By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base (FOB), Ibaka in Akwa Ibom has donated 30 life jackets and 20 lifebuoys to boat operator unions for improved safety of maritime workers operating within its Area of Operations.
The Commanding Officer of the Base, Capt. Aliyu Abdullahi made the donation during Civil Military Relations Outreach in Ibaka Beach in Mbo Local Council laat weekend.
With theme, “Personal Survival Techniques for improved Survivability at sea,” Abdullahi said the programme was meant to remind the users of the waterways on the need to replace adequate safety measures while using the waterways.
“FOB Ibaka conducted a maritime safety outreach to the host community of Ibaka as part of her non kinetic operations and civil military relations inline with Operation Delta Sanity 2,” he said.
“A total of 30 life jackets and 20 lifebuoys were donated to various boat operator unions which included the fishermen and marine transporters.” The CO said.
The outreach he added was intended to enlighten users of the waterways within the area on safety measures to be observed at sea to prevent occurrences of maritime accidents which has lead to several losses of lives and properties.
He reminded the beneficiaries that the use of safety equipment while on the waterways was required by law adding that the base would not hesitate to arrest defaulting boats and their operators for safety infractions.
Abdullahi seized the opportunity to engage with the community youths and stakeholders, while highlighting the importance of synergy and collaboration in driving development and progress in the area.
“This interaction underscored the commitment to fostering a positive relationship between the community and the base, with a focus on mutual understanding and collective growth.” He said.
He said the outreach featured lectures on survival techniques at sea including the use of life jackets and lifebuoys as well as demonstrations on the proper use of life jackets and conduct of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
One of the beneficiaries, Mr Victor Ntuen, commended the Base for the outreach and the donation of life jackets and lifebuoys to the people in the ard pledged to observe the highest standard of safety on the waterways.
