Yobe Boat Tragedy: Death Toll Hits 29, Rescue Ongoing as Eight Still Missing

Story: written by January 5,2026

The death toll from the boat accident in Nguru Local Government Area, Yobe State has risen to 29 following the recovery of additional bodies, the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) confirmed.

Of the recovered bodies, 24 were from Nguru LGA, two from Yusufari LGA, and three from Gurin LGA in Jigawa State. Meanwhile, 12 people were rescued and discharged, three were hospitalised, and two have since been discharged. Search-and-rescue operations continue for eight missing individuals.

The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs Zubaida Umar, has activated the agency’s Maiduguri Operations Office, deploying an Emergency Response Team to support ongoing rescue efforts. NEMA will collaborate with Yobe SEMA, local divers, community volunteers, and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen the operations.

In a statement, Mrs Umar extended her condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirmed NEMA’s commitment to providing support. She also urged riverine communities to prioritise safety, avoid overloading boats, and ensure the use of life jackets during water transport.