The Nigerian Navy has successfully rescued seven persons following a boat collision at the Ogboinbiri waterways in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The incident, which involved a Tantita patrol boat and a wooden market boat, triggered an immediate search and rescue operation after a distress call was received. Personnel from Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH were swiftly deployed to the scene, where their prompt response led to the safe rescue of the victims.
According to a statement issued on March 22, 2026, by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain AA Folorunsho, the rescued individuals were evacuated to a nearby medical facility for urgent treatment. He added that efforts are ongoing to locate other persons who may still be missing.
The Navy said the operation reflects its continued commitment to safeguarding lives within Nigeria’s maritime environment, in line with the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas.
The service also highlighted its recent track record in similar operations, including the rescue of 16 passengers during a sea robbery incident in the Ibaka–Calabar Channel earlier in March 2026, as well as previous rescues involving distressed and kidnapped victims in Calabar waterways between October and December 2025.
Reaffirming its readiness, the Nigerian Navy assured the public of its commitment to rapid response in maritime emergencies, noting that it will continue to deploy necessary assets and personnel in line with global best practices.
