DHQ Warns Of Waterway Dangers, Enforces Night Sailing Ban Amid Rising Rivers

The Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has issued a fresh safety advisory to boat operators, passengers and residents of riverine communities, warning that rising water levels caused by the ongoing rainy season have significantly increased the risk of accidents on inland waterways.

The warning was issued by the Maritime Component of Operation Whirl Stroke on the directive of the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, as authorities moved to prevent avoidable fatalities and property losses linked to worsening water conditions.

In a statement released on Tuesday by the Acting Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, the Maritime Component Commander, Lieutenant Commander Dusse Zakari, said sustained rainfall across the region had led to a sharp increase in water volumes, resulting in stronger currents and dangerous turbulence in many waterways.

According to him, the changing conditions pose serious threats to transportation and other river-related activities if operators and passengers fail to comply with established safety guidelines.

“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,” Zakari said.

He warned that the likelihood of boat mishaps had increased considerably and could result in loss of lives and property if adequate precautions were not taken.

To minimise the risks, the Maritime Component directed all passengers and mariners to wear life jackets throughout their journeys and instructed boat operators to ensure every vessel carries at least one life buoy.

Operators were also cautioned against overloading their boats, a practice authorities say remains one of the leading causes of water transport accidents across Nigeria's inland waterways.

In addition, boat owners were advised to equip their vessels with essential emergency and safety equipment, including functional torchlights, spare spark plugs and tarpaulins.

The advisory further called on waterway users to avoid dumping waste and non-biodegradable materials into rivers, warning that pollution could create additional hazards and obstruct navigation routes.

As part of measures aimed at improving safety and security, the Maritime Component reiterated the existing ban on night travel across waterways within its operational area.

According to the directive, all maritime unions must ensure strict compliance with the restriction, which limits boat operations to between 6:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily.

The restriction, authorities noted, is designed not only to reduce accident risks but also to strengthen security monitoring along waterways.

Boat operators were also instructed to register with their respective maritime unions and carry valid means of identification while operating.

The task force urged residents of riverine communities to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, criminal activities or security concerns to relevant authorities.

Zakari stressed that cooperation from local communities remains critical to maintaining safety and security across waterways, especially during the peak of the rainy season.

He also called on maritime unions to take responsibility for enforcing the new safety measures among their members and ensuring compliance with operational guidelines.

The Maritime Component reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while maintaining security along waterways within its area of responsibility.

With rainfall expected to continue across many parts of the country in the coming months, authorities are urging all waterway users to prioritise safety and strictly adhere to regulations designed to prevent avoidable tragedies.