40 missing, 10 rescued in Sokoto boat mishap

No fewer than 40 people have been declared missing in a boat accident in Sokoto State.

It was gathered that the boat, which was carrying more than 50 passengers to Goronyo Market in Sokoto State, capsized on Sunday morning.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the incident via a statement issued by its Director General, Zubaida Umar.

Umar disclosed that 10 persons have been rescued, while more than 40 passengers remain missing.

13 dead, 26 rescued in Niger boat mishap

Umar stated: “NEMA, in collaboration with local authorities and emergency responders, is intensifying search and rescue operations to locate the missing persons.

“The Agency reassures the public of its commitment to saving lives, providing timely updates, and coordinating all necessary support for the affected families.”

Boat accidents are common on Nigeria’s waterways due to overcrowding and poor maintenance, particularly during the annual rainy season when rivers and lakes overflow.

Three weeks ago, no fewer than 13 people died and dozens more were missing after a boat ferrying around 100 passengers capsized in Niger State.

The Star