The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that 24 passengers were rescued, 14 bodies recovered, and 42 others remain missing after a boat mishap on the River Niger in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State. The accident occurred around 5:40 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, when a boat carrying roughly 80 people capsized while traveling from Onugwa community to Olushi village.
In a statement released on Thursday via its official X handle, NEMA said its Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, promptly mobilized the agency’s Abuja Operations Office to support local responders at the scene. According to the agency, search and rescue operations began immediately, leading to the rescue of 24 passengers. Unfortunately, 14 bodies have been recovered, while 42 people are still unaccounted for.
The operation is being carried out in collaboration with several stakeholders, including the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency, the Local Emergency Management Committee in Ibaji, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the National Inland Waterways Authority, the Fire Service, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, community members, and local divers.
NEMA emphasized that the joint effort demonstrates the value of interagency cooperation in responding to disasters effectively. Officials also visited the traditional ruler of Onugwa, Chief Patrick Arome, to sympathize with the community. The agency further stressed the need for strict adherence to water safety regulations, such as the mandatory use of life jackets and compliance with passenger limits.
Reacting to the tragedy, President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sorrow, describing the incident as “shocking and unfortunate.” In a condolence message issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commended the swift action of first responders and urged all levels of government and emergency agencies to intensify rescue and support efforts. He appealed to boat operators to place safety above profit and prayed for comfort for the bereaved families as well as a speedy recovery for the survivors.
NEMA assured that community divers continue to work alongside official teams and promised to provide further updates as the search and recovery efforts progress. The agency also reiterated that boat accidents remain a recurring problem in Nigeria’s riverine regions, often caused by overcrowding, poorly maintained vessels, and disregard for safety protocols.