Boat Carrying Over 30 Passengers Capsises in Jigawa, Casualties Yet to Be Confirmed

Search and rescue operations are ongoing after a boat carrying more than 30 passengers reportedly capsised in Malamawar Yan Dutse Community, Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

The Director of Planning at the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) confirmed the incident to journalists in Dutse. He said the boat was conveying mostly female farmers and labourers when the accident occurred.

According to him, the exact cause of the mishap has yet to be established, while emergency responders and local residents are continuing efforts to rescue survivors and account for everyone on board.

“All hands are on deck as combined efforts continue to determine the exact number of those rescued or missing,” he said.

The official added that authorities have not yet confirmed the number of casualties, as rescue operations remain in progress.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Ringim Local Government Emergency Management Committee, Malam Habibu Dauda, appealed to residents to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information pending an official statement from the relevant authorities.

Boat accidents are a recurring challenge in several riverine communities across Nigeria, particularly during the rainy season when rising water levels and stronger currents increase the risk of water transport mishaps.