The Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder, based in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, rescued 99 people from a local market boat that had been in trouble on the Bukuma River in the Degema LGA of the state.
The ‘Blood Of Jesus,’ a riverboat that was carrying people and merchandise from Port Harcourt to the state’s Akuku-Toru local government area, was involved in a collision with a barge.
Commodore Cajethan Aniaku, the Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, disclosed this in a statement in Port Harcourt made by the Base Information Officer, Lieutenant Commander Bridget Bebia.
The majority of the passengers’ belongings were also recovered and are currently safely onboard, according to Aniaku, and no lives were lost in the incident.
“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 incident occurred in 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 O035 in collaboration with other 4 Navy Gunboats launched a coordinated and effective search and rescue operation, saving all 99 passengers onboard, despite challenging condition.
“Due to the fast and organized actions of the rescue team, no fatalities or injuries were recorded.
“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.
“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.”
He said Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, will lead the Nigerian Navy in protecting mariners.