Nigeria Navy ship NNS Pathfinder came to the rescue of 99 passengers aboard a market boat popularly known in the area as “Blood of Jesus” after it collided an oil barge on the Ukuma River, in Degema local government area of Rivers State.
The passengers were at the risk of drowning but for the timely intervention of the Navy ship. The incident occurred Tuesday with the boat ferrying the passengers with goods worth millions of naira from Port Harcourt to Akuku-Toru.
“On 29 April 2025, at about 1055 hours, a barge ADAM (Damen Buba), was involved in a head-on collision with a market boat en route to Akuku Toru LGA resulting in significant structural damage to the market boat,” said a statement by made available to the media by Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder, Commodore Cajethan Nnabuchi Aniaku
“The incident occurred in Tuma area, about 300 meters from Naval Security Station (NSS) 035 along the Bukuma, in Degema local government area.
“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.
“Due to the fast and organized actions of the rescue team, no fatalities or injuries were recorded.”
Aniaku commended the personnel for their bravery in rescue of all passengers and preventing 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.
“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.”
