At least 40 children dead after boat capsizes in Nigeria

On August 20, 2026, an overloaded boat capsized in the Goronyo area of Sokoto state, northwest Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of at least 40 children. Local official Abdulkadir Yusuf of the Inland Waterways Authority confirmed the recovery of approximately 40 bodies following the incident, which occurred in the morning. The vessel was reportedly carrying over 70 passengers, including farmers, workers, and children aged 10 to 15, who were traveling to nearby rice fields for planting and harvesting activities.

Rescue operations involving local divers are currently ongoing, and authorities fear the final death toll may rise as the search continues. The incident highlights recurring safety issues with maritime transport in Nigeria, where overloaded vessels frequently operate with insufficient safety measures. Similar tragic accidents are documented in the region, such as a January incident in Yobe state that claimed at least 25 lives. Local leader Shakrin Dazi confirmed the purpose of the commute as agricultural labor, while local residents assist in the ongoing recovery efforts.