Sokoto Boat Mishap: NEMA Confirms 25 Rescued, 25 Still Missing

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that 25 persons have been rescued, while 25 others remain missing, following Sunday’s tragic boat mishap in Kojiyo village, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

In a statement issued on Monday by its Head of Press Unit, Manzo Ezekiel, the agency disclosed that 15 additional passengers were rescued during ongoing search and rescue operations, adding to the 10 earlier rescued shortly after the incident.

According to the statement, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, assured that the operation would be sustained and intensified until all missing persons are accounted for.

“Efforts are ongoing to rescue the remaining passengers. The operation will continue without let-up until every missing person is found,” the statement read.

The mishap occurred on Sunday when a canoe carrying over 50 traders en route to Goronyo Market capsized. Authorities said the canoe was also conveying seven motorcycles, which have since been recovered from the river.

Local divers, emergency responders, and security agencies are said to be collaborating in the rescue mission, while residents of the community have been urged to remain calm as authorities work to avert further tragedy.

The Sokoto State government has not yet released an official casualty figure, but sources said fears remain high as several victims are still unaccounted for.