advisory for the marine community.

Lieutenant Commander Dusse Christopher Zakari, the Maritime Component Commander, issued a statement on Tuesday informing the public, especially mariners, boat operators, passengers, and residents engaged in economic activities along the inland waterways within the Joint Operations Area, that the current rainy season has led to a notable increase in water levels.

“This rise in water volume is frequently accompanied by strong currents and turbulence, which can pose significant risks to water transportation and other riverine activities.

“As a result, there is a heightened risk of boat accidents that could lead to loss of life and property if proper safety measures are not followed,” the statement indicated.

The advisory urged all mariners and boat operators to strictly observe the following safety precautions: ensuring that all passengers and mariners wear life jackets at all times while on board, and that at least one life buoy is available on the vessel.

Boat operators and mariners are also cautioned against overloading boats beyond their approved carrying capacities, and to travel with essential safety and emergency equipment, including functional torchlights, extra spark plugs, and tarpaulins, which should be carried on board. They are also advised to refrain from polluting waterways with non-biodegradable materials and other waste products.

All maritime unions are required to enforce the ban on night sailing, with marine operations strictly limited to the hours between 6:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily for security purposes.

According to the advisory, all boat operators must register with their respective unions and carry valid means of identification while operating on the waterways.

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.