NIMASA Rescues 19 Vessel Crew Members From Fire Outbreak

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) on Friday announced the rescue of 19 crew members of Britania U, a drilling platform under distress at Ajakpa Field, (OML 90), 10.77 nautical miles South of Forcadoes Terminal in Delta State.

A statement by the spokesman of the agency, Osagie Edward, said the agency received signals from the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordinating Center (RMRCC) in Lagos on Thursday, that the vessel was under distress.

According to him, NIMASA collaborated with other responding agencies and first responders to ensure safe rescue and evacuation of the crew and other exposed persons during the incident, saying investigation has started in the incident.

Edward added that the Director General of NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola has set up an incident command center in the office of the agency’s Executive Director Operations, to prepare an effective situation-based response plan against oil spillage or other incidents affecting the marine environment and safety of navigation.

Furthermore, in line with its mandate under the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, the agency’s Marine Accident Investigation Unit has launched an investigation into the direct and remote causes of this unfortunate mishap.

He added that the outcome of the investigation will be made public and its recommendations implemented.