Kasim Sumaina in Abuja
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), has commenced an investigation into the collision between the container vessel MV Maersk Valparaiso and the oil tanker MT Lady Martina, which occurred at Bonny Anchorage, Rivers State.
The Bureau has classified the occurrence as a ‘Very Serious Marine Accident.’
NSIB said that following receipt of notification, it promptly activated its marine occurrence response protocols and deployed an investigation Go-Team to Onne and Bonny on 22 May 2026 to initiate evidence preservation and preliminary investigative activities.
A statement issued by Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, NSIB, Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobo read: “In the initial phase of the investigation, the team boarded both vessels and carried out critical evidence collection, including detailed interviews with the Masters and key crew members. Operational records and navigational data relevant to the casualty were also secured and documented.”
As part of the technical investigation, the statement hinted that, the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) and Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) data from MV Maersk Valparaiso have been successfully downloaded for comprehensive forensic and navigational analysis.
The statement started further that, “In accordance with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Casualty Investigation Code (MSC.255(84) and its international obligations, the Bureau has formally notified the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) of Singapore as a substantially interested State and has initiated collaborative engagement with relevant local and international stakeholders.”
