The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) on Sunday, commiserated with the families of victims of boat accidents occured in Yobe and Lagos states.

Expressing its sympathy, the authority underscored the need for safety across inland waterways in Nigeria.

The authority expressed its condolences in a statement in Lokoja, by the Assistant General Manager Corporate Affairs of NIWA, Suleiman Makama.

He said that NIWA noted with discomfort the unfortunate boat accidents in both states, after an extensive accident-free period on the inland waterways.

“The authority commiserates with the families of the departed on the unfortunate accidents. NIWA shares in their grief and remain committed to intensify our surveillance activities and safety campaigns for safer waterways,” he said

He disclosed that in response to the accidents, the authority mobilised relevant facilities in conjunction with other relevant agencies towards a successful rescue efforts in Yobe State.

Consequently, Mr Makama urged waterways users to adhere strictly to safety guidelines at all times to avoid such unfortunate incidents. 

“It is important to remind Nigerians that the ban on night sailing is still in force; no passenger boat is permitted to be on the inland waterways beyond 6.00 p.m. It’s an offence to be on the inland waters without putting on the standard lifejacket; All boat operators are equally reminded to avoid speeding and overloading their boats at all times,” he said

According to him, NIWA has commenced investigations into the cause of the accidents, in collaboration with sister agencies.

He stated, “Consequently, appropriate action shall be taken promptly by the authorities after the findings.”

At least 25 people were reported dead, 13 rescued, while 14 others were still missing after a boat capsized on the Yobe River in Garbi town, Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The incident reportedly occurred at approximately 7:48 p.m. on Saturday when the boat was travelling from Adiyani town in the Guri Local Government Area of Jigawa State to Garbi town in Nguru LGA.

Also, on December 30, 2025, a boat accident involving a Savvy Marine passenger boat occurred at approximately 8:35 p.m., along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun water channel in Lagos State. 

(NAN)