The Nigerian Navy has rescued seven persons following a boat collision in the Ogboinbiri waterways of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.
The Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, confirmed the rescue in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja. He explained that the operation followed a distress call after a collision between a Tantita patrol boat and a wooden market boat.
Personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH were immediately deployed to the scene, successfully rescuing the victims. The rescued individuals were promptly evacuated to a nearby medical facility for urgent attention, while search efforts continue for any other missing persons.
Capt. Folorunsho noted that the operation underscores the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding lives within Nigeria’s maritime environment. He emphasized that the rescue aligns with the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, which prioritizes maritime security and human safety.
He highlighted the Navy’s recent search and rescue successes, including the rescue of 16 passengers during a sea robbery incident in the Ibaka–Calabar Channel in March. Other notable operations include saving 20 crew members from a burning vessel near Calabar in December 2025, and rescuing 10 crew members from a distressed vessel in November 2025. Additionally, 17 kidnapped victims were rescued from Calabar waterways in October 2025.
The Navy reassured the public of its readiness to sustain rapid response to maritime emergencies, emphasizing that operations are conducted in line with global best practices.
Capt. Folorunsho concluded that the agency remains committed to protecting lives and property in Nigeria’s waterways, highlighting the importance of continuous vigilance and preparedness to respond effectively to maritime incidents.
