Kogi Boat Mishap: 14 Dead, 24 Rescued, 42 Missing on River Niger

Tragedy Strikes River Niger in Kogi State

A devastating boat accident occurred on the River Niger in the Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at approximately 5:40 p.m. The incident, confirmed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has led to the recovery of 14 bodies, the rescue of 24 passengers, and left 42 individuals unaccounted for. The ill-fated boat was reportedly carrying around 80 passengers from the Onugwa community to Olushi village when it capsized.

Ongoing Search and Rescue Operations

Following the report of the tragedy, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, the Director General of NEMA, promptly activated the agency's Abuja Operations Office, deploying personnel to the scene to bolster local rescue efforts. Search and rescue operations commenced swiftly and are currently ongoing, involving a multi-agency collaboration. Key stakeholders participating in these efforts include:

• Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (KOSEMA)
• Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC) in Ibaji
• Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps
• National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)
• Fire Service
• Nigerian Red Cross Society
• Local divers and community members

Mr. Zakari Abubakar, Head of the Abuja Operations Office, visited Chief Patrick Arome, the traditional ruler of the Onugwa community, to offer condolences.

Official Reactions and Calls for Enhanced Safety

The incident has drawn widespread concern from Nigerian authorities. President Bola Tinubu extended his condolences to the government and people of Kogi State, describing the event as 'shocking and unfortunate'. He urged water transport operators to prioritize safety over profit. Similarly, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State expressed deep sorrow and directed state agencies to provide immediate relief to the victims' families and to intensify efforts to improve waterway safety. Kingsley Fanwo, the Kogi State Commissioner for Information, also conveyed the state's grief and commitment to enhancing safety measures.

Boat accidents are a recurring challenge in Nigeria's riverine areas, often attributed to factors such as overcrowding, poorly maintained vessels, and a lack of adherence to safety regulations, including the non-use of life jackets. The current rainy season, which typically lasts from March to November, often leads to increased water levels and dangerous navigation conditions on rivers like the Niger.