At least 60 people are feared dead after a boat capsized in Niger State, Nigeria, with rescue efforts still underway. The incident occurred on September 2, 2025, when the vessel, carrying over 100 passengers, struck a submerged tree stump while navigating the Kainji Reservoir. The boat had departed from Tungan Sule in the Malale district earlier that morning, heading toward Dugga, a nearby town.
Reports indicate that the boat was overcrowded, which is believed to have contributed to the tragic accident. The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has confirmed that women and children made up the majority of the passengers on board. Many were traveling to Dugga for a condolence visit, but their journey ended in disaster when the boat collided with the stump near the Gausawa community in Borgu Local Government Area.
The local government authority and NSEMA have been involved in the ongoing search and recovery efforts. As of the latest reports, 31 bodies have been recovered from the river, with rescue teams continuing to search for survivors and missing persons. Ten people have been found in serious condition, while several others are still being sought. The number of casualties is expected to rise as more bodies are recovered.
Boat accidents are unfortunately common in Nigeria’s riverine areas, especially during the rainy season when water levels are high and rivers overflow. The combination of poorly maintained vessels, overcrowding, and inadequate safety enforcement often leads to tragic incidents like this one. Just last month, a similar tragedy occurred in Sokoto State, where more than 40 people were declared missing after a boat capsized due to overloading.
In response to the disaster, local authorities have called for a review of safety protocols to prevent future accidents. However, until stricter regulations are put in place, these incidents are likely to continue, posing a serious risk to communities that rely on river transport for their daily activities.
