At least 25 people are missing after a boat capsized on a river in Sokoto state, northwestern Nigeria, while transporting passengers to a market, authorities confirmed on Monday, August 18. The National Emergency Management Agency reported that 25 others were rescued following the incident, which occurred on Sunday.
Boat accidents are frequent in Nigeria’s remote riverine communities, especially during the rainy season, with many linked to overloading, poor maintenance, and the absence of safety measures such as life jackets. Just last month, a similar tragedy in north-central Nigeria claimed at least 25 lives, highlighting persistent safety challenges on the country’s waterways.