The joint search and rescue team has confirmed the rescue of 41 persons and the recovery of four bodies following the tragic boat mishap at Goronyo Dam in Sokoto State. The death toll rose after an additional body was recovered on Thursday, 21st August 2025. The deceased was laid to rest immediately after funeral prayers conducted in line with Islamic rites.
As part of Thursday’s operations, the response team visited Takuske, Kwakwazu, Bari, and Gamiha villages, where many victims of the accident resided. The visits enabled officials to verify the number of missing persons and commiserate with bereaved families. Authorities also confirmed that 16 people had survived the accident.
With the recovery of the last body, officials announced the conclusion of the multi-agency search and rescue operation.
The exercise was jointly conducted by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Goronyo Local Government Authority, and local divers.
The Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, commended the rescue team and stakeholders for their diligence and collaboration throughout the operation.
It will be recalled that the ill-fated boat capsized on Sunday, 17th August 2025, around Kojiyo village area of the Goronyo Dam.
