Nigerian Navy Rescues 20 Crew Members From Burning Vessel In Calabar Waterways

The Nigerian Navy has rescued 20 crew members from a vessel that caught fire along the Calabar stretch of the Oron–Calabar waterways in Cross River State.

The incident occurred on Monday, 22 December 2025, when the Motor Vessel (MV) Chimba Express, en route from Gabon to Calabar with scrap materials and other logistics, sent a distress call.

Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) OSE, on routine patrol, responded promptly, arriving at the scene around 1:00 p.m.

According to naval sources, upon arrival, personnel observed thick smoke emanating from the vessel. Some crew members had jumped into the water to escape the flames, while others remained stranded on the exposed deck.

A coordinated rescue operation was launched, using life buoys and other emergency equipment, which resulted in the successful evacuation of 20 crew members. First aid was administered to those rescued.

The MV Chimba Express had a total of 21 crew members, including 14 Nigerians and seven Cameroonians.

The vessel’s Chief Engineer reportedly jumped into the water fearing an imminent explosion and remains missing, with search and rescue efforts continuing.

Personnel from NNS OSE were supported by teams from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ibaka, Naval Security Station 030 Houseboat, and local fishermen.

Portable pumps were also deployed to contain the fire, which affected the midship and aft sections of the vessel.

Officials noted that the operation demonstrated the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to safeguarding seafarers and maritime assets within the country’s territorial waters.

The rescue was conducted under the strategic guidance of the Chief of the Naval Staff’s to build a modern, agile, and professional naval force capable of protecting Nigeria’s maritime waters.

In a related development, earlier in April, a LagFerry vessel, Igbega Eko, caught fire while en route to Victoria Island, resulting in minor injuries to four passengers.

Eyewitnesses reported a loud bang prior to the vessel being engulfed in flames, forcing commuters to scramble for safety.

References: The Guardian, arise news

Source: Maritime Shipping News