Nigerian Navy Rescues 10 Crew Members from Distressed Vessel Enroute Calabar

The Nigerian Navy has successfully rescued 10 crew members from the distressed vessel MV SEMA III, which was traveling from Malabo, Equatorial Guinea to Calabar, Nigeria, the Navy announced on Monday.

In a statement, Director of Naval Information, Commodore Ayiwuyor Adams-Aliu, said the operation demonstrated the Navy’s swift response capabilities and commitment to saving lives at sea.

The rescue was carried out by personnel from Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA on Friday, following a distress call received at 2000 hours.

“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,” Adams-Aliu stated.

The rescued crew included eight Nigerians, one Cameroonian, and one Equatorial Guinean, who were later debriefed and provided with care at FOB IBAKA until Saturday.

The Master of MV SEMA III expressed deep gratitude to the Nigerian Navy for the timely and professional rescue.

Adams-Aliu emphasized that the successful operation highlights the Navy’s ongoing efforts to ensure maritime safety, protect critical national assets, and promote lawful economic activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain.