The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commenced a full investigation into the collision involving MV Maersk Valparaiso and MT Lady Martina at Bonny Anchorage, Rivers State. The occurrence, which happened on 20 May 2026, has been classified as a Very Serious Marine Casualty.
The Maersk Valparaiso and MT Lady Martina incident have drawn attention across Nigeria’s maritime sector due to the scale of the occurrence and the importance of Bonny Anchorage to regional shipping operations. The NSIB confirmed that it immediately activated its marine occurrence response protocols after receiving notification of the accident.
According to a statement signed by Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs Funke Adebayo-Arowojobe, the Bureau deployed an investigation Go-Team to Onne and Bonny on 22 May 2026. The team began evidence preservation procedures and preliminary investigative activities shortly after arrival.
During the initial phase of the investigation, officials boarded both vessels to secure critical operational evidence. Investigators also conducted detailed interviews with the Masters and selected crew members connected to the marine casualty.
In addition, the NSIB confirmed that navigational records and operational documents relating to the Maersk Valparaiso collision were collected for detailed examination. These materials are expected to assist investigators in reconstructing the sequence of events leading to the accident.
As part of the technical investigation, the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) and Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) data from MV Maersk Valparaiso were successfully downloaded. The Bureau stated that the data would undergo comprehensive forensic and navigational analysis.
The NSIB explained that the investigation is being conducted in line with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Casualty Investigation Code, MSC.255(84). Consequently, the Bureau formally notified the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau of Singapore as a substantially interested State.
Meanwhile, the agency has also initiated collaboration with relevant local and international stakeholders connected to the investigation. This approach, according to the Bureau, will ensure transparency and compliance with global maritime safety standards.
Speaking on the ongoing probe, Mrs Adebayo-Arowojobe stressed that the Bureau remains committed to professionalism, independence, and thoroughness throughout the investigative process.
“The sole objective is to establish the causal and contributory factors of the occurrence and to promote enhanced maritime safety,” she stated.
The NSIB also appealed to maritime stakeholders and the public to avoid speculation regarding the probable causes of the accident. According to the Bureau, drawing premature conclusions could undermine the integrity of the investigation.
“It would be premature to speculate on the probable causes at this stage,” the statement added. “The Bureau therefore strongly urges the public and all stakeholders to refrain from speculation while the investigative process continues.”
Maersk Valparaiso and MT Lady Martina incident
The MV Maersk Valparaiso, MT Lady Martina investigation is expected to focus on navigational procedures, vessel movements, communication exchanges, and operational compliance before the collision occurred. Analysts believe the outcome may influence future maritime safety protocols within Nigerian waters.
Bonny Anchorage remains one of Nigeria’s busiest maritime operational zones, handling significant vessel traffic linked to oil and gas exports as well as container shipping activities. Therefore, any major casualty within the area attracts both local and international attention.
Industry stakeholders are also expected to monitor the investigation closely because findings from the final report could lead to updated safety recommendations for vessel operators, harbour authorities, and maritime regulators.
The Bureau further stated that urgent safety recommendations would be issued immediately if investigators identify any critical safety concerns during the course of the inquiry. Such recommendations, according to the NSIB, would aim to prevent similar marine casualties in the future.
Upon completion of the investigation, the Final Investigation Report will be published in accordance with national regulations and international obligations. The report is expected to outline the direct and contributory factors associated with the Maersk Valparaiso collision.
Nigeria has continued efforts to strengthen accident investigation standards across the aviation, rail, and maritime sectors through the NSIB. The Bureau’s increasing involvement in marine casualty investigations reflects broader efforts to improve transportation safety oversight nationwide.
