The Nigerian Navy has handed over two suspected stowaways rescued from a merchant vessel, MV Seaspan Lahore, to the Nigeria Immigration Service in Lagos.
The handover, carried out on Monday, 23 March 2026, was conducted by personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft to officials of the Lagos Ports/Marine Command of the immigration service in Apapa.
According to naval authorities, the suspects were discovered in the early hours of Thursday, 19 March 2026, during routine security checks while the vessel was navigating near the Lagos Fairway Buoy. The individuals were found concealed in the ship’s rudder compartment an extremely hazardous location and were subsequently rescued and taken to NNS BEECROFT for preliminary investigation.
Initial findings identified the suspects as Abdullahi Yakubu, 36, described as a repeat offender, and Omoniyi Afotona, 25. Both are believed to have gained unauthorized access to the vessel at Apapa Port prior to its departure.
Naval officials emphasized that stowing away on ships is both illegal and life-threatening, urged young Nigerians to pursue lawful means of migration. They also called on parents, guardians, and community leaders to educate youths on the dangers associated with such actions.
The Commander of NNS BEECROFT, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, reiterated the Navy’s commitment to maritime security, noting that the command remains aligned with the strategic vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Idi Abbas, to maintain a professional and responsive naval force capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and supporting national security objectives.
He further appealed to the public to remain vigilant and support ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities within the country’s maritime environment.
