At least 25 people have been confirmed dead, while 14 others remain missing after a canoe capsized in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The accident occurred at about 7:48 pm on Saturday, as the canoe—carrying 52 passengers—was travelling from Adiyani in Jigawa State to Garbi community in Yobe.
Confirming this to Channels Television, the Executive Secretary, Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mohammed Goje, said 13 people were rescued.
Most of the victims are believed to be fishermen returning to their base.
“The accident occurred at about 7.48 pm on Saturday January 3, 2026 when a canoe carrying 52 passengers capsized while travelling from Adiyani town in Guri Local government area of Jigawa state to Garbi town in Nguru local government area of Yobe state.
“Preliminary report indicates 25 persons are dead, 13 rescued while 14 persons are still missing and the rescue operations are ongoing,” Goje said.
Governor Mai Mala Buni, has commiserated with the families of the dead victims.
He also directed that all necessary medical and logistical support be provided immediately to the victims for prompt medications.
Nguru is about 230 kilometres from Damaturu, the state capital.
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