The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has reported that 24 passengers were rescued, 14 bodies recovered, and 42 people remain missing following a boat accident on the River Niger in Ibaji Local Government Area, Kogi State.

NEMA, in a post shared on X today 2nd October 2025, said the incident, which occurred on Tuesday 30th September 2025, involved a boat carrying about 80 passengers travelling from Onugwa community to Olushi village in Ibaji LGA.

It noted that community divers are actively assisting official rescue teams, and the operation is ongoing with updates to follow.

The agency also emphasised that the rescue efforts are being coordinated with the active participation of multiple agencies and stakeholders, including the Kogi State Emergency Management Agency, the Local Emergency Management Committee, Ibaji, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the National Inland Waterways Authority, the Fire Service, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, local divers, and community members.