By Rakiya A.Muhammad
Flood-prone local government areas in Sokoto welcome the news of the planned distribution of motorized boats and life-saving jackets, following recent tragedies that have heightened the need for action.
Sokoto State has witnessed a troubling rise in canoe mishaps in recent weeks, with three incidents occurring last month alone.
In response, the state government will distribute motorized boats and life jackets to flood-prone areas.
Local Government Areas to benefit include Shagari, Goronyo, Wurno, Rabah, Wamakko, Silame, Kebbe, Tambuwal, Sabon-Birni, and Isa.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu inspected the boats and jackets procured for the LGAs ahead of distribution.
The state government said distribution will begin after operators finish training to ensure safe handling.
In August 2025, three separate accidents were reported, occurring consecutively over the course of three weeks.
The first accident occurred on Sunday, August 17, when a canoe capsized with over 50 passengers on board. Twenty-five people were rescued that day, while others remained missing.
About five days later, on Friday, August 22, a second canoe accident occurred in Garin-faji, Sabon-Birni Local Government Area, resulting in six fatalities.
The third mishap took place on Thursday, August 28, at the Jaranja River in Shagari Local Government Area, where two lives were lost.
Experts noted powered boats and life-saving jackets increase survivability and safety for the vulnerable riverine communities.
