Niger State Mourns as Death Toll from Bida Fuel Tanker Explosion Rises to 42

The Niger State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic fuel tanker explosion that claimed 42 lives and left more than 60 others injured in the Essa community of the Bida–Badeggi–Agaie axis on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Murtala Bagana, the government conveyed its condolences to the victims and their families, describing the incident as a painful loss for the state.

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn with the people of Essa and the surrounding communities. This is a painful loss for our state. We stand in solidarity with all those affected,” Bagana said.

Acting on the directive of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, Bagana led a government delegation to the scene of the explosion and to hospitals where survivors are receiving treatment.

He disclosed that the governor had approved comprehensive and free medical care for all victims. Those with severe burns have been airlifted to the National Hospital, Gwagwalada, for advanced treatment, while others are being treated at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Bida and Agaie General Hospital.

Bagana, while commiserating with the bereaved families, warned residents against the dangerous act of scooping fuel from fallen tankers, stressing that such behaviour has repeatedly resulted in tragic outcomes across the country.

“We mourn with the affected families and pray for the souls of the departed. We also appeal to residents to avoid the dangerous act of scooping fuel from accident scenes. Our administration remains fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our people,” he added.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed that the fatalities included nine men, 24 women, and nine children, while the injured comprised men, women, and children who sustained varying degrees of burns.

Emergency response teams from the Police, DSS, NSCDC, FRSC, and local volunteers were mobilised to the area for rescue operations, which continued into the night as some residents remained unaccounted for.

Community leaders and eyewitnesses blamed the tragedy on the deplorable condition of the Bida–Badeggi–Agaie Road, urging both federal and state authorities to urgently rehabilitate the highway to prevent further disasters.

Meanwhile, the Niger State Government reiterated its commitment to enhancing road safety, improving emergency response systems, and rehabilitating key road infrastructure across the state to avert similar tragedies in the future.