Abuja: Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued 13 people and recovered 27 bodies after a boat carrying traders capsized in Nguru Local Government Area of Yobe State.
A military source revealed on Monday that the accident occurred around 12:15 a.m. on January 4, when a boat ferrying 40 traders from Adiani village in Jigawa to Nguru market overturned in the Garbi riverine area.
Troops of the 241 Battalion, working with other security agencies and local divers, swiftly mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation. “The combined effort led to the successful rescue of 13 victims alive, while 27 bodies were recovered from the river,” the source said.
Arrangements are being made for the burial of the deceased in line with Islamic rites, while authorities continue to manage the aftermath of the tragedy. The source reaffirmed the army’s commitment to supporting civil authorities and responding promptly to emergencies within its area of responsibility.
Riverine accidents remain a recurring challenge in Nigeria, often linked to night travel, overloading, and poor safety measures.