One Dead, 39 Missing After Boat Carrying Farmers Capsizes in Jigawa

At least one person has been confirmed dead, while 39 others remain missing, after a local boat carrying more than 40 passengers, mostly female farmers and labourers, capsized in Malamawar Yan Dutse community in Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State. The incident occurred at about 4:30 p.m. on Sunday as the passengers were travelling to their farms.

Confirming the incident, the Jigawa State Police Command said it immediately deployed officers and other emergency responders to the scene after receiving reports of the accident. Police spokesperson SP Shi'isu Adam said one body had been recovered, while search and rescue operations were continuing to locate the remaining passengers who were still unaccounted for.

The Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) also confirmed the tragedy, noting that most of the victims were female farmers and labourers. Officials said the exact cause of the boat accident has not yet been established, adding that assessments and rescue efforts are still ongoing. Local divers and residents have joined emergency responders in the search operation.

Boat accidents remain a recurring challenge in parts of northern Nigeria, particularly during the rainy season, with many incidents linked to overloading, failure to use life jackets and strong water currents. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information as rescue operations continue.