The Sokoto State Government has procured motorised boats and life jackets for distribution to flood-prone local government areas following recent multiple canoe mishaps that claimed several lives.

Benefiting councils include Shagari, Goronyo, Wurno, Rabah, Wamakko, Silame, Kebbe, Tambuwal, Sabon-Birni, and Isa.

Governor Ahmad Aliyu, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Muhammad Gobir, inspected the boats and safety kits ahead of their distribution. He said operators would undergo training to ensure safe handling before the boats are released.

Gobir, accompanied by senior officials including the Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, and the Chief of Staff, Alhaji Aminu Dikko, expressed satisfaction with the equipment’s quality and urged responsible use.

Sokoto has witnessed a spate of canoe accidents in recent weeks, prompting heightened media reports for proactive action to be taken.

On August 17, a canoe carrying over 50 passengers capsized, with 25 rescued and others missing. Five days later, six people died in Garin-faji, Sabon-Birni LGA. Another two fatalities were recorded on August 28 at the Jaranja River in Shagari LGA.