File image: Unrelated photo of a capsized boat
No fewer than 25 people have been confirmed dead, while 14 others remain missing following a boat accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening when a canoe conveying 52 passengers capsized while travelling from Adiyani town in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State.
Confirming the development, the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mohammed Goje, said the accident happened at about 7:48 pm on January 3, 2026.
According to him, preliminary reports indicate that 25 passengers lost their lives in the mishap, 13 were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining 14 persons who are still missing.
Goje added that emergency responders were immediately mobilized to the scene and rescue operations are continuing.
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, expressed deep sympathy with the families of the victims, describing the incident as tragic and heartbreaking. He directed that all necessary medical attention and logistical support be provided promptly to the survivors.
The victims were said to be fishermen returning to their base when the accident occurred.
Nguru is located about 230 kilometres from Damaturu, the Yobe State capital.
