Two feared drowned as Nigeria's NEMA, KADSEMA intensify search in Kaduna river

Emergency agencies are intensifying search and rescue efforts for two men feared drowned after being swept away by the Kaduna River following a heavy downpour. The victims, identified as Musa Musa Bawa, a 200-level nursing student, and Abubakar Ibrahim Muhammad Likoro, an Olam Flour Mills employee, were reportedly attempting to cross the swollen river on Saturday evening.

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Upon receiving the distress call, we immediately mobilised personnel and activated the emergency response team to the scene. Local divers and emergency responders have been searching the river since Sunday morning.

Hajiya Halima Suleiman, Head of NEMA Operations Office in Kaduna, confirmed that the agency activated its emergency response team upon receiving a distress call. The operation, which began Sunday morning in the Hayin Mallam Bello community, involves personnel from NEMA, the Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency (KADSEMA), the Kaduna State Fire Service, local divers, and other responders.

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Despite the coordinated efforts of all responding agencies, the two victims had yet to be found as of the time of this report. The search will continue until they are located.

Despite coordinated efforts, the two victims had not been located as of Monday. Suleiman assured the families and residents that the agencies would sustain the operation until the missing persons are recovered. She commended the dedication of the emergency personnel and local volunteers working under challenging conditions.

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We remain committed to this operation. Together with our partners, we will continue the search until the victims are found.

Suleiman also visited the families of the missing men to offer sympathy and encourage hope. She urged the public to exercise extreme caution during the rainy season, advising against crossing flooded rivers, streams, or drainage channels due to significantly risen water levels. Residents are asked to report emergencies promptly. KADSEMA and the State Fire Service have deployed additional divers and equipment to expand the search area along the river.

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The water level has risen significantly due to the persistent rains, making such crossings extremely dangerous. We appeal to residents to prioritise their safety and promptly report emergencies to the appropriate authorities for immediate response.