Nigerian Navy Launches Rescue Operation After Passenger Boat Capsizes In Bayelsa Waters

The Nigerian Navy, working alongside local divers and members of the Abedigbene Fishing Community, has rescued seven passengers following a boat mishap in the waters around Abedigbene, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the incident involved a passenger boat travelling from Yenagoa to Akassa with eight people on board. The accident occurred on November 5, 2026, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation by naval personnel.

The Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, disclosed that personnel of the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) FORMOSO were alerted to the incident through a distress report from a local fisherman.

Following the report, naval personnel stationed at Labrador Lagosgbene Houseboat swiftly mobilised to the scene and commenced rescue operations with assistance from local divers and members of the fishing community.

Among those rescued was the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr Ebieri Jones, alongside an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and five other passengers.

The survivors were subsequently taken to the naval houseboat, where they received first aid. Preliminary medical assessments reportedly showed that none of them had sustained visible injuries.

However, one passenger, identified as a police officer, remained missing after the rescue operation. The Navy confirmed that search efforts were ongoing to locate the missing officer.

On November 6, the commissioner and the six other rescued passengers were transported to Yenagoa, where they were reunited with their respective families.

The Navy described the successful rescue as a demonstration of its commitment to maritime safety, the protection of lives and prompt responses to emergencies within its operational area.

The Commanding Officer of FOB FORMOSO commended the naval personnel for their swift response and professionalism, while also acknowledging the significant contributions of the local divers and members of the host community.

The operation further highlighted the importance of cooperation between security agencies and coastal communities in responding to maritime emergencies and improving safety across Nigeria’s waterways.