Rescue operations are underway in northwestern Nigeria following a deadly boat capsizing that has resulted in at least five confirmed deaths and a dozen missing. The accident occurred when the vessel was crossing a river in Jigawa state. Initially, up to 40 people were feared to have drowned, including women and children. However, as of Monday afternoon, 23 of the estimated 40 passengers had been found alive.
Such accidents are common on Nigeria's busy rivers and waterways, often caused by overloaded boats, poor maintenance, or failure to comply with safety regulations. Police spokesman Shi'isu Adam reported that a body was recovered on Sunday, with five more found early on Monday. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed five deaths, with the search and rescue operation still ongoing.
Rains are currently inundating Nigeria, which is in its annual rainy season. However, Nura Abdullahi, Jigawa state spokesman for NEMA, stated that the rains were not a factor in Sunday's accident. The incident underscores the recurring issue of boat safety on Nigeria's waterways.
