Nigerian Navy rescues over 250 persons from capsized passenger boat in Rivers

The Nigerian Navy (NN), under the auspices of Naval Security Station (NSS) 023 stationed along the Cawthorne Channel in Rivers State, executed a successful rescue operation on the evening of April 28, 2024.

Over 250 individuals were safely rescued from a capsized passenger boat amidst adverse conditions.

According to a statement released by Director Naval Information, Commodore A Adams-Aliu, the distressed vessel, identified as MV PRECIOUS EMMANUEL, departed from a local market in the Sangana area of Bayelsa State en route to Rivers State.

It encountered turbulent waters during its journey, leading to a collision with a submerged obstacle that compromised its structural integrity, resulting in the capsizing.

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The vessel, a locally constructed 3-deck wooden craft commonly referred to as a “Large Cotonou Boat,” lacked essential safety equipment and none of its occupants were equipped with life jackets.

Despite these challenges, the swift and adept response of NN personnel averted any loss of life.

Commodore A Adams-Aliu emphasized the crucial role played by vigilant naval personnel in adhering to the rescue mission promptly.

This operational success aligns with the overarching directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, which prioritizes ensuring a secure and safe maritime environment within Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

Furthermore, he underscored the significance of equipping maritime vessels with essential safety gear such as life jackets and buoys, emphasizing their pivotal role in preserving lives at sea.

He assured the public of the NN’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain, extending from its inland waterways to the outer boundaries of the Exclusive Economic Zone, thereby fostering an environment conducive to legitimate maritime activities.