SACRIFICE: Navy Mourns Officer Who Lost Life Saving 59 from Drowning

SACRIFICE: Navy Mourns Officer Who Lost Life Saving 59 from Drowning

The Nigerian Navy is mourning the loss of its personnel, Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, who lost his life while leading a rescue operation to save 59 crew members from a sinking dredging vessel, MV AMBIKA 4, in Rivers State.

Commodore A Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, said in a statement today that the tragic incident occurred on July 30, 2024. Lieutenant Commander Gwaza, a seasoned combat diver, led a team of 10 personnel in two interceptor boats to rescue the stranded crew.

According to Adams-Aliu, the vessel, contracted to Sterling Global Oil Limited, was struggling to stay afloat near the turbulent Okpobo River entrance when the Nigerian Navy received a distress call.

“Despite treacherous waves and challenging conditions, the Nigerian Navy deployed additional resources, including three more boats, the Nigerian Navy Ship GONGOLA, drones, and helicopters from the Navy and Air Force. After a grueling 10-hour operation, all 59 crew members were successfully rescued,” he said.

Gwaza fell overboard accidentally during the rescue operation, which lasted from midnight on July 29, 2024, to 10:00 hours on July 30, 2024.

The statement read in part: “The Nigerian Navy deeply mourns the loss of Lieutenant Commander Gideon Yashim Gwaza, who bravely risked his life to save others.

“Lieutenant Commander Gwaza was a well-trained combat diver whose painful death reflects the risks and sacrifices of Nigerian Navy personnel towards the safety of Nigeria’s maritime domain.

“His dedication and sacrifice will forever be remembered.”