
A tragic swimming outing ended in heartbreak for students of the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) after one student drowned and another narrowly escaped death at the Gwange River Bank in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The incident, which occurred around 7:00 p.m. on March 14, 2025, involved two friends — Abafras Abdiel from the Department of Forestry and Silas Sule from the Department of Geology — who had gone for a swim behind ECWA Church near the riverbank.
Eyewitnesses say the students were diving into the river when they suddenly disappeared beneath the water. An urgent distress call led to the swift mobilization of a combined rescue team, including local divers, police officers, and firefighters.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama confirmed that both students were pulled from the river and rushed to the State Specialist Hospital, Maiduguri. While Abdiel was revived and admitted for treatment, doctors sadly pronounced Sule dead on arrival. His body was transferred to the hospital mortuary for an autopsy and further investigation.
Authorities have since reiterated warnings to students and the public about the dangers of swimming in natural water bodies, especially during the dry season when river depths and currents become unpredictable.
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks involved, with university officials and local leaders urging residents to prioritize safety while enjoying recreational activities near water.


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