Nigerian Navy rescues 99 passengers in Rivers boat accident

Thursday, May 1, 2025 -  The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder in Port Harcourt has successfully rescued 99 passengers who were involved in a boat accident on the Bukuma River in the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 when the local market boat, named ‘Blood Of Jesus’, collided with a barge while conveying passengers and goods worth millions of naira from Port Harcourt to Akuku-Toru LGA.

This was made available to newsmen in Port Harcourt by the Base Information Officer, Lieutenant Commander Bridget Bebia.

According to Bebia, the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, noted that the rescue operation was carried out by the personnel of the ship.

Commodore Aniaku confirmed that no life was lost in the accident and that the majority of the passengers’ goods were also recovered and are presently well secured onboard.

“On 29 April 2025, at about 1055 hours, a barge ADAM (Damen Buba) was involved in a head-on collision with a market boat en route to Akuku-Toru LGA, resulting in significant structural damage to the market boat,” the statement read.

"The incident occurred in the Tuma area, about 300 meters from Naval Security Station (NSS) 035 along the Bukuma, in Degema Local Government Area.

"The Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder personnel deployed to NSS 035, in collaboration with four other Navy Gunboats, launched a coordinated and effective search and rescue operation, saving all 99 passengers onboard despite challenging conditions.

"Due to the fast and organised actions of the rescue team, no fatalities or injuries were recorded.”

Aniaku commended the personnel for their bravery in the rescue of all passengers and for preventing a potential maritime disaster.

“Our personnel acted swiftly, ensuring the successful rescue of all passengers and preventing a potential maritime disaster. Their exceptional composure and bravery displayed throughout the rescue effort are worthy of commendation,” he said.

“Their timely intervention and prompt response ensured that no lives were lost in the incident, as well as the preservation of valuable goods and properties under threat.”

The NNS Pathfinder Commander, Commodore Cajethan Nnabuchi Aniaku, stated that the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla (Admiralty Medal), will continue to ensure the security and safety of mariners within the maritime domain.