Boat capsizes in Jigawa, dozens missing and one dead

Rescue teams in northwestern Nigeria continued search operations on Monday, July 20, 2026, following a deadly boat capsize that has left many passengers missing and an unconfirmed number dead. The accident occurred on Sunday, July 19, in the Malamawar Yan Dutse community within the Ringim Local Government Area of Jigawa State.

Authorities confirmed that a local canoe carrying dozens of passengers, predominantly female farmers and agricultural laborers, capsized while crossing a waterway. The Jigawa State Police Command stated that one body had been recovered as of Monday, with efforts ongoing to locate many others who remain unaccounted for. Police spokesman Shiisu Adam said the boat was believed to be carrying around 40 people in total.

Conflicting casualty figures have emerged from different agencies. While police officials have indicated up to 40 people may have drowned, the National Emergency Management Agency reported a lower toll, confirming five deaths and stating that 15 passengers had been rescued, with up to 20 others still missing. The Director of Planning at the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency, Muhammad Sanusi, emphasized that the exact number of people on...