At least 60 people have died after a boat carrying more than 100 passengers capsized in Niger State, north-central Nigeria. Officials confirmed the tragedy took place in Borgu Local Government Area when the vessel hit a submerged tree stump while on its way to a condolence visit.
The boat had left Tungan Sule in Malale district on Tuesday morning and was heading to Dugga town. Around 11 a.m. local time, it struck the stump near Gausawa community, causing it to overturn. Local authorities said the death toll has risen to 60, while several others remain missing. Ten survivors are reported to be in serious condition.
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Witnesses said most of the victims were women and children. Community leaders confirmed that some bodies were buried immediately in line with Islamic rites. The Niger State Emergency Management Agency earlier reported 29 deaths and 50 rescues but noted that search and recovery operations are still ongoing.
Boat accidents are sadly common in Nigeria, especially during the rainy season when river levels rise. Overloading, poor maintenance, and a lack of safety measures are frequent causes of such disasters. Officials confirmed that the ill-fated vessel was overloaded at the time of the accident, adding to concerns over weak enforcement of safety regulations.
The incident has renewed calls for stronger monitoring and safety protocols on Nigeria’s waterways to prevent further tragedies. For now, grieving families in Niger State continue to mourn their loved ones as divers and rescue workers search for more victims.
