By fabulous reports
On July 30, 2024, the Nigerian Navy successfully rescued 59 crew members from a potentially disastrous situation near the Okpobo River entrance, but tragically lost one of their own in the process. The incident involved the MV AMBIKA 4, a dredging vessel working at Okpobo field under contract with Sterling Global Oil Limited, which found itself at risk of sinking in turbulent waters.
Responding swiftly to a distress call from the vessel, the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bonny deployed a rescue team of 10 armed personnel in two Interceptor Boats. The team was led by Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, the Base Operations Officer. Despite the challenging conditions, with strong waves hampering initial rescue efforts, the team pressed on.
As the situation worsened, a reinforcement squadron of three additional boats was dispatched, and the Nigerian Navy escalated the rescue mission by deploying Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones, and helicopters from both the Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Airforce. The coordinated efforts culminated in the successful rescue of all 59 crew members aboard the MV AMBIKA 4 after a grueling 10-hour operation that stretched from midnight on July 29 to 10:00 AM on July 30.
However, the mission came at a high cost. Lieutenant Commander Gwaza, a highly trained combat diver, tragically fell overboard during the operation and could not be saved. The Nigerian Navy mourns the loss of Lieutenant Commander Gwaza, whose bravery and dedication in the face of danger exemplify the risks taken by Navy personnel to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime domain.
In a statement, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, the Navy’s Director of Information, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Lieutenant Commander Gwaza, describing his death as a profound sacrifice made in the line of duty. His memory will be honored for his unwavering commitment to the safety and security of others.
The public is urged to remember the sacrifices made by the men and women of the Nigerian Navy, who continue to protect the nation’s waters under often perilous conditions
