…Buni Mourns Boat Accident Victims
At least 25 people have been confirmed dead, while 13 others were rescued alive, following a tragic canoe accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The incident occurred at about 7:48 pm on Saturday, January 3, 2026, when a canoe conveying 52 passengers capsized while traveling from Adiyani town in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA, Yobe State.
The victims were reportedly returning from Adiyani town, where they were engaged in fishing, farming, and other local business activities, when the canoe overturned mid-journey.
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So far, 13 passengers have been successfully rescued, while 14 others remain missing. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with security agencies, emergency responders, and local community volunteers working tirelessly to locate the missing passengers and recover bodies.
According to SEMA, search and Recue Team from Bade and Nguru have since been dispatched to support the team on ground
Meanwhile, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe state has described the incident as a monumental loss to their families and the state.
Buni in his condolence message said “it is with a heavy heart that l received the shocking and devastating news of the boat mishap in Nguru local government area which claimed 25 lives with 14 others still missing and 13 rescued”.
The Governor prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased persons and directed for treatment of those rescued.
“I pray more survivors will be rescued to join their families” Buni prayed.
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Meanwhile, Governor Buni has directed the State Emergency Management Agency, the Fire Service and Nguru local government council to mobilize additional rescue mission to intensify the search and rescue of those still missing.
The tragic accident was reported to have occurred yesterday when a canoe conveying 52 passengers from Adiyani in Jigawa State to Garbi in Nguru Local Government Area capsized and 25 people were confirmed dead.
The governor cautioned against overloading of canoes and vehicles to guard against avoidable accidents.
Gov. Buni further directed SEMA to provide immediate support to the families of the victims, while search and rescue should continue.
