Maritime Component of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) has issued a fresh safety advisory to boat operators and riverine communities following the rise in water levels across inland waterways due to the ongoing rainy season.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Whirl Stroke, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu.
According to the command, increased rainfall has led to higher water volumes, stronger currents and rougher river conditions, raising the risk of boat accidents if safety measures are not strictly observed.
The Maritime Component Commander, Lieutenant Commander Dusse Christopher Zakari, who issued the advisory on the directive of the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, urged all water transport operators and passengers to comply with safety regulations to prevent loss of lives.
Zakari warned that the current weather conditions have made water transportation more dangerous and called for greater caution among those using inland waterways.
He stressed that life jackets must be worn by all passengers and crew members throughout every journey, while boats should also be equipped with at least one life buoy for emergency situations.
The commander further cautioned operators against carrying passengers beyond approved capacity, noting that overloading remains one of the major causes of boat mishaps.
He also advised operators to ensure that essential safety and emergency items, including functional torchlights, spare spark plugs and tarpaulins, are available on board at all times, especially during the rainy season when weather conditions can change suddenly.
On environmental safety, Zakari warned against the disposal of waste into rivers and waterways, saying such actions contribute to pollution and create obstacles that can endanger navigation.
The OPWS commander also reiterated the existing ban on night travel, directing maritime unions to enforce compliance among their members.
According to him, boat operations are only permitted between 6:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily for security reasons.
He further directed all boat operators to register with their respective unions and carry valid means of identification while carrying out their duties.
Zakari urged residents of riverine communities to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or criminal activities to security agencies.
He warned that operators who violate safety regulations would face sanctions in accordance with existing laws, adding that maritime unions must play an active role in ensuring compliance.
The commander reaffirmed the commitment of the Maritime Component of Operation Whirl Stroke to ensuring safety on the waterways and reducing preventable accidents during the peak of the rainy season.
He urged stakeholders to take the advisory seriously and work together to avoid what he described as “avoidable tragedies”.
