The death toll from the tragic boat accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State has risen to 29, according to officials from the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA).

Dr. Mohammad Goje, Executive Secretary of YOSEMA, confirmed on Monday, January 5, 2026, that additional bodies were recovered from the Yobe River, bringing the total fatalities to 29 from an initial report of 25. Some reports indicate four more bodies were found, while others specify two.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening, January 3, 2026, at approximately 7:48 p.m., when an overloaded wooden canoe carrying around 52 passengers—mostly farmers, fishermen, and traders—capsized midway along the Yobe River near Garbi town. The passengers were returning from Adiyani town in Guri LGA of neighbouring Jigawa State, where they had engaged in daily economic activities.

Preliminary investigations point to overloading and structural defects in the vessel as the primary causes of the mishap. Boat accidents remain common in Nigeria’s northern waterways due to poor regulation, lack of safety equipment, and frequent overloading.

Search-and-rescue operations, involving YOSEMA teams, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), security agencies, local divers, and community volunteers, are ongoing. Between 8 and 10 passengers remain missing as of the latest updates.

Meanwhile, 13 survivors who sustained injuries have been treated and discharged from hospital.

In response, the Yobe State Government has donated N20 million to support the families of the deceased and the survivors. Governor Mai Mala Buni announced the relief package during a condolence visit to the Nguru Emirate and the affected Garbi community, represented by his deputy, Idi Barde Gubana.

Governor Buni described the incident as a “monumental loss” and directed enhanced safety measures for water transportation in the region, including collaboration with federal agencies.

This tragedy highlights the recurring risks on Nigeria’s inland waterways, where similar accidents have claimed hundreds of lives in recent years due to inadequate enforcement of safety standards. Authorities continue to urge caution against overloading vessels to prevent future losses.