A boat accident in Niger has led to numerous deaths, with many still feared missing. Get the latest news on this unfolding tragedy.

A devastating boat accident has occurred in Niger State when an overloaded vessel capsized on the Niger River, leaving over 150 passengers believed to have died.

The boat, carrying over 300 passengers, mostly women and children, was heading to a festival in Mould on Tuesday when the tragedy occurred.

The passengers were travelling from Mundi community to Gbajibo community for a religious festival when the boat capsized after failing to withstand the storm waves.

Eyewitnesses have reported that the vessel was extremely overloaded, which contributed to the accident.

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Rescue operations are ongoing. The Niger State Disaster Management Authority (NSEMA) is playing a lead role in collaboration with the state Ministry of Transportation, Mokwa Local Government Emergency Committee, local divers and community volunteers.

The Executive Director of NSEMA, Alhaji Abuslahi Baba Ala, confirmed the incident, saying:

The incident occurred at the Jebba Dam in Gbajibo County, Mokwa Sub-County.

As rescue teams continue to search for survivors, the tragedy highlights the dangers of overloaded boats and the need for stricter safety measures on Nigeria’s waterways.

The incident has left the affected communities in deep mourning and it is hoped that ongoing rescue operations will save more lives.