Quick rescue at sea: Nigerian navy saves 20 crew from burning vessel Off Calabar

Incidence - Recently On 22 December 2025, a major fire broke out aboard the vessel Chimba Express while transiting the Oron–Calabar waterways in Cross River State, Nigeria.

The vessel was enroute from Gabon to Calabar, carrying scrap materials.

The Fire broke and afternoon and Nigerian Navy Ship NNS OSE received the emergency alert at around 1:00 p.m. and was very quick to respond and reach the location.

In the rescue operation 20 of the 21 crew members were successfully rescued from the burning ship.

One crew member (Chief Engineer) is reported missing who jumped into the water after fire engulfed the vessel.

Nigerian Navy Ship NNS OSE had the naval team based at the Forward Operating Base Ibaka and Naval Security Station 030 Houseboat.

The local fishermen also supported in the rescue.

Vessel details

• Name - CHIMBA EXPRESS

• Flag – Cameroon

• Detail of vessel - Passenger Landing Craft

Impact

One crew member (Chief Engineer) is reported missing who jumped into the water after fire engulfed the vessel. The search operation is going on for him.

The vessel fire was extinguished after a lot of efforts.

image credit:nationalaccordnewspaper.com