The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that 24 passengers were rescued, 14 bodies recovered, and 42 people remain missing after a boat capsized on the River Niger in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, NEMA said the incident occurred around 5:40 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. The ill-fated boat was carrying approximately 80 passengers from Onugwa community to Olushi village in Ibaji LGA when it capsized.
Boat accidents remain a persistent challenge in Nigeria’s riverine regions, often caused by overcrowding, poor maintenance, and lax enforcement of safety regulations.
Following the incident, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, activated the agency’s Abuja Operations Office and deployed personnel to support ongoing local rescue efforts.
“Search and Rescue (SAR) operations began immediately, resulting in the rescue of 24 passengers. So far, 14 bodies have been recovered, while 42 people are still unaccounted for,” the agency said.
Community divers are working alongside official rescue teams, and the operation is ongoing. NEMA emphasized that multiple agencies are involved in the coordinated response, including the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency, Local Emergency Management Committee (Ibaji), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, National Inland Waterways Authority, Fire Service, Nigerian Red Cross Society, local divers, and community members.
“This joint effort underscores the importance of multi-agency collaboration in responding to disasters swiftly and effectively,” the agency noted.
The NEMA response team, led by Zakari Abubakar, Head of the Abuja Operations Office, also visited the traditional ruler of Onugwa community, Chief Patrick Arome, to express condolences.
The agency stressed the need for stricter enforcement of water transport safety regulations, including the use of life jackets and adherence to passenger limits.
While earlier reports put the death toll at 26, NEMA has now clarified the figures: 24 rescued, 14 confirmed dead, and 42 still missing.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the government and people of Kogi State. In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the incident as “shocking and unfortunate,” noting that the victims were engaged in legitimate economic activities.
He commended first responders and urged federal, state, and local emergency services to intensify rescue and support efforts. The President also called on water transport operators to prioritise safety over profit and prayed for comfort for the bereaved and recovery for the injured.
