The Nigerian Navy said search efforts for the missing crew member are ongoing as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
By SaharaReporters
The Nigerian Navy has confirmed that it rescued 20 crew members from the foreign vessel MV Chimba Express following a fire incident along the Calabar Channel.
According to the Navy, in a statement signed by Lieutenant Commander Kelechi Ahunanya, who is the Base Operations Officer of NNS Victory, “The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) OSE on Monday, 22 December 2025, rescued 20 crew members from Motor Vessel (MV) Chimba Express following a fire incident along the Calabar Channel.”
The incident occurred while the naval vessel was on routine patrol duties. “NNS OSE, while on routine patrol, responded to a distress call at about 1300 hours from the vessel, which was en route from Gabon to Calabar with scrap materials and other logistics. The vessel was crewed by 21 persons, comprising 14 Nigerians and 7 Cameroonians.”
Upon arrival at the scene, naval personnel observed that the situation had become critical.
“On arrival, thick smoke was observed emanating from the vessel, prompting immediate rescue operations. Crew members who had abandoned ship, as well as those stranded on deck, were rescued using life buoys. Twenty crew members were successfully rescued and administered first aid.”
However, one crew member remains unaccounted for. “The Chief Engineer, who reportedly jumped overboard due to fear of an explosion, remains missing, and a search and rescue operation is ongoing.”
The Navy noted that the rescue and firefighting efforts were supported by other units and local actors. “Personnel from Forward Operating Base IBAKA, Naval Security Station 030 Houseboat, and local fishermen supported the operation. NNS OSE also deployed portable pumps to combat the fire, which affected the midship and aft sections of the vessel.”
Speaking on behalf of the Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship VICTORY, the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander K. K. Ahunanya, reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to the safety of seafarers and maritime assets, in line with the Chief of the Naval Staff’s Mission.
The Nigerian Navy said search efforts for the missing crew member are ongoing as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.