Terror Attacks, River Accidents Leave Dozens Dead Across Nigeria

By Emmanuel Miracle Naomi
Dozens of lives have been lost in renewed violence and river accidents across Nigeria, deepening the country’s humanitarian crisis and raising concerns about safety and governance.
In Borno State, fresh attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents on communities in Bama and Monguno local government areas left more than 60 people dead and several others abducted. Witnesses said gunmen set homes and farmlands ablaze, forcing entire families to flee into nearby bushes. Many of the victims were civilians who had only recently returned from displacement camps under government resettlement programs.
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume condemned the killings and urged authorities to strengthen military presence and intelligence operations in the region. Security analysts have warned that renewed insurgent activities could reverse gains made in stabilizing the North-East.
In a separate tragedy, at least 26 people, including women and children, died after a boat capsized on the Niger River near Ibaji in Kogi State. Local officials said the vessel, which was ferrying traders and goods to a nearby market, was overloaded and lacked life jackets. Rescue efforts recovered several bodies, while others remain missing. The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) said over 300 Nigerians have died in boat accidents this year alone, blaming poor regulation and weak enforcement of safety standards.
Humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), have expressed concern that continued insecurity, displacement, and transportation hazards are worsening living conditions for millions of vulnerable Nigerians. Many displaced families now face food shortages, inadequate shelter, and limited access to health care.
Federal and state authorities have promised tighter security measures in affected communities and stricter monitoring of waterway transport. However, residents and local leaders remain skeptical, citing repeated promises in the past that failed to prevent further tragedy.