In a heroic display of maritime rescue, the Nigerian Navy successfully saved 99 individuals from drowning following a boat collision in Rivers State. The incident occurred on Tuesday, 29 April, when a market boat en route to Akuku Toru Local Government Area was involved in a head-on collision with a barge identified as ADAM (Damen Buba). The crash caused significant structural damage to the market boat, placing all passengers at imminent risk.
Swift action by the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) PATHFINDER ensured that the situation was quickly brought under control. Personnel from the ship, working from Naval Security Station 035, coordinated with four Navy gunboats to launch an effective search and rescue operation. Despite the difficult operating conditions, the naval team successfully rescued all 99 passengers from the water.
Nigerian Navy Reaffirms Commitment to Maritime Safety After Swift Rescue Operation
In addition to saving lives, the rescue team also managed to salvage most of the passengers’ goods, ensuring minimal loss of property. The prompt and coordinated response of the naval personnel played a critical role in averting what could have been a major maritime tragedy.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property at sea. Under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, the Navy continues to prioritize the security and safety of all legitimate seafarers within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
Authorities have called on the public to take note of this successful rescue operation as a testament to the Navy’s readiness and dedication to maritime safety.
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