The Nigerian Naval Ship (NNS) Pathfinder in Port Harcourt has successfully rescued 99 passengers who had a boat accident on the Bukuma River in the Degama Local Government Area of Rivers.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, when a local market ship (called “Blood of Jesus”) collided with a barge, while transferring millions of naira passengers and merchandise from Harcourt Port to Akukuku-Toru Lga.
This was provided by Lieutenant Bridget Bebia, a basic information officer, to a journalist in Port Harcourt.
According to Bebia, commander of NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Cajethan Aniaku pointed out that the rescue operation was carried out by crew members.
Commodore Aniaku confirmed that there was no life in the accident and that the goods of most passengers had been recovered, and are currently well fixed on the ship.
“On April 29, 2025, about 1055 hours, the barge Adam (Damen Buba) collided head-on with the market ship heading to Akuku-Toru LGA, causing significant structural damage to the market ship,” the statement said.
“The incident occurred in the Tuma area, about 300 meters from Bukuma in the Digma Local Government area to Naval Security Station (NSS) 035.
“The Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder personnel deployed to NSS 035 in collaboration with four other naval gunboats, launching a coordinated and effective search and rescue operation that saved all 99 passengers despite challenging conditions.
“Diet or injury was not recorded due to the rapid action of the rescue team.”
Aniaku praised the personnel for their heroic courage in rescuing all passengers and preventing potential maritime disasters.
“Our personnel acted promptly to ensure successful rescue of all passengers and prevent potential maritime disasters. The outstanding calm and heroic performance they have shown throughout the rescue efforts deserves credit.”
“Their timely intervention and prompt response ensured that there was no life and no loss of life in the incident and protected the threatened valuables and property.”
NNS Pathfinder Commander Commodore Cajethan Nnabuchi Aniaku said that under the leadership of Navy Chief of Staff, Deputy Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla (Amperiralty Medal), the Nigerian Navy will continue to ensure the safety and safety of maritime personnel in the maritime field.
