At least 54 people have died and dozens remain missing after a boat, reportedly carrying over 200 passengers, capsized on River Niger early Friday.
Authorities confirmed 24 survivors, some hospitalized, as divers continue searching, though hopes of finding more survivors are fading.
The vessel, traveling from Kogi to a market in Niger state, likely lacked safety compliance, with many passengers reportedly without life jackets.
Governor Usman Ododo has ordered hospitals to provide survivors with full care and called for stricter enforcement of safety rules.
This marks Nigeria’s third major boat accident in 60 days, highlighting ongoing risks on the country’s inland waterways.