At least 11 people were killed after a passenger boat capsized during heavy rainfall in Nigeria's central Benue State, local authorities said.

Nura Umar, a security official in Benue State, said the vessel was traveling from the Wadata area to Daududawada when it overturned in a river amid severe weather conditions.

According to Umar, the victims included a pregnant woman and six children.

The boat was carrying approximately 40 passengers at the time of the accident, he said.

Search and rescue operations remained underway as emergency responders continued efforts to locate possible survivors and account for all those on board.

Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding the cause of the accident, while investigations are expected to continue.

Boat accidents are relatively common in parts of Nigeria, particularly during the rainy season, when heavy rainfall, strong currents and limited safety measures can increase risks on rivers and inland waterways.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over water transport safety as authorities continue rescue efforts in Benue State.(ILKHA)