By Abdullahi Lukman
Nearly two months after a fatal canoe accident claimed several lives in Ngarbi/Bombori community of Nguru Local Government Area, the North East Development Commission (NEDC), in partnership with the Yobe State Government, has delivered rescue boats, life jackets and relief materials to improve water safety and emergency response in the area.
The intervention follows the January 3 canoe mishap involving passengers travelling from Adiyani community in Jigawa State to Ngarbi in Yobe, a tragedy that highlighted the risks faced by residents who rely heavily on waterways for transportation and commerce.
At a symbolic handover ceremony held at the riverbank where the incident occurred, emergency responders, government officials and community members witnessed the distribution of newly procured safety equipment aimed at preventing future disasters.
Speaking at the event, NEDC Yobe State Coordinator, Prof. Ali Ibrahim Abbas, said the support was designed not only for Ngarbi but for other riverine communities across the state.
He explained that the commission’s goal is to strengthen safety standards, enhance emergency preparedness and reduce accidents linked to water transportation.
He added that relief materials would also be shared with victims’ families, volunteer rescue teams and community leaders, particularly during the Ramadan period.
Receiving the items on behalf of the state government, the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Mohammed Goje, commended the NEDC for fulfilling its commitment and supporting ongoing disaster prevention efforts.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the safety-focused reforms of Governor Mai Mala Buni, which prioritise proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.
Dr. Goje, however, stressed that equipment alone would not eliminate water transport risks.
He warned against overloading boats and night travel, urging residents to wear life jackets at all times.
He added that security agencies and local vigilante groups would be mobilised to enforce compliance.
Also speaking, Nguru Local Government Chairman, Hon. Muhammad Mairami, represented by Council Secretary Ibrahim Mohammed, described the intervention as timely and reassuring for the affected community.
Community leader Lawan Goma Gana said the support would help prevent further loss of lives.
Items donated by the NEDC include 100 life jackets, 10 inflatable rescue boats equipped with paddles, pumps and toolkits, and two speed boats fitted with electric hydraulic davits to boost rapid response.
Food and non-food relief materials such as bags of rice, mats, blankets and children’s clothing were also distributed to affected families and vulnerable residents.
