The Eastern Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy has once again demonstrated swift operational efficiency after a dramatic rescue operation saved 20 crew members from a vessel engulfed in fire along the Calabar Channel.
The life-saving mission, which took place on Monday, 22 December 2025, was executed under the strategic leadership of the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral C.D. Okehie. The operation was promptly authorized following a distress alert from the Motor Vessel CHIMBA EXPRESS.
Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) OSE, deployed from the Eastern Fleet and already on routine patrol in line with the FOC’s operational directives, responded immediately to the emergency call received at about 1300 hours. The distressed vessel was en route to Calabar from Gabon, conveying scrap materials and other logistics.
On arrival at the scene, naval personnel encountered thick smoke billowing from the vessel, indicating an intense fire outbreak. Without delay, officers and ratings of NNS OSE commenced a coordinated rescue operation, evacuating crew members who had abandoned the ship and others stranded on the weather deck.
In a display of bravery and professionalism, 20 crew members—comprising Nigerians and Cameroonians—were successfully rescued and administered first aid on the spot. However, the vessel’s Chief Engineer, who reportedly jumped into the water out of fear of a possible explosion, remains missing as search and rescue efforts continue.
The rescue mission was carried out with the support of other Nigerian Navy units operating within the Eastern axis, as well as assistance from local fishermen, highlighting strong civil-military cooperation in maritime emergency response.
Naval firefighting efforts successfully contained the blaze to the midship and aft sections of the vessel, preventing it from spreading to the forecastle where critical materials and logistics were stored. The timely deployment of naval assets by the FOC averted what could have been a catastrophic maritime disaster.
Speaking on behalf of the Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY, the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander K.K. Ahunanya, praised the gallantry and professionalism of the officers and men involved. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to maritime safety, security, and the protection of lives and property within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
The successful operation underscores the readiness, responsiveness, and humanitarian focus of the Eastern Naval Command, reinforcing public confidence in the Nigerian Navy’s ability to safeguard the nation’s waterways in line with the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff.
