Lagos boat accident claims six lives, four rescued

A tragic boat accident along the Nigerdock axis of the Igbologun Water Channel in Lagos has claimed at least six lives, while four others were successfully rescued.

In a joint statement released on Wednesday, LASWA and NIWA confirmed that the vessel—a Savvy Marine passenger boat—capsized at approximately 8:35 p.m. on Tuesday while traveling from Ilashe Beach House.

Upon receiving a distress call, search and rescue teams, supported by the Marine Police and other first responders, were immediately deployed to the scene.

“As of the time of this report, four passengers have been successfully rescued and transported to a nearby hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention.

“Sadly, six other passengers were found dead at the scene. Search and rescue operations remain ongoing to account for all persons involved,” it stated.

The statement further emphasised that preliminary findings indicated the incident may have been caused by a collision with a submerged object.

It added that further investigations are still ongoing to fully ascertain the cause of the mishap.

“LASWA and NIWA wish to assure the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted, and further updates will be communicated as more information becomes available.

” LASWA and NIWA extend their deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims and assure the public of their continued commitment to ensuring safety on Lagos’ inland waterways,” the statement said.

The authorities also reiterated the importance of adherence to all safety regulations, including proper navigation practices and compliance with the night travel rule.

They advised members of the public to remain calm and rely only on verified information from LASWA/NIWA and other official sources.

Earlier, in December, NIWA and LASWA launched a festive-season safety campaign to protect travellers during heavy travel periods, especially in December when water traffic surges.

The campaign stresses strict adherence to safety rules such as the use of life jackets, maintaining passenger manifests, avoiding night trips, and conducting routine vessel checks before departure.

Joint search and rescue teams and intensified patrols are also part of these strategies to deter unsafe practices and enhance surveillance across key waterways.