At least 31 people died when an overloaded boat struck a tree trunk on a river in north-central Nigeria. The tragedy occurred in Borgu, Niger State, while the vessel carried 90 passengers, officials confirmed Wednesday.
Hussaini Isah of Nigeria’s National Emergency Management Agency said 50 people have been rescued amid ongoing search efforts. Authorities remain uncertain about the exact number of missing passengers as rescue teams continue combing the river.
Boat accidents are frequent in Nigeria’s remote areas, especially during the rainy season, putting many at serious risk. Experts say these tragedies often result from overloaded, poorly maintained boats, frequently lacking life jackets for passengers.
Last month, a similar disaster left 25 people missing when a boat capsized in Sokoto State’s northwestern rivers. Analysts warn that without stricter safety enforcement, Nigeria’s rivers will continue to claim lives each rainy season.
The nation’s most populous status and vast waterways make effective regulation and rescue operations a persistent challenge. Families of the victims now await news, while authorities pledge to intensify safety monitoring to prevent further tragedies.