A distress signal was received by NIMASA from the Regional Maritime Rescue Coordinating Center (RMRCC) Lagos concerning the Britania U drilling platform. The platform was in distress at Ajakpa Field (OML 90), located south of Forcados Terminal in Delta State, Nigeria.
All 19 crew members aboard the Britania U vessel were successfully rescued, as stated by NIMASA’s Osagie Edward. Collaboration with other responding agencies ensured the safe rescue and evacuation of the crew and other individuals exposed during the incident.
“An incident command center has been set up by the NIMASA Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, to respond effectively to oil spillage or other marine incidents. This aligns with the Agency’s mandate under the Merchant Shipping Act 2007,” Edward mentioned.
Additionally, the Marine Accident Investigation Unit at NIMASA has initiated an investigation into the causes of the mishap. The investigation’s findings will be made public, and any recommendations will be implemented accordingly.