The Nigerian Navy, working with the Abedigbene fishing community in Bayelsa, rescued seven passengers from drowning after a boat mishap on Thursday.
The rescued passengers are the Bayelsa Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr Ebieri Jones, a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) official, and five others.
This information is from an operational report by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Capt. Abiodun Folorunsho, released to the NAN on Saturday in Abuja.
Folorunsho stated that personnel from Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO, along with local divers, conducted the rescue in the Abedigbene waters of Brass Local Government Area.
“The incident involved a passenger boat travelling from Yenagoa to Akassa with eight people on board.
“After receiving a distress report from a local fisherman, personnel at Labrador Lagosgbene Houseboat quickly mobilised to the scene and began search and rescue operations.
“With the su“With support from community members, the survivors were located and brought to the houseboat, where they received first aid. Preliminary assessments showed no visible injuries,” he said. spokesman added that the one passenger, identified as a police officer, remained missing and assured that search and rescue efforts had continued to locate the officer.
He explained that on Friday, the commissioner and the six other survivors were transported to Yenagoa to reunite with their families. To Folorunsho, the operation highlights the Navy’s commitment to maritime safety, protecting lives, and responding promptly to emergencies within its area of responsibility.
He quoted the Commanding Officer, FOB FORMOSO, Capt. Sunday Haruna, who commended the personnel for their prompt response and professionalism and acknowledged the invaluable support of the local divers and host community. “The successful rescue further underscores the importance of collaboration between security agencies and coastal communities in strengthening maritime safety and protecting lives,” he said.
