The National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu have praised the Nigerian Navy’s ability to respond to marine situations.
The 11 out of 14 medical students who drowned in Calabar waterways last Saturday were saved thanks to the Navy’s quick response, the Director General of NEMA, who was represented by a delegation led by Mr. Fortunatus Anyanwu, said.
After the finding and burial of the three bodies at the Military Cemetery, the team paid a visit to the NNS Victory headquarters in Calabar, where the commendation was given.
He said that NEMA was confident in the capability of the Nigerian Navy, which they said continues to be a crucial stakeholder in disaster management across the nation as well as search and rescue operations, particularly in the marine environment.
He recalled the essential role the Navy had in rescue efforts, the movement of relief supplies, and the distribution of palliative supplies to flood victims in 2022, describing the navy’s rescue of the students as a gallant act.
The NEMA delegation further emphasised the Navy Units’ value as a component of the national disaster response system.
“We at NEMA will always seek the support of the Navy in disaster management. We must say that your swift response which saved 11 out of the 14 students has been a heroic act. The navy is truly a dependable ally in maritime emergencies in Nigeria,” he said.
Gov. Bassey Otu also praised the navy, local divers, and the police for saving the 11 survivors with quick actions and bringing honour to the nation.
In response, Commodore Vincent Gbaranwi, Commander of NNS Victory, thanked the NEMA Team for their visit and assured them that the Navy would continue to protect people’s lives and property along the nation’s marine routes.
He reassured NEMA that “search and rescue” is a statutory requirement of the Navy and a key element of the Strategic Directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff.
The commander of the navy praised his men for helping with the rescue.
In order to avoid such distress situations, he recommended seamen to constantly follow the fundamental maritime safety regulations.