Nigerian Navy officer sacrifices life, saved 59 lives

The Nigerian Navy has reported the loss of one of its officers during a daring rescue operation that saved 59 lives from treacherous waters.

According to Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, the Navy received a distress call on July 30, 2024, from MV AMBIKA 4, a dredging vessel at risk of sinking near the turbulent Okpobo River entrance.

In response, the Nigerian Navy's Forward Operating Base, BONNY, swiftly deployed a rescue team led by Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, comprising 10 armed personnel in two interceptor boats.

Despite the challenging conditions, the team successfully rescued 59 persons from drowning but tragically lost one of their own officers in the process.

It said attempts to approach the distressed vessel proved challenging due to the force of the waves and another squadron of three boats was dispatched to reinforce the rescue team.

According to the statement, another vessel, Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones and helicopters, and one Nigerian Air Force helicopter were deployed for the search-and-rescue mission.

It said all 59 crew were rescued successfully but the Base Operations Officer, Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, paid the supreme price.