At least 25 people have died and 14 others remain missing after a boat carrying 52 passengers capsized midway on a journey from Adiyani town in Jigawa State’s Guri LGA to Garbi town in Yobe State’s Nguru LGA.
The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA) confirmed the tragedy in a statement issued Sunday, noting the incident occurred around 7 p.m. on Saturday. The passengers were mostly farmers and traders.
Thirteen individuals were rescued alive, YOSEMA said, with search and rescue operations continuing amid efforts by security agencies, emergency responders, and local volunteers. Teams from YOSEMA’s Bade and Nguru units have been deployed to the scene.
Governor Mai Mala Buni has ordered immediate medical and logistical support for survivors, emphasizing the need to expedite referral services to save lives.
YOSEMA promised further updates as more details emerge.
The accident underscores the persistent dangers on Nigeria’s waterways.
In April 2025, Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, labeled the recurring boat accidents a “national emergency” requiring urgent collective action.
