24 rescued, 14 dead, 42 missing in Kogi boat mishap — NEMA

Twenty-four passengers were rescued, 14 bodies recovered, and 42 people remain missing following a boat accident on the River Niger in Ibaji Local Government Area, Kogi State, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed.

The agency, in a post on X on Thursday, said the incident occurred on Tuesday when a boat carrying about 80 passengers capsized while traveling from Onugwa community to Olushi village. The accident reportedly happened around 5:40 p.m.

NEMA said its Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, immediately activated the agency’s Abuja Operations Office, which deployed personnel to support local rescue efforts. Search and rescue operations led to the recovery of 24 survivors and 14 bodies, while 42 passengers are still missing. Community divers are assisting official rescue teams, and operations continue.

The agency emphasized that the efforts involve multiple stakeholders, including the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency, the Local Emergency Management Committee in Ibaji, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the National Inland Waterways Authority, the Fire Service, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, local divers, and community members. NEMA’s Head of Abuja Operations, Mr. Zakari Abubakar, visited the traditional ruler of Onugwa community, Chief Patrick Arome, to commiserate over the tragedy.

NEMA also highlighted the urgent need for strict compliance with water safety regulations, including enforcing passenger limits and the use of life jackets. Boat accidents remain a recurring challenge in Nigeria’s riverine states, often caused by overcrowding, poorly maintained vessels, and inadequate adherence to safety rules.

President Bola Tinubu condoled with the government and people of Kogi State, describing the incident as “shocking and unfortunate.” In a statement signed by his Information and Strategy adviser, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised first responders and urged federal, state, and local authorities to provide support to survivors and victims. He also called on water transport operators to prioritize safety over profit and prayed for comfort for the bereaved and speedy recovery for the injured.