The National Emergency Management Agency has deployed an Emergency Response Team to Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State following a tragic boat mishap that claimed several lives.
The deployment was ordered by the Director-General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, who activated the agency’s Maiduguri Operations Office to support ongoing search and rescue efforts at the scene.
NEMA said it was alerted to the incident by the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA). The accident occurred at about 7:48 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, 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 LGA of Yobe State.
The passengers were reportedly returning from fishing and farming activities when the canoe overturned midway across the water channel.
As of the time of reporting, 25 persons were confirmed dead, while 13 others were rescued through the combined efforts of emergency responders and community volunteers. Fourteen persons are still missing, with search and rescue operations continuing.
NEMA said its team is working closely with YOSEMA, the Local Emergency Management Committee, local divers and volunteers to strengthen the rescue operation.
Mrs. Umar expressed sympathy to the families of the deceased and urged riverine communities to prioritise safety by avoiding boat overloading and ensuring the use of life-saving devices during water transportation.
The agency said further updates would be provided as the rescue operation progresses.
