More bodies have been recovered from the Gbajibo River in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, following a tragic boat accident on Tuesday night.
A wooden boat carrying 300 passengers capsized, leading to a massive search and rescue operation. So far, 70 bodies have been recovered, and 150 people have been rescued, while the search for the remaining passengers continues.
The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and local divers, is leading the recovery efforts.
President Bola Tinubu expressed his condolences to the people and government of Niger State following the tragedy. He commiserated with the families of the victims and prayed for the repose of the souls of those lost.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President directed NIWA to investigate the frequent occurrence of boat accidents in Niger State and across the country.
He instructed the authority to enhance surveillance of inland waters, enforce safety regulations, and prosecute boat operators who violate the ban on night sailing.
Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, also expressed deep sadness over the incident, vowing to strengthen enforcement of water transportation laws to prevent future tragedies.
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