NSIB Investigates Bonny Ship Collision and Oil Spill

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced an investigation into a serious maritime casualty that occurred on May 20, 2026, involving the collision of the contain vessel MV Maersk Valparaiso and the oil tanker MT Ladi Martina at Bonny anchorage in River State. The NSIB classified the incident as a serious maritime casualty and activated its marine occurrence response protocol upon receiving notification.

An investigative team was deployed to Bonny on May 22, 2026, to preserve evidence and conduct preliminary investigations, including interviews with the master and crew members and collecting operational records and navigational data. The NSIB will download voyage data recorder (VDR) information for forensic navigational analysis.

The bureau has formally notified the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) in Singapore and is collaborating with relevant local and international stakeholders. The NSIB reassured the public and maritime stakeholders that the investigation will be conducted independently and professionally, aiming to establish causal factors and enhance maritime safety.

The final report will be published upon completion of the investigation.