The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), through its Kano Operations Office, has conducted an on-the-spot assessment of a tragic boat mishap that occurred on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Zangon Maje Village in Taura Local Government Area of Jigawa State. The unfortunate incident, which took place around 7:00 p.m., claimed the lives of nine individuals, mostly young girls, while eight others were rescued by local divers.
The ill-fated boat was en route from Digawa Village in Jahun Local Government Area to Zangon Maje Village when it capsized mid-journey, throwing all 17 passengers into the water. The swift intervention of community members and local divers led to the successful rescue of eight victims, though the lives of nine others could not be saved.
A team from NEMA visited the site on Wednesday, July 30, to ascertain the extent of the incident and offer preliminary support to the affected community. The NEMA delegation, working in collaboration with the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (JSEMA), the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and officials of the Taura Local Government Council, also engaged in intensive sensitisation of residents on water travel safety practices.
During the visit, NIWA donated several life jackets to the community, emphasizing the urgent need for boat operators and passengers to adhere strictly to safety regulations, especially the use of life jackets and avoidance of overloading.
The agency expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the community of its continuous support in promoting disaster risk reduction and life-saving awareness.
The tragic event has once again raised concerns over the safety of water transportation in rural communities, especially during the rainy season when rivers swell and become more dangerous. Stakeholders present called for stricter enforcement of maritime safety regulations and enhanced community sensitisation on emergency preparedness.
The assessment mission by NEMA is part of a broader effort to prevent further loss of lives through timely intervention, advocacy, and capacity building at the grassroots level. The agency reiterated its commitment to partnering with relevant bodies and traditional institutions in ensuring safer travel across all terrains in Nigeria.
