A boat carrying about 80 passengers capsized on the River Niger in Ibaji Local Government Area, Kogi State, on Tuesday, leaving 14 people dead, 24 rescued, and 42 still missing.
The vessel was traveling from Onugwa community to Olushi village when the incident occurred around 5:40 p.m., according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
Rescue operations began immediately after the accident, with NEMA deploying personnel from its Abuja Operations Office to support local efforts. Community divers and multiple agencies, including the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the National Inland Waterways Authority, the Fire Service, and the Nigerian Red Cross Society, joined in the search and rescue.
The operations are ongoing as authorities continue efforts to locate the missing passengers.Officials reported that boat accidents remain a serious concern in Nigeria, particularly in riverine states where waterways serve as main transport routes.
Overcrowding, poorly maintained vessels, and limited adherence to safety rules have caused numerous casualties over the years. Authorities stressed the need for stricter compliance with safety measures, such as using life jackets and following passenger limits.
President Bola Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Kogi State, describing the incident as tragic.
He praised the first responders and called on water transport operators to prioritize safety over profit, while also wishing the rescued passengers a swift recovery.