BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched a full-scale investigation into the collision between container vessel MV Maersk Valparaiso and oil tanker MT Lady Martina at Bonny Anchorage in Rivers State.
The incident, which occurred on May 20, 2026, has been classified by the Bureau as a “Very Serious Marine Casualty,” highlighting the gravity of the occurrence and the potential safety implications for Nigeria’s maritime domain.
In a statement by Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, the NSIB said it activated its emergency response protocols immediately after receiving notification of the incident, deploying an investigation team to Onne and Bonny on May 22 to begin on-site work.
“Following receipt of notification, the NSIB promptly activated its marine occurrence response protocols and deployed an investigation Go-Team to Onne and Bonny on 22 May 2026 to initiate evidence preservation and preliminary investigative activities,” she said.
Investigators have since boarded both vessels, conducting detailed interviews with the Masters and key crew members while securing operational records and navigational data critical to determining the cause of the collision.
“In the initial phase of the investigation, the team boarded both vessels and carried out critical evidence collection, including detailed interviews with the Masters and key crew members,” the statement added.
As part of the technical analysis, the Bureau confirmed that key digital systems from the container vessel have already been extracted for forensic examination.
“The Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) and Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) data from MV Maersk Valparaiso have been successfully downloaded for comprehensive forensic and navigational analysis,” it said.
In line with international maritime protocols, NSIB has also notified the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) of Singapore, identifying it as a “substantially interested State,” and has commenced collaboration with both local and international stakeholders.
The Bureau emphasized that the investigation is being conducted independently and in strict adherence to global standards, particularly the International Maritime Organization’s casualty investigation code.
“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,” it stated.
It stressed that the goal of the probe is strictly safety-driven.
“The sole objective is to establish the causal and contributory factors of the occurrence and to promote enhanced maritime safety,” the agency said.
While the investigation is ongoing, NSIB cautioned against speculation regarding the cause of the collision.
“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.
The agency added that any urgent risks identified during the probe would trigger immediate safety advisories.
“Should any urgent safety concerns emerge during the course of the investigation, the Bureau will issue immediate safety recommendations aimed at preventing similar occurrences and strengthening maritime safety standards,” it noted.
NSIB confirmed that a final report will be released upon the conclusion of the investigation, in line with national regulations and international obligations.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
