The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced investigation into the collision involving container vessel, MV Maersk Valparaiso, and oil tanker, MT Lady Martina, at the Bonny Anchorage in Rivers State.
The incident, which occurred on May 20, 2026, has been officially classified by the Bureau as a “Very Serious Marine Casualty.”
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the NSIB, Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the Bureau disclosed that it swiftly activated its marine occurrence response protocols after receiving notification of the incident.
According to the statement, an investigation Go-Team was deployed to Onne and Bonny on May 22, 2026, to commence preliminary investigations and preserve critical evidence related to the collision.
“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,” the statement said.
The Bureau further revealed that technical investigators had successfully downloaded data from the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) and Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) of MV Maersk Valparaiso for detailed forensic and navigational analysis.
NSIB explained that in line with the International Maritime Organisation’s Casualty Investigation Code and Nigeria’s international obligations, the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau of Singapore had been formally notified as a substantially interested State.
The Bureau also confirmed that collaborative engagement with both local and international stakeholders had commenced as part of efforts to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
“The NSIB wishes to reassure the public, maritime stakeholders, and the international maritime community that the investigation is being conducted with the highest standards of professionalism, independence, and thoroughness,” the statement added.
It noted that the objective of the investigation was to determine the causal and contributory factors responsible for the incident and recommend measures aimed at improving maritime safety standards.
The Bureau, however, cautioned against speculation on the possible causes of the collision, stressing that investigations were still ongoing.
“It would be premature to speculate on the probable causes at this stage. The Bureau therefore strongly urges the public and all stakeholders to refrain from speculation while the investigative process continues,” the statement said.
NSIB further assured that urgent safety recommendations would be issued should any critical safety concerns arise during the course of the investigation.
The Bureau added that the final investigation report would be made public upon completion in accordance with national regulations and international obligations.
