The Nigerian Navy executed a swift and successful rescue operation, saving 20 individuals from a distressed vessel that erupted in flames along the busy Calabar waterways. The dramatic incident underscores the constant dangers faced by seafarers and the critical role of naval patrols in safeguarding Nigeria's territorial waters.
Swift Response to Distress Call
The emergency unfolded on December 22, 2025, when the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) OSE, engaged in a routine patrol, intercepted a urgent distress signal. The call for help came from the Motor Vessel (MV) Chimba Express, which was travelling from Gabon to the port of Calabar. The ship was carrying a cargo of scrap materials and other logistics supplies.
According to an official statement released by Lieutenant Commander Kelechi Ahunanya, the Base Operations Officer of NNS VICTORY, the distress call was received at approximately 1:00 pm. The naval patrol ship immediately altered course and raced to the reported location. Upon arrival, the crew was met with a alarming scene: thick, dark smoke was pouring from the vessel, indicating a serious fire on board.
Coordinated Rescue and Firefighting Efforts
Naval personnel launched into immediate action, initiating a dual operation focused on both saving lives and containing the blaze. The rescue team employed life buoys and other emergency gear to pull crew members to safety. Some had already abandoned the burning ship, while others were found stranded on the deck, unable to escape the encroaching flames and smoke.
All 20 rescued crew members were given immediate first aid on site. The vessel had a total complement of 21 seafarers, made up of 14 Nigerians and 7 Cameroonians. Tragically, one individual, identified as the vessel's Chief Engineer, is still missing. Lieutenant Commander Ahunanya reported that the engineer jumped into the water, fearing an imminent explosion as the fire raged. Search and rescue operations are actively ongoing to locate him.
The firefighting operation saw NNS OSE deploy portable pumps in a bid to control the flames, which had taken hold in the midship and aft sections of the MV Chimba Express. The naval team received crucial support from personnel attached to the Forward Operating Base in Ibaka, the Naval Security Station 030 Houseboat, and even local fishermen who joined the effort.
Navy Reaffirms Commitment to Maritime Safety
This incident highlights the ever-present risks in maritime commerce and transport. In its statement, the Nigerian Navy reiterated its unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety of all seafarers and the protection of maritime assets within the nation's waters. This mission is a core part of the operational mandate handed down by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas.
This is not an isolated act of heroism by the naval force. Just the previous month, in November 2025, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny rescued 11 passengers from a sinking speedboat on the Bonny River in Rivers State. That boat had suffered an engine failure, leading to a dangerous ingress of water. The passengers were safely debriefed and handed over to the Marine Police, demonstrating the Navy's consistent readiness to respond to diverse emergencies at sea.
