At least 25 people have been confirmed dead and 13 others rescued following a canoe accident in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The incident occurred at about 7:48 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, when a canoe conveying 52 passengers capsized while en route from Adiyani town in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA.
According to reports, the passengers were returning from Adiyani, where they had been engaged in fishing, farming, and other business activities, when the canoe overturned during the journey.
As of the latest update, 14 passengers remain missing. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, involving security agencies, emergency responders, and local community volunteers who are working to locate the missing persons and recover bodies.
The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has deployed search and rescue teams from Bade and Nguru Local Government Areas to support efforts on the ground.
Authorities have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to assist survivors and affected families, as well as to ensure the successful completion of the rescue operation.
In a statement, the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, commiserated with the bereaved families and the people of Nguru and Guri Local Government Areas.
He directed that immediate medical and logistical support be provided to survivors receiving treatment and stressed the need for expedited referral services to save lives.
Further details are expected as rescue operations continue.