The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has disclosed no fewer than 14 people were killed and 42 still missing from the tragic boat mishap in Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State.
NEMA, in a statement posted on its X handle on Thursday, also disclosed that about 24 passengers of the ill-fated boat were rescued alive, through coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.
Deaths resulting from boat accidents in Nigeria have raised serious concerns, with some well-meaning Nigerians calling for an end to the menace.
According to reports, the Ibaji incident happened at about 5:40 p.m. on Tuesday, 30th September 2025, when a boat carrying about 80 passengers capsized while en route to Olushi village after departing from Onugwa community in Ibaji LGA.
NEMA said upon receiving the report, the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, immediately activated the Agency’s Abuja Operations Office, directing it to deploy personnel to the scene of the tragedy in support of ongoing local rescue efforts.
“The deployment underscores NEMA’s resolve to provide timely intervention and strengthen coordination with state and community responders. Search and Rescue (SAR) operations commenced swiftly, leading to the rescue of 24 passengers alive.
“Sadly, 14 corpses have so far been recovered, while 42 persons remain missing as efforts to locate and recover them continue. Community divers have been playing, a critical role in the rescue operation, complementing the work of official response agencies,” the agency said.
It said the operation remains ongoing and periodic updates would be provided as more information becomes available.
NEMA revealed that the rescue efforts are being coordinated with the active participation of multiple agencies and stakeholders, including: 1. National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) 2. Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (KOSEMA) 3. Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC), Ibaji 4. Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) 5. National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) 6. Fire Service 7. Nigerian Red Cross Society 8. Local divers and community members.
The joint effort, according to the agency, underscores the importance of multi-agency collaboration in tackling disasters and ensuring timely response.
NEMA said its response team, led by the Head of Abuja Operations Office, Mr Zakari Abubakar has also visited the traditional ruler of Onugwa community, Chief Patrick Arome, and commiserate with him and the people over the tragic incident.
“The tragedy further highlights the urgent need for strict compliance with water safety regulations, including the use of life jackets and enforcement of passenger limits on boats,” it noted.
