Authorities in Nigeria’s Kogi State confirmed Thursday that at least 26 people lost their lives when a boat carrying traders capsized on the River Niger.

According to Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, the incident occurred when the vessel departed from Ibaji district in Kogi State, heading to a market in Ilushi, Edo State.

The boat overturned mid-journey, leaving dozens of passengers in the water.

Fatal accidents on Nigeria’s waterways are frequent, often linked to overcrowding, poor vessel maintenance, and a lack of basic safety measures such as life jackets.

Officials have repeatedly warned operators against these practices, but enforcement remains weak.

The risk of such accidents typically rises during the rainy season, when rivers swell and currents become stronger.

Despite the dangers, boats remain a vital means of transport in many rural parts of Nigeria, where road infrastructure is limited and alternative options are scarce.