Odita Sunday 
Nigerian Navy @70: FOB FORMOSO Distributes Free Life Jackets After Fatal Boat Mishaps in Bayelsa
By Odita Sunday
Residents of riverine communities in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State received free life jackets from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO on Sunday as the Nigerian Navy intensified efforts to curb recurring boat accidents and promote safety on inland waterways.
The initiative, which formed part of activities marking the Nigerian Navy’s 70th Anniversary Celebration, also featured free boat transportation services for members of the host communities.
Speaking during the exercise held on 25 May 2026, the Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO, Capt SK HARUNA, stressed the importance of safety in water transportation, describing it as a critical means of movement for people living in riverine areas.
“Water transportation remains an essential means of movement in our riverine communities. However, safety must always remain our top priority,” he said.
Capt HARUNA explained that the distribution of life jackets was aimed at encouraging safe boating practices and reducing avoidable accidents across the waterways. According to him, the intervention reflects the commitment of the Nigerian Navy and relevant stakeholders towards safeguarding lives on inland waterways.
The Commanding Officer also referenced recent boat mishaps in Brass which reportedly claimed the lives of some passengers, noting that many of the incidents could possibly have been prevented if proper safety precautions had been taken.
He stated that the unfortunate incidents strongly influenced the decision of FOB FORMOSO to provide free life jackets to members of the host communities in order to boost safety awareness and encourage regular use of safety equipment during water transportation.
The event attracted several dignitaries and stakeholders including the Divisional Police Officer of Brass, CSP Okifo Peter, Chairman TWON Brass Council of Elders Chief Emmanuel Jacob, and the Station Security Officer OANDO Brass Terminal, Mr Yusuf Ahmed, alongside other community representatives.
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