Boat capsizes in Nigeria leaving dozens dead

An overcrowded boat carrying passengers to rice fields capsized on Thursday morning in the Goronyo area of Sokoto state, northwestern Nigeria. While local officials and initial reports confirmed the recovery of approximately 40 bodies—mostly children aged 10 to 15—some local witnesses reported that at least 51 people lost their lives in the tragedy. The vessel was reportedly carrying more than 70 passengers when it overturned while crossing a stream.

Rescue operations are currently underway as authorities collect further data on the incident. Deadly shipwrecks are a recurring issue in Nigeria, frequently attributed to vessel overloading, poor maintenance, and a lack of adherence to safety regulations. Previous incidents this year include a shipwreck in Yobe state in January and another in Jigawa state last month, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding inland water transport safety in the country.