At least 25 people have been confirmed dead following a tragic boat accident in Yobe State, while several others remain missing as rescue operations continue, local authorities said on Thursday.
The incident occurred when a passenger boat capsized while navigating a river in a rural part of the state. Witnesses said the boat was conveying traders and villagers returning from a nearby market when it lost balance midstream.
Emergency responders and local divers were immediately mobilised, managing to rescue several survivors. Many of the victims, however, were reported to be women and children who could not swim.
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Officials believe overcrowding may have contributed to the accident, a recurring problem in riverine transport across northern Nigeria. Poor weather conditions and lack of safety equipment were also cited as possible factors.
Yobe State authorities described the incident as devastating and pledged to support affected families. The state government said it would intensify public awareness campaigns on water transport safety and enforce regulations to prevent overloading of boats.
Residents of the community lamented the frequent occurrence of such tragedies, blaming inadequate infrastructure and limited alternatives for river crossings.
The National Emergency Management Agency said search-and-rescue efforts would continue until all missing persons are accounted for, while urging commuters to avoid unsafe travel practices.
