The Nigerian Navy has charged fishermen operating within the Bonny Channel and other areas to take their safety within the maritime environment seriously while reassuring them of security as they chase their livelihoods.
Commanding Officer of the Forward Operating Base Bonny, Captain Chukwuemeka Umeh gave this charge on Thursday, July 23, 2026 during a meeting with the Bonny Indigenous Fishermen Association (BIFA) in Bonny, Rivers State.
Represented by his Executive Officer, Commander Ajide, the FOB Commanding Officer urged them to adhere to extant maritime protocols such as maintaining a safe distance from large vessels, tug boats, barges and commercial traffic, and ensuring seaworthiness of their fishing boats before embarking fishing expeditions.
He also admonished them to report emergencies to the relevant authorities immediately they happen, avoid overloading of boats, avoid fishing during severe weather, strong currents, heavy waves and poor visibility, and desist from alcohol consumption and substance abuse during fishing expeditions.
He stressed that the mandate of the Nigerian Navy inculcates assuring security in the nation’s maritime domain and making it safe for economic activities to thrive, appealing to them to support the Navy, other military establishments and security agencies to continue to provide an atmosphere of peace.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Bonny Indigenous Fishermen Association (BIFA), Promise Bristol thanked the FOB for the meeting, noting that it provides a veritable platform for discussions on mutually beneficial initiatives, as well as issues related to their businesses.
He enjoined the fisherfolks to comply with maritime regulations related to the fishing business, observing that the importance of safety and security while at sea cannot be overemphasized, imploring members of BIFA to align with the aims and objectives of the association, assuring the FOB of the cooperation of the group.
On his part, Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Jonathan Hart commended the Navy for conceptualizing the engagement with the fishermen in the area, observing, however, that the disposition of some fisherfolks towards security and safety issues.
Also speaking, the Officer-in-charge of the Marine Police, Bonny Division, JohnKelly Anyating, who was represented by Chikere, expressed over the meeting, noting that it is a step in the right direction, saying the safety of seafarers, especially, the fishing community, remains priority to the maritime security agencies.
Highlight of the meeting was a special presentation on Marine Services and Prevention of Collision in Bonny Channel by the Assistant Base Operations Officer of FOB Bonny, Lt S Muhammad.