Nigerian Navy Rescues Seven After Boat Collision in Bayelsa

The Nigerian Navy has confirmed the successful rescue of seven persons following a boat collision at the Ogboinbiri waterways in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The incident, which involved a Tantita patrol boat and a wooden market boat, prompted an immediate emergency response.

According to a press release issued on March 23, by Navy Captain AA Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information. The Navy said the “swift search and rescue operation” was launched after a distress call was received. Personnel from Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH were rapidly deployed to the scene, leading to the timely rescue of the victims.

The statement noted that the rescued individuals were “promptly evacuated to a nearby medical facility for urgent medical attention,” while efforts remain ongoing to locate other persons who may still be missing following the collision.

Highlighting the broader significance of the operation, the Navy emphasized that the response reflects its commitment to safeguarding lives within Nigeria’s maritime domain. It stated that the effort aligns with the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, which prioritises “not only maritime security but also the protection of lives within Nigeria’s maritime environment.”

Navy Reaffirms Commitment to Maritime Safety

The Navy also pointed to its consistent record in similar rescue missions across the country’s waterways. These include the rescue of 16 passengers during a sea robbery incident in the Ibaka–Calabar Channel in March 2026, 20 crew members from a burning vessel near Calabar in December 2025, and 10 crew members from a distressed vessel in November 2025. Additionally, 17 kidnapped victims were rescued in Calabar waterways in October 2025.

Describing these interventions as evidence of its operational readiness, the Navy said they “highlight the Nigerian Navy’s enduring role as a responsive and people-oriented maritime force.”

Reassuring the public, the service reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards in emergency response. It assured that it will continue “deploying assets and personnel for timely response to maritime emergencies in line with global best practices.”