Abuja, November 10, 2025 — The Nigerian Navy has rescued 10 crew members from a distressed vessel, MV SEMA III, which was en route to Calabar from Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
Director of Naval Information, Commodore Ayiwuyor Adams-Aliu, announced this in a statement on Monday in Abuja, describing the operation as a demonstration of the Navy’s swift response capability and commitment to saving lives at sea.
According to him, the rescue was conducted by personnel of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA on Friday, following a distress call received around 8:00 p.m.
“A naval gunboat equipped with a submersible pump was immediately deployed. On arrival, the team discovered the vessel taking in water and promptly evacuated all occupants, comprising one Cameroonian, one Equatorial Guinean, and eight Nigerians,” Adams-Aliu said.
The rescued crew members were safely brought to FOB IBAKA, where they were received, debriefed, and provided with care until Saturday.
“The Master of MV SEMA III expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for its timely intervention and exceptional professionalism,” he added.
Adams-Aliu said the successful operation reflects the Navy’s renewed efforts to enhance maritime safety, protect national assets, and support lawful economic activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain.
In a related development, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, recently approved the appointment and redeployment of 65 Rear Admirals across various commands, institutions, and departments of the Nigerian Navy and Armed Forces — part of broader efforts to strengthen operational efficiency and security coordination.
Leave a Reply