Many dead and missing after Yobe boat accident
At least 25 people have died and 14 are still missing after a boat accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State. The boat was carrying about 52 passengers traveling from Adiyani town in Jigawa State to Garbi town in Yobe State. Zubaida Umar, Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency, confirmed ongoing rescue efforts. Authorities are urging riverine communities to prioritize safety and avoid overloading boats.
What happened
- The accident occurred at approximately 7:48 pm on Saturday, 3rd January 2026, involving a canoe with 52 passengers.
- The passengers were returning from fishing and farming activities when the canoe capsized midway across the water channel.
- Zubaida Umar activated an emergency response team to support rescue operations in Nguru Local Government Area.
- As of the time of reporting, 25 people have been confirmed dead, 13 rescued, and 14 remain missing.
- Less than a week ago, another boat accident killed six passengers and four others were rescued along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun water channel.
