Personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder have successfully rescued 99 passengers from a distressed local market boat on the Ukuma River in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. The incident occurred on Tuesday when the boat, named ‘Blood Of Jesus’, collided with a barge while en route to Akuku-Toru Local Government Area from Port Harcourt. The vessel was carrying passengers and goods worth millions of naira.
The Commander of NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Cajethan Nnabuchi Aniaku, confirmed the incident in a statement released on Wednesday by the Base Information Officer, Lieutenant Commander Bridget Bebia. Commodore Aniaku stated that there were no casualties and that the majority of the passengers’ goods were recovered and are currently secured.
According to the statement, the collision between the barge, ADAM (Damen Buba), and the market boat happened at approximately 10:55 AM on April 29, 2025, in the Tuma area, about 300 meters from Naval Security Station (NSS) 035 along the Bukuma waterway. Upon receiving news of the incident, personnel from NSS 035, along with four Navy gunboats, swiftly launched a coordinated search and rescue operation.
“The Nigerian Navy Ship Pathfinder personnel deployed to NSS O035 in collaboration with four other 4 Navy Gunboats launched a coordinated and effective search and rescue operation, saving all 99 passengers onboard, despite challenging conditions,” the statement read. “Due to the fast and organized actions of the rescue team, no fatalities or injuries were recorded.”
Commodore Aniaku lauded the Navy personnel for their swift and courageous response, which prevented a potential maritime disaster. “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,” he said. “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.”
The NNS Pathfinder Commander further reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Navy, under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla (Admiralty Medal), to ensuring the safety and security of mariners within the nation’s maritime domain.
