The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the recent collision involving a container vessel and an oil tanker at Bonny Anchorage in Rivers State, describing the incident as a serious maritime casualty requiring extensive examination.
The marine accident occurred on May 20, 2026, and has been officially classified by the Bureau as a “Very Serious Marine Casualty,” triggering the agency’s highest level of investigative response.
In a statement on Friday by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the NSIB disclosed that it activated its marine emergency response procedures immediately after receiving reports of the collision.
As part of the initial response, a specialised team of investigators was deployed to Onne and Bonny on May 22 to begin field operations, secure critical evidence and establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to the Bureau, investigators boarded both vessels involved in the collision and carried out extensive evidence-gathering activities aimed at preserving vital information for the ongoing probe.
“The team boarded both vessels and carried out extensive evidence-gathering procedures, including interviews with the Masters and essential crew members.
Relevant operational documents and navigational records were also secured for analysis,” the statement said.
The agency further revealed that crucial navigational and operational data had already been recovered from the container vessel, MV Maersk Valparaiso.
Investigators successfully extracted information from the vessel’s Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) and Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) for forensic examination and technical analysis.
Officials explained that the data would assist investigators in reconstructing events leading up to the collision and identifying factors that may have contributed to the accident.
In line with international maritime regulations, the NSIB said it had formally notified Singapore’s Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB), which has a direct interest in the investigation.
The Bureau noted that cooperation with both domestic and international stakeholders had already commenced as part of efforts to ensure a transparent and credible investigative process.
According to the agency, the objective of the investigation is not only to determine the immediate cause of the collision but also to uncover any underlying or contributory factors that may have played a role in the incident.
The NSIB assured maritime operators, industry stakeholders and the public that the investigation would be conducted independently and professionally, with a focus on strengthening safety standards across Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The Bureau stressed that the findings of the investigation would contribute to improving navigational safety and reducing the likelihood of similar accidents in the future.
However, the agency cautioned against speculation while investigations remain ongoing, noting that it would be inappropriate to draw conclusions before all available evidence has been thoroughly examined.
“It would be premature to speculate on the probable causes at this stage. The Bureau strongly urges the public and all stakeholders to refrain from speculation while investigations continue,” the statement added.
The NSIB also stated that if investigators uncover urgent safety concerns during the course of the probe, immediate recommendations would be issued to relevant authorities and operators to prevent a recurrence.
The agency reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, assuring stakeholders that the final report would be released publicly upon completion of the investigation.
According to the Bureau, the report will be published in accordance with national laws and international maritime obligations, providing a detailed account of the incident, the findings of investigators and recommendations aimed at enhancing maritime safety.
The investigation is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding one of the most significant maritime incidents recorded in Nigerian waters this year and could lead to new measures designed to improve operational standards within the shipping industry.
