The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the death of 13 persons and the rescue of 26 others following a boat mishap that occurred on Saturday in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.
According to Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, Abdullahi Kadiri, the ill-fated boat was conveying passengers from Zangoro Bassa to Gijiwa in Shiroro when it capsized mid-river. The passengers, mostly women and children, were headed to a local market when the tragedy struck.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Kadiri disclosed that a total of 39 individuals were onboard the boat when the accident occurred. “So far, 26 persons have been rescued alive by local divers and emergency responders, while 13 bodies have been recovered from the river,” he said.
The agency said preliminary investigations indicate that the boat may have been overloaded, and none of the passengers were wearing life jackets—a recurring issue in inland waterway transport across the country.
Kadiri explained that rescue efforts were ongoing despite security challenges in the area, which has experienced incidents of banditry and insurgent activity in recent years. “The presence of armed groups in some parts of Shiroro has made access difficult for emergency personnel,” he added.
He commended the efforts of local volunteers and traditional leaders who joined in the search-and-rescue mission, stressing the need for improved regulation of river transport, especially during the rainy season when water levels rise and conditions become more dangerous.
Meanwhile, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has reiterated its commitment to enhancing safety and raising awareness about the risks of unregulated boat travel.
ASHENEWS notes that boat mishaps remain a serious concern in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities where waterways are a primary means of transportation. Authorities have repeatedly urged boat operators to avoid overcrowding and to provide safety gear for passengers.
As of the time of this report, search efforts continue for any other possible victims, while the rescued individuals are receiving medical attention.
