Tragedy struck on Monday in Nigeria’s middle belt state of Niger after a boat carrying 100 passengers capsized.
A yet to be ascertain number of persons reportedly lost their lives in the mishap.
The boat, which was also carrying goods, grains and other valuables, capsized in Borgu Local Government area of the state.
The Director-General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, Alhaji Abdullahi Baba-Arah, confirmed the incident in a statement in Minna on Monday.
According to the agency, the boat took off from Dugga Mashaya in Dugga ward heading towards Wara market in Kebbi State.
Baba-Arah disclosed that the boat was conveying passengers estimated to be around 100, including goods, grains and other valuables.
According to him, the Niger emergency agency is yet to ascertain the number of deaths and survivors of the boat accident.
He said search-and-rescue operations were ongoing by local divers, the agency desk officers and local government officials.