In a bid to uphold its commitment to safe maritime practices and ecological preservation, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has dispatched a dedicated team of Search and Rescue personnel along with marine accident investigation officers to the site of the recent Majestic Rig mishap.
The rig, owned by Depthwize Nigeria Limited, capsized near Ovhor in Warri, Delta State, prompting NIMASA’s rapid intervention.
Osagie Edward, NIMASA’s Assistant Director of Public Relations, conveyed the agency’s proactive measures through an official statement.
He explained initial findings have revealed that the ill-fated rig was flagged under Panama and had been operational within Nigerian waters since 2016 without obtaining the required approvals from NIMASA.
The accident involved the collapse of an ABS Classed inland Water Drilling Barge, spanning 232 feet in length, with a designated drilling depth of 30,000 feet. The barge was in transit from N04, 30:34 / E00543:57 to Ovhor 21, part of the SEPLAT Oil field in Delta State, when the incident occurred.
Mr. Edward further disclosed that NIMASA has initiated contact with the Clean Nigerian Associate, a consortium encompassing all International Oil Companies (IOCs) responsible for addressing Tier 2 oil spills.
In a move to gather comprehensive information, NIMASA has also engaged with officials from SEPLAT Energy Limited, the charterers of the unfortunate rig. These officials are expected to officially report the incident within the stipulated 24-hour timeframe, in accordance with the provisions outlined in the Merchant Shipping Act of 2007.