Nigerian Navy Saves 20 Lives as Fire Engulfs Vessel on Calabar–Oron Waterway
In a dramatic display of maritime professionalism and rapid-response capability, the Nigerian Navy on Monday rescued 20 crew members from a vessel that caught fire along the Calabar section of the busy Oron–Calabar waterway in Cross River State.
The incident involved Motor Vessel (MV) Chimba Express, a commercial ship en route from Gabon to Calabar, laden with scrap materials and other logistics. The emergency unfolded around 1:00 p.m. when the vessel transmitted a distress call after a fire broke out onboard, threatening lives, cargo, and the surrounding marine environment.
Swift Naval Intervention
Responding promptly to the distress signal, the Nigerian Navy Ship NNS OSE, which was on routine patrol duties, diverted immediately to the scene. According to an official statement issued by the Base Operations Officer of Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY, Lieutenant Commander Kelechi Ahunanya, naval personnel arrived to find thick smoke billowing from the midship and aft sections of the vessel—an ominous sign of a rapidly escalating onboard fire.
Without delay, the naval crew commenced coordinated rescue operations. Crew members who had abandoned the vessel in panic, as well as others trapped on deck, were pulled to safety using life buoys and other emergency equipment. Their swift actions prevented what could have been a far more catastrophic loss of life.
Lives Saved, One Still Missing
Out of the 21 crew members onboard MV Chimba Express, 20 were successfully rescued and administered first aid by naval medical personnel. The rescued crew comprised 14 Nigerians and seven Cameroonians, underscoring the international character of maritime commerce within the Gulf of Guinea corridor.
However, tragedy still looms as the Chief Engineer of the vessel remains missing. According to reports, he reportedly jumped into the water in fear of a possible explosion as the fire intensified. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with naval units maintaining vigilance in hopes of locating the missing crew member.
Joint Effort on the Waterways
The rescue operation was bolstered by support from personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka, Naval Security Station 030 Houseboat, as well as local fishermen who offered assistance within the challenging waterway terrain. This collaboration highlights the critical synergy between security agencies and local maritime communities in emergency situations.
To prevent the fire from spreading further, NNS OSE deployed portable firefighting pumps, working tirelessly to suppress the blaze that had engulfed key sections of the vessel.
A Testament to Maritime Security Commitment
Lieutenant Commander Ahunanya reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to the safety of seafarers and the protection of maritime assets within Nigeria’s territorial waters. He emphasized that the operation aligns squarely with the strategic mission and vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, which prioritizes maritime safety, security, and rapid humanitarian response.
Broader Implications
This incident once again brings to the fore the critical role of the Nigerian Navy in safeguarding Nigeria’s inland and coastal waterways, which serve as lifelines for trade, transportation, and regional integration. In an era where maritime risks—from accidents to insecurity—remain prevalent, the successful rescue underscores the importance of sustained investment in naval patrols, equipment, and personnel training.
As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, Nigerians and the international maritime community alike are reminded that vigilance, preparedness, and swift action at sea often make the difference between disaster and survival.
Global Gberi Media International Blog will continue to monitor developments, particularly regarding the ongoing search for the missing crew member.
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