Six passengers were recovered dead following a boat mishap involving a marine passenger vessel along the Niger Dock axis of the Igbologun water channel in Lagos.
Four other passengers were rescued alive and taken to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care.
According to the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), the incident happened at about 8:35pm on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, while the boat was en route from Ilashe Beach House.
The waterways authorities’ search and rescue operations were immediately activated after a distress alert was received.
Rescue efforts are still ongoing to account for all persons involved in the incident.
LASWA and NIWA search and rescue teams responded swiftly, working in collaboration with the Marine Police and other first responders at the scene.
LASWA disclosed that preliminary investigations suggest that the boat may have collided with a submerged object, though authorities stressed that investigations are continuing to determine the exact cause of the mishap.
LASWA and NIWA assured the public that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted and that further updates would be provided as more details emerge.
The authorities expressed deep condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring safety on Lagos inland waterways.
They reiterated the need for strict adherence to safety regulations, including proper navigation practices and compliance with the no-night-travel rule.
Members of the public have been advised to remain calm and rely only on verified information from LASWA, NIWA, and other official sources.
