By Bavoriat Clara
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the recovery of three bodies in the ongoing search and rescue operations following the tragic boat mishap that occurred on Sunday, 17 August 2025, in Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
According to NEMA, the bodies were retrieved on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, from the river at Kojiyo, Bari, and Wuci communities through the combined efforts of NEMA officials, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Sokoto State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and local divers. With this development, the number of missing persons now stands at 22.
Earlier today, the NEMA Team Lead, Mr. Aliyu Shehu Kafindangi, secured the support of the 119 Composite Group of the Nigerian Air Force Disaster Response Unit (DRU). He briefed the Commander, Group Captain U.S. Maibuhu, on the incident and urged the unit to remain on high alert.Officials disclosed that the rescue operation has been supported by dam management efforts, which have slowed the water flow and reduced river levels, thereby improving search effectiveness.
NEMA has assured the public that search and rescue operations will continue to be intensified until all missing persons are accounted for.
Further updates are expected as operations progress.
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