NSIB investigates collision involving Bonny Anchorage vessel.

By Efe Onodjae

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has begun an investigation into the collision between the container vessel MV Maersk Valparaiso and the oil tanker MT Lady Martina at Bonny Anchorage in Rivers State.

The incident, which occurred on 20 May 2026, has been classified by the Bureau as a “Very Serious Marine Casualty.”

In a statement released yesterday by NSIB’s director of public affairs and family assistance, Mrs Funke Adebayo‑Arowojobe, the bureau said it immediately activated its marine occurrence response protocols after receiving notification of the event.

The statement noted that an investigation team was deployed to Onne and Bonny on 22 May to begin evidence preservation and preliminary investigative work.

“The team boarded both vessels and carried out critical evidence collection, including detailed interviews with the masters and key crew members. Operational records and navigational data relevant to the casualty were also secured and documented,” the statement read.

NSIB further disclosed that data from the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) and the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) of MV Maersk Valparaiso had been successfully downloaded for forensic and navigational analysis.

The Bureau also noted that, in accordance with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Casualty Investigation Code and its international obligations, it formally notified the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) of Singapore as a substantially interested state.

It added that collaborative engagements had begun with relevant local and international stakeholders.

The Bureau reassured the public and maritime stakeholders that the investigation would be carried out with professionalism, independence, and thoroughness.

It stated that the objective of the probe is to establish the causal and contributory factors behind the occurrence and to enhance maritime safety standards.

NSIB cautioned against speculation on the possible causes of the collision, saying investigations are still ongoing.

“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 added.

The agency also said that should urgent safety concerns arise during the investigation, immediate safety recommendations would be issued to prevent similar incidents.

According to the Bureau, the final investigation report will be made public upon completion of the exercise in line with national regulations and international obligations.

The post NSIB probes Bonny Anchorage vessel collision appeared first on Vanguard News.