MV SEMA III: Nigerian Navy Rescues 10 Crew Members From Sinking Vessel Off Calabar

The Nigerian Navy has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to maritime safety with a daring rescue off Calabar waters.

On November 7, 2025, naval personnel from Forward Operating Base (FOB) IBAKA responded swiftly to a distress call from the vessel MV SEMA III, which was taking in water en route from Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.

Aboard the vessel were ten crew members—one Cameroonian, one Equatorial Guinean, and eight Nigerians—who were safely evacuated and cared for thanks to the prompt action of the Navy’s gunboat team.

According to a statement, the Master of MV SEMA III lauded the Nigerian Navy’s professionalism and life-saving intervention.

The successful rescue highlights the renewed vigor under Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Idi Abbas (Admiralty Medal) to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime domain, protect national assets, and support lawful economic activities at sea.

“The successful rescue operation underscores the Nigerian Navy’s renewed efforts under the leadership of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas  to ensure maritime safety, protection of critical national assets, and promotion of lawful economic activities within Nigeria’s maritime domain.” the statement noted.