Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau opens case on collision at Bonny Anchorage

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the agency responsible for scrutiny of transport accidents and incidents in Nigeria, said it has commenced an investigation into the collision between the Singapore-flagged container vessel MV Maersk Valparaiso and the Nigerian-flagged oil tanker MT Lady Martina, which occurred at Bonny Anchorage in Rivers State on May 20 2026.

The Bureau called the collision a Very Serious Marine Casualty, a formal classification for high-impact accidents defined by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) that either involves a total loss of the ship, loss of life, or severe damage to the environment.

Five crew members aboard the oil tanker were reported to have been moved to the FOB Bonny Sickbay for treatment after sustaining varying degrees of injuries from the incident that led to an oil spill in the area.

Read more: Five injured, oil spilled in vessel collision at Bonny Anchorage

In the initial phase of its investigation 2 days after the incident, NSIB said its ‘Go-Team’ boarded both vessels and interviewed the ship Masters and key crew members as evidence was collected. Operational records and navigational data relevant to the casualty were also secured and documented, the agency said.

“As part of the technical investigation, 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,” NSIB’s report on Friday read.
The Bureau said it has formally notified the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau (TSIB) of Singapore as a “substantially interested State” and has engaged with relevant local and international stakeholders.

“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. The sole objective is to establish the causal and contributory factors of the occurrence and to promote enhanced maritime safety.”

The Bureau said its Final Investigation Report will be published upon completion of the investigation advising against speculation.

“The investigation remains 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,” it said.

“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.”