The Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base (FOB), Ibaka, on Friday, donated 30 lifejackets and 20 life rings to water transport operators in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State.

The commanding officer, Aliyu Abdullahi, said during the donation at Ibaka, Mbo Local Government Area on Friday, that the gesture was to promote waterway safety.

Mr Abdullahi said at the outreach titled: “Personal Survival Techniques for Improved Survivability at Sea” that water transport required strict adherence to safety measures.

He said the donation was part of the navy’s non-kinetic operations to strengthen civil-military relations and improve the well-being of members of its host communities.

“Today, we have donated a total of 30 life jackets and 20 life buoys to boat operators, fishermen and marine transporters.

“This exercise is to enlighten water transport users within the FOB Ibaka area on the need to be safety conscious while travelling.

“There are safety measures to be observed to prevent accidents; these measures will help to prevent loss of lives and property,” he said.

The commanding officer used the event to urge community members to support the navy with credible intelligence to fight crime and insecurity.

“We are stakeholders; we need to promote cordial relationships. We should also work together to promote peace, security and development,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Victor Ntuen, a boat operator, commended the navy for the gesture, describing it as a good way to promote water transport safety.

(NAN)