At least 25 people have been confirmed dead, while 13 others were rescued alive, 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 carrying 52 passengers capsized while traveling from Adiyani town in Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA.
The passengers were reportedly returning from Adiyani, where they had engaged in fishing, farming, and other business activities, when the canoe overturned mid-journey.
As of the latest update, 13 passengers have been rescued, while 14 others remain missing. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with security agencies, emergency responders, and local community volunteers working together to locate the missing persons and recover bodies.
The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) search and rescue teams from Bade and Nguru LGAs have been deployed to reinforce efforts on the ground.\
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Authorities have expressed deep condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to support survivors and affected families, as well as to bring the rescue operation to a conclusion.
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 emphasized that referral services should be expedited to save lives.
Further details are expected as search and rescue efforts continue.
