Navy Saves 250 Passengers from Capsized Boat in Rivers

The Nigerian Navy recently rescued over 250 passengers from a capsized boat in Rivers State. The boat, known as MV PRECIOUS EMMANUEL, departed from a market in Bayelsa State and was en route to Rivers State when it encountered stormy waters and collided with a rock, causing it to capsize.

Fortunately, there was no loss of life in the incident, thanks to the swift response of the Nigerian Navy personnel stationed along the Cawthorne Channel in Rivers State. The boat was overloaded, lacked life-saving equipment, and none of the passengers were wearing life jackets.

Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the Navy’s Director of Information, highlighted the importance of proper safety measures for maritime operators, emphasizing the need for life-saving equipment like life jackets and life buoys on board boats. He also commended the vigilant actions of the Navy personnel in ensuring the safety of the passengers.

The rescue effort aligns with the strategic directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, to maintain a safe and secure maritime environment in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

This incident underscores the ongoing need for improved safety standards in maritime transportation to prevent tragedies like boat capsizes.