Nigerian Navy Rescues Three Passengers From Capsized Boat In Delta, Averts Tragedy During Heavy Rainstorm

Nigerian Navy Rescues Three Passengers From Capsized Boat In Delta, Averts Tragedy During Heavy Rainstorm

June 23, 2026

The Nigerian Navy has once again demonstrated its commitment to protecting lives and ensuring safety across Nigeria's waterways after successfully rescuing three passengers from a capsized boat along the Bennett River in Warri, Delta State.

The dramatic rescue operation, carried out by personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) DELTA, prevented what could have turned into a fatal maritime disaster following a sudden rainstorm that generated dangerous waves and caused the boat to overturn.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Naval Information, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho, the rescue occurred during a routine maritime security patrol conducted by naval personnel assigned to safeguard the nation's inland waterways.

The statement revealed that while conducting their regular patrol operations, officers aboard NNS DELTA noticed signs of distress, including passengers struggling in the water and debris floating along the river, indicating that a serious maritime emergency was unfolding.

Without wasting time, the naval team immediately launched a search and rescue mission, navigating the challenging conditions to reach the victims before the situation escalated further.

The three passengers were successfully pulled from the water and several valuable belongings were also recovered from the wreckage of the capsized vessel.

Following the rescue, the victims were promptly evacuated to the NNS DELTA Sick Bay, where they received emergency medical treatment and observation. After doctors confirmed that their conditions had stabilised, they were discharged.

Preliminary investigations conducted by the Navy indicated that adverse weather conditions were responsible for the accident. Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds and rough waves reportedly destabilised the boat, leading to the unfortunate incident.

Speaking on the operation, Navy Captain Abiodun Folorunsho said the successful intervention underscores the Nigerian Navy's growing role not only as a maritime security institution but also as a vital emergency response agency dedicated to saving lives.

He explained that persistent naval presence on the country's waterways has become increasingly important in responding swiftly to emergencies and protecting citizens who rely on water transportation for their daily activities.

“The successful rescue underscores the Nigerian Navy’s dual role as both a maritime security force and a first responder in emergencies within the maritime domain. It further highlights the importance of persistent naval presence and routine patrols in enhancing maritime safety, protecting lives, and providing rapid assistance to waterway users in distress,” he stated.

The Navy reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe, secure and conducive maritime environment for all legitimate economic activities across Nigeria's coastal communities and inland waterways.

The incident has also renewed conversations about the dangers associated with water transportation during extreme weather conditions, particularly during the rainy season when sudden storms and strong currents significantly increase the risk of accidents.

Maritime safety experts have repeatedly advised boat operators and passengers to pay close attention to weather forecasts, avoid overloading vessels, ensure the availability of life jackets and suspend journeys whenever weather conditions become hazardous.

Residents and stakeholders have commended the swift response of the naval personnel, describing the operation as a clear demonstration of professionalism, preparedness and dedication to public safety.

The latest rescue operation adds to a growing list of humanitarian interventions by the Nigerian Navy aimed at safeguarding lives, combating maritime threats and strengthening confidence in Nigeria's waterways transportation system.

As rainfall intensifies across several parts of the country, authorities are expected to continue sensitising communities, boat operators and travellers on the importance of adhering to safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.