The Nigerian Navy has once again demonstrated its swift response capability and commitment to saving lives at sea. On Friday, November 7, 2025, personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA rescued ten crew members from a distressed vessel, MV SEMA III, which was en route to Calabar from Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
According to a statement signed by Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, the rescue followed a distress call received around 2000 hours, prompting the immediate deployment of a naval gunboat equipped with a submersible pump.
“Upon arrival, the team discovered the vessel was taking in water and promptly evacuated all occupants,” the statement said. The rescued individuals comprised one Cameroonian, one Equatorial Guinean, and eight Nigerians. They were safely conveyed to FOB IBAKA, where they were “received, debriefed, and catered for” until Saturday, November 8, 2025.
Nigerian Navy Demonstrates Commitment to Maritime Safety
The Master of MV SEMA III expressed profound gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for what he described as a timely intervention and exceptional professionalism, noting that the swift response averted a potential tragedy at sea.
Commodore Adams-Aliu added that the successful operation underscores the renewed efforts of the Nigerian Navy under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal). He emphasized that the Navy remains committed to ensuring maritime safety, protection of critical national assets, and the promotion of lawful economic activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
“The Nigerian Navy will continue to enhance its operational readiness and responsiveness to safeguard lives and legitimate activities at sea,” the statement concluded.
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