Shiroro, Niger State | July 27, 2025 — At least 25 people, including a family of ten, have lost their lives in a devastating boat accident in the Gunu community of Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State.
The tragic incident occurred around 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, when a heavily loaded boat capsized en route to the Kwata-Zumba weekly market. The vessel was reportedly carrying both traders and farm produce, with the exact number of passengers still unconfirmed.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the mishap in a statement issued by its Director General, Hon. Abdullahi Baba Arah.
“NSEMA has received a report of a boat mishap incident which occurred today, 26th July 2025, around 11:45 a.m. when a boat loaded with commodities and an unspecified number of passengers capsized,” the statement read.
Arah noted that rescue efforts were immediately launched, involving NSEMA officers, local divers, and volunteers. So far, only a few passengers, including the boat operator, have been rescued. One survivor is currently receiving treatment at General Hospital, Kuta, headquarters of Shiroro LGA.
The Sarkin Ruwa of Zumba, Umar Isah, also confirmed the incident, estimating that about 25 lives were lost.
“The boat operator did not have a passenger manifest, but a family of ten is confirmed dead, and another family has reported five missing members,” he said.
As of the time of this report, search and recovery operations are ongoing, and the final death toll may rise.
Recurring Maritime Safety Concerns
Saturday’s tragedy adds to the growing list of boat mishaps across Nigeria, particularly in rural communities where overloading, poorly maintained vessels, and lack of regulation continue to endanger lives.
State authorities have yet to issue an official directive or announce an investigation into the cause of the accident.
NSEMA has urged riverine travelers and transport operators to adhere strictly to safety protocols, including passenger limits and the use of life jackets, to prevent further loss of lives.