In a heartfelt gesture amid ongoing grief, Yobe State’s leadership has stepped forward with substantial financial aid for those impacted by a deadly boat mishap in the Nguru region.
The donation, amounting to N20 million, aims to provide immediate relief to survivors and bereaved families following the incident that struck Garbi town.
Deputy Governor Idi Gubana personally delivered the news during a sombre visit to the Nguru Emirate Council, where he met with affected community members to express solidarity.
“This support is our way of standing by you in this difficult time,” Gubana reportedly shared, emphasising that the funds would directly assist the injured and help families cope with their profound losses.
He also invoked prayers for peace and strength, urging divine comfort for all touched by the calamity.
Beyond financial help, Gubana instructed the State Emergency Management Agency to launch training programs focused on essential safety protocols for local boat handlers.
Looking ahead, the government pledged to invest in updated vessels and protective gear to make river travel safer across the area.
Gubana highlighted the dangers of overcrowding, noting it as a key factor behind such heartbreaking events, and called for stricter adherence to capacity limits.
According to the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), the accident resulted in 29 confirmed fatalities, with rescue efforts still underway.
The mishap occurred on January 3 when a vessel departing from Adiyani in nearby Jigawa State overturned in the turbulent waters of the River Yobe.
Carrying 52 individuals, mostly local farmers and merchants, the boat’s sudden capsize turned a routine journey into a nightmare.
Agency officials reported that 15 people were pulled to safety, while searches continue for the eight still unaccounted for.
“Divers are working tirelessly under our guidance to locate any survivors,” stated YOSEMA Executive Secretary Dr Mohammed Goje, underscoring the commitment to exhaustive recovery operations.
This incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced water transport safety in Nigeria’s northern regions, where river crossings are vital for daily commerce.
Community leaders in Nguru have welcomed the state’s response, hoping it sparks lasting improvements to prevent future tragedies.
As investigations proceed, Yobe authorities remain focused on supporting recovery and rebuilding trust in local waterways.