Rescue efforts are underway in Sokoto State after a boat carrying more than 50 passengers capsized on Sunday morning, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed.

In a statement, NEMA disclosed: “About 10 persons have been rescued, while more than 40 passengers remain missing.”

The ill-fated boat was transporting passengers to Goronyo Market when it overturned. NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, said the agency immediately activated its emergency response upon receiving reports of the incident.

Read full statement by NEMA below:

NEMA, SOO COORDINATE EFFORTS TO RESCUE VICTIMS OF BOAT MISHAP

17th August, 2025

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Sokoto Operations Office (SOO), has deployed its response team to support ongoing rescue operations following a tragic boat mishap in Sokoto State today.

The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, activated the Agency’s response immediately after receiving reports that a boat conveying over 50 passengers to Goronyo Market had capsized.

As at the time of this report, about 10 persons have been rescued, while more than 40 passengers remain missing.

NEMA SOO, in collaboration with local authorities and emergency responders, is intensifying search and rescue operations to locate the missing persons.

The Agency reassures the public of its commitment to saving lives, providing timely updates, and coordinating all necessary support for the affected families.