The Nigerian Navy has successfully rescued 20 crew members from the motor vessel Chimba Express after a fire broke out onboard the ship near the entrance of the Calabar Channel. The incident occurred on December 22, 2025, around 12:45 p.m., prompting a swift response from naval forces to ensure the safety of those on board.
The fire is believed to have originated from an electrical fault in an appliance within the engine room, leading to the rapid spread of flames. A distress call was received by the Nigerian Navy around 1:00 p.m., and gunboats along with the Nigerian Navy Ship Ose were immediately deployed to the scene, located close to Ibaka off the coast of Calabar. Naval assets arrived within 25 to 30 minutes, where they conducted coordinated rescue operations.
All 20 rescued crew members are currently undergoing medical evaluation at the Nigerian Navy Reference Hospital before being handed over to the Nigerian Ports Authority for reunification with their families.
No injuries were reported among the rescued individuals. However one crew member jumped overboard prior to the Navy's arrival and remains missing. Search efforts are ongoing to locate the individual. A security boat has been stationed at the site to safeguard the vessel's remains until it can be evacuated.
Lieutenant Commander Kelechi Ahunanya, Base Operations Officer of NNS Victory, commented on the operation: "The Nigerian Navy's prompt response underscores our commitment to maritime safety and security. This is not the first time we've handled such emergencies—our Forward Operating Base in Ibaka has a proven track record. We remain ready to assist in any distress situations at sea."
One of the rescued crew members, Sully Jean-Blaise, the second captain of the Chimba Express, shared his account: "The fire started around 12:45 p.m., and we worked alongside the Navy gunboat to manage the situation. Their quick arrival saved lives."
The Nigerian Navy continues to monitor the area and urges all maritime operators to adhere to safety protocols to prevent similar incidents. For more information, contact the Nigerian Navy Public Affairs Office.