A soldier attached to the Nigeria 6 Division, has died in a gunboat accident that occurred along Bolo waterways in Ogu-Boli local government area of Rivers state.
The spokesman of the 6 Division, Major Danjuma Jonah confirmed the death of the soldier in a statement on Monday.
He said the incident occurred on Saturday during an operation along the waterways.
According to Danjuma, the unnamed soldier was initially declared missing.
It said, “The soldier was one of the soldiers deployed on duty in the waterways in the Niger Delta region to safeguard critical national assets.
“The gunboat conveying the late soldier was hit by a turbulent wave, which led to the unfortunate accident. The soldier was declared missing after the boat accident.
“Consequently, a search and rescue mission was launched, and his lifeless body was recovered. Additionally, the boat involved in the accident has also been recovered.
“The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, NA/Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE, Major General Jamal Abdussalam while commiserating with the deceased family, expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident.
“He added that the late soldier paid the supreme sacrifice in the defence of fatherland land and service to humanity, adding that he would be greatly missed by the NA and the nation at large. He prayed for the repose of his soul and prayed that Almighty God grant him eternal rest.”