Seven drown in Gombe canoe accident , NEMA begins assessment

Abdullateef Fowewe

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Gombe Operations Office has acted swiftly following a devastating canoe mishap in Nafada Local Government Area, Gombe State, where seven people lost their lives.

The victims drowned after their canoe capsized amid strong currents and overloading while returning from their farmlands.

In a statement, NEMA said the team “immediately deployed to the scene to verify the incident and engage with relevant stakeholders, including the Gombe State Fire Service, local authorities, traditional leaders, and community volunteers.”

During the assessment visit, NEMA conducted an important sensitization campaign aimed at local divers and residents, emphasising “the dangers of overcrowding and the importance of using life jackets where possible.”

The agency also highlighted “the need for continuous community-level awareness on disaster risk reduction, particularly in riverine settlements where canoe transportation is commonly used.”

Expressing deep sympathy, NEMA Gombe Operations Office “expressed its condolences to the families of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting state authorities and community structures in promoting safe practices and preventing future occurrences.”