A late-evening canoe accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State has left at least 25 people dead, 13 rescued, and 14 others unaccounted for, prompting an ongoing multi-agency search and rescue operation.
The incident occurred at about 7:48 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2025, when a canoe carrying 52 passengers capsized while travelling from Adiyani town in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA, Yobe State.
What officials say
Confirming the incident, the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mohammed Goje, said the passengers were returning from Adiyani, where they had been engaged in fishing, farming, and other local commercial activities, when the vessel overturned mid-journey.
“The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency can confirm the unfortunate canoe mishap that occurred along the Nguru waterway,” Goje said. “Preliminary reports indicate that 52 persons were on board before the canoe capsized, resulting in confirmed fatalities, rescues, and some passengers still missing.”
Rescue efforts underway
SEMA said it received a distress alert shortly after the accident and immediately activated emergency response protocols. Rescue operations are being carried out by security agencies, emergency responders, and local community volunteers.
• 13 passengers have been rescued alive
• 14 passengers are still missing
• Search and rescue teams from Bade and Nguru have been deployed to reinforce efforts on the ground
Officials say operations will continue until all missing persons are located.
Government response
Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni has expressed condolences to the affected families and communities in Nguru and Guri LGAs. He directed that all necessary medical and logistical support be provided to survivors currently receiving treatment.
The governor also instructed health authorities to fast-track referral services where needed to ensure timely care and improve survival outcomes.
Safety concerns
The tragedy has renewed concerns about water transport safety in riverine communities, particularly the risks associated with overloading, night travel, and inadequate safety equipment. Authorities are expected to review safety measures along the Nguru waterways as investigations into the cause of the accident continue.
SEMA urged residents to remain calm and to cooperate with rescue teams as efforts to locate the missing passengers intensify.
Source: Africa Publicity
