In a significant maritime development, the Nigerian Navy, NN, has transferred a fishing trawler named MFV Lady Jessica II and its 13 crew members to the Federal Department of Fisheries in Bayelsa State. The trawler was apprehended on December 11 by the Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Formoso for engaging in unauthorized trawling within an area designated for artisanal fishing boats.
The naval authorities made it clear that the trawler was captured at a location less than five nautical miles from the shore near the Pennington River entrance, and it was not operating its Automatic Identification System, a violation of the Sea Fisheries Act of 1992. Captain Murtala Rogo, represented by Commander Dantani Bukar, performed the handover ceremony at the Forward Operating Base, Egwema, Brass.
During the ceremony, Captain Murtala Rogo emphasized that such maritime infractions would not be tolerated by the Nigerian Navy. He sternly warned all mariners to strictly abide by maritime laws and urged fishing companies and agents to heed the instructions issued by the FDF in Form B. Commander Dantani Bukar reiterated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to enforce maritime regulations vigorously and urged vessel crew members to adhere to state laws to avoid any transgressions.
This decisive action by the Nigerian Navy sends a clear message that the country is unwavering in its efforts to police and uphold maritime laws. The Gulf of Guinea, a crucial maritime region, will not be a playground for unauthorized activities. This development underlines the importance of compliance with regulations in the Nigerian maritime domain and serves as a reminder to all stakeholders of the uncompromising stance against illegal fishing and maritime violations.
As the trawler and its crew are handed over to the authorities, this gesture reinforces the Nigerian Navy’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of the country’s waters and safeguarding the interests of lawful maritime operators. It also highlights the collaborative effort between the Nigerian Navy and relevant government agencies in ensuring strict adherence to maritime laws.
The handover of the seized trawler MFV Lady Jessica II and its crew members underscores the critical role of effective maritime governance and underscores the need for all stakeholders to operate within the bounds of the law. This incident serves as a crucial reminder for all maritime operators, emphasizing the imperative of compliance with regulations to foster a sustainable and law-abiding maritime environment in Nigeria.
