The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) successfully coordinated the rescue of all nineteen crew members from the Britania U drilling platform following a fire incident in the Niger Delta. The distress signal was received on Thursday from the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordinating Center (RMRCC) Lagos, indicating that the platform was in trouble at Ajakpa Field (OML 90), 10.77 nautical miles south of Forcados Terminal in Delta State.

NIMASA, in collaboration with other responding agencies and first responders, ensured the safe evacuation of the crew and other individuals exposed to the incident. The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, has established an incident command center at the office of the Agency’s Executive Director of Operations. This center is tasked with developing an effective response plan to address potential oil spills or other incidents that could impact the marine environment and the safety of navigation.

In accordance with its mandate under the Merchant Shipping Act 2007, NIMASA’s Marine Accident Investigation Unit has initiated an investigation to determine the direct and remote causes of the mishap. The findings of the investigation will be published, and recommendations will be implemented to prevent future occurrences.

Dr. Mobereola emphasized the importance of maritime safety and environmental protection, assuring the public that NIMASA remains committed to upholding these standards. The swift response and successful rescue operation underscore the agency’s preparedness and capability in handling maritime emergencies.