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  • Mokwa flood a national disaster, says Niger deputy governor

    Mokwa flood a national disaster, says Niger deputy governor

    …says more non-indigenes affected

    Deputy Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu Garba, has described the recent Mokwa flood as a national disaster, revealing that a majority of those affected were non-indigenes from over 15 different states residing in the area.

    Garba disclosed this while receiving a condolence delegation from Veritas University, Abuja. He explained that the scale of the disaster warranted national attention, as victims included people from various ethnic groups, including Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, and others.

    Read Also: Mokwa flood: North-South rail services to resume soon

    “The Mokwa flood incident is a national disaster. People think we say that just because it happened in Niger State, but when you look at the statistics, even though I don’t have the exact figures now, more non-indigenes were affected than indigenes,” he said.

    He called on religious institutions and leaders to pray for the country in light of the many disasters occurring nationwide. He also appreciated the support the state has received so far, saying no donation is too small.

    “Even if it is just a pinch of salt we receive, it is significant. The victims of this flood will still be feeling the impact a year from now due to the scale of their losses,” Garba added.

    Speaking on behalf of Veritas University, the Vice Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Ichoku—represented by Rev. Fr. Peter Bakwaph—said the institution visited to show solidarity with the state, especially as some of their students and their families were affected by the disaster.

    Veritas University donated 150 mattresses, mosquito nets, cartons of waterguard, and torchlights to support the flood victims.

  • The Mokwa flood tragedy

    The Mokwa flood tragedy

    Another lesson in prevention being better than cure

    For the people of Mokwa Local Government in Niger State, the paradox of this year’s May 29 Democracy Day will remain indelible in their history. Instead of the usual celebratory ambience of the day, there were reportedly hundreds of deaths, cases of missing persons and destruction of property as a result of massive flooding and an alleged broken dam, giving the state one of its worst flooding in 60 years.

    We regret this tragic incident which sadly adds to the gory statistics by the Centre for Research on Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED) that reported that from 1969 to 2022, flooding incidents in Nigeria have resulted in approximately 21,000 deaths, with a national loss of about US$17billion. For a developing country like Nigeria, these statistics are huge.

    The most recent devastating effects of flooding across the country were recorded in 2022 when, from Kogi to Bayelsa, Kebbi to Kwara, and indeed across all geopolitical zones, people died, farmlands were washed away, families joined the ever growing number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the country. That year’s flooding, apart from the huge loss of lives contributed a great deal to the food insecurity that subsists even till today, as many farmlands were washed away and some farmers lost their investments, as most of them had borrowed money from banks.

    We acknowledge that flooding is a global problem as nature would always take its course in addition to human errors and negligence that ought to mitigate the huge impacts. However, what makes the difference between Nigeria and other climes is that there is almost total amnesia about incidents such as flooding here. A lot of effort is put by governments in other climes into mitigating the impacts of natural disasters such as flooding, given the huge impact of human-induced climate change.

    The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) had on February 20, 2024, warned about chances of early rains and flooding in some states during its 2024 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) in Abuja. In early 2025, the agency again warned about flooding in some states. Surprisingly, no noticeable efforts have been made by most governments to prepare for either public enlightenment, cleaning up of the environment, re-evaluation of the state of dams, relocation or evacuation of people from flood-prone zones or indeed any actions that could mitigate disasters such as the Mokwa case.

    We are surprised that there are conflicting figures of the dead, the missing and the displaced in Mokwa. This, to us, is unacceptable. Human lives are involved. Understandably, there are no current census figures for accuracy but we expect that the tiers of government that collect revenues from these people should have records. The politicians that hold leadership positions often know about voting numbers from each ward and community, they have grassroots representations, why then are there opaque details about the dead, the missing and the displaced?

    Governments at all levels exist to ensure the welfare and security of lives and property. We are tempted to ask what all the elected officials assume their roles are in a democracy. Is it just to care about their votes? While we acknowledge that no single politician can be held responsible for disasters such as this, we are compelled to remind them that they ask for votes from the people and are very familiar with the environment in ways that their being elected gives them the mandate to be hands on in making and executing policies that can either prevent or ameliorate the devastating impacts of some of these disasters through better planning and strategic engagements.

    Human negligence in developing countries often go unpunished because there are often no impactful systemic accountability. While we mourn and count losses in Mokwa, many other flooding incidents may still catch us napping, with devastating outcomes. The last NiMET predictions indicated that about 30 of Nigeria’s 36 states would experience massive flooding with the onset of rainy season in 2025. We wonder at this time what actions the governments, through their various agencies have taken to prepare the people to be safe as the rains increase?

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    The ministries of environment, lands and housing, works and urban development and water resources exist at both state and federal levels. What do they do with their allocations? Why are our dams always collapsing? Why do they not work towards getting ready for environmental disasters, especially with the repeated problems with bordering countries like Cameroon? They keep warning about letting water out of their dams that often exacerbate the flood problems across the coastal areas.  Just few months after the Alau Dam collapse in Maidugri in September 2024 caused havoc, why didn’t the ministries mentioned take action to assess the state of dams in the country?

    The fact that Nigerian agencies do not plan well for seasons is a great contributor to flooding incidents. Most of the agencies are interlinked in their functions. The ministry of urban planning and housing should be able to properly regulate buildings and urban planning to prevent blockage of canals and water ways. The ministry of environment must make sure the people obey environmental laws that lead to the blockages that cause flooding. The tiers of government must be willing to create enough awareness for the citizens to prevent the serious effects of environmental disasters.

    The concentration of the agencies of government in cities and state capitals leaves the rural areas that have the majority of citizens vulnerable to nature’s fury. There must be more proactive actions that can help reduce the number of deaths and property loses. There must be more awareness for citizen participation in caring for the environment. There are ecological and social factors that increase the dangers of flooding and the governments must not only wait for emergency relief periods to act. Prevention is always better than cure.

    We regret also that most victims in Nigeria are often nameless and faceless even when governments at the state and federal levels often promise to send palliatives to victims’ families. This is a failure of data and statistics. Accountability is a great part of development. Citizenship is enhanced when government gives every individual a sense of belonging and value. The Mokwa victims are as usual mere statistical guesses.

    Families might never have closure as even the rescue mission was hampered by many factors like lack of equipment and access to the communities. Many countries invest in training and sea and air rescue strategies like specialised rescue boats and helicopters. We just hope that the Mokwa tragedy can be a wake-up call for other susceptible states. We can’t continue to invest in emergency relief materials without planning for prevention, which is often more impactful. Development comes from citizens who are well taken care of to be productive.

  • Residents count losses, begin new life after Mokwa flood disaster

    Residents count losses, begin new life after Mokwa flood disaster

    • Battle trauma, displacement, slow recovery

    Other than the massive loss of lives, among the damages caused by the flood disaster that occurred in Mokwa, a community in Niger State, penultimate Thursday was the sweeping away of three bridges connecting many communities to the outside world. Stranded residents can do nothing other than cross the stream with a canoe or by themselves.

    Residents of Rabba, one of the communities affected by the flood and had its bridge washed off are now left practically stranded. The community is home to more than 7,000 people, most of whom depend on that single bridge for their livelihoods and daily needs.

    The bridge had served as a lifeline, linking children to the two schools within the community, enabling access to a local health centre, and allowing goods to flow between Rabba and the nearby Mokwa town. With the bridge gone, movement is restricted.

    A visit by our correspondent revealed some school children wading through water to make their way to school, such that by the time they get to school, their uniforms were soaked.

    Fortunately, their books are wrapped in nylon while some other children who were afraid of the waters had to skip school for the week.

    Although Rabba, one of the communities affected by the devastating flood, recorded no deaths, there were other severe losses experienced by the people.

    According to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, the flood washed away the only bridge that connected them to neighboring towns, schools, markets, and hospitals with over 10 houses affected.

    Adamu Jubril Rabba said the flood disrupted lives as the collapsed bridge meant more than just inconvenience as it is also a daily reminder of isolation, struggle and neglect.

    Rabba said: “The flood has affected us badly because the bridge linking Rabba community to other communities has collapsed and some of the pupils from other communities come down to Rabba through the bridge to study.

    “Following the devastated flood, the students have to cross the stream to school daily.”

    He disclosed that several farms along with their crops were washed away while several health workers who lived in neighbourhood communities had not been able to get to the health centre, creating a gap in access to health.

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    A trader in Mokwa town, Hajiya Salamatu, bemoaned her loss when our correspondent spoke to her on Thursday. “We are now living like an island. Customers can’t come into our community and we can’t go out to buy goods. Everything is at a standstill,” she said.

    In the days following the disaster, the community launched a self-help initiative, raising funds and contributing labour to construct a temporary wooden bridge to enable movement.

    As at 2pm on Thursday, the wooden bridge was completed to enable movement for people, light vehicles and motorcycles.

    “It was purely a communuty driven effort. People donated money to us which we used in buying planks and wood. And the youths in the community joined hands to build the bridge, so we did not have to pay for labour,” Rabba said.

    One of the elders in the community said: “This bridge is the only route connecting us to Mokwa for food supplies, healthcare, and education. We could not wait indefinitely.”

    Some of the survivors are still looking for their loved ones with government declaring more than 2,000 people missing. A visit to the affected communities, especially Mokwa, revealed the youth and family members going round in search of their missing relatives. Dead bodies are discovered daily as the people are not relenting in their search.

    The moving tales of the victims appeared endless. Farida Isyaku, one of the victims who was still crying over the losses, said the water came from nowhere and swept away her husband, co-wife and seven children, adding that she was rescued and taken to the hospital while the water was sweeping her away on Rabba Road.

    Saying she was not able to save anything in the flood, she recalled that her husband had come home with a huge sum of money the nught before the flood occured but she lost everything, including her beloved husband.

    Farida said she had accepted her fate, believing that her loved ones had gone to Paradise

    The flood had left many people homelrss in Mokwa. At the last count, over 3,000 people had been displaced.

    The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) said the devastating flood had left the victims traumatised, describing the situation in the area as “massive.”

    The Information Officer, Husseini Ibrahim, said the displaced persons were not willing to relocate to the temporary shelter provided for them due to the mental impact of the scale of the incident. He said majority of the affected people preferred to.stay with their relatives who were not affected to moving into relief camps for fear of congestion and discomfort.

    Ibrahim said: “There has been confusion everywhere. People lost their lives, their properties, and their means of livelihood.

    “That is what we call a disaster. Over 3,000 people were affected. Many are disturbed psychologically. This has distorted their normal ways of living.

    “Those that were easily affected are resisting going to the relief camps because the community is like a single community. They are all related to each other.

    “But we are gradually talking to them, and they are beginning to accept our position that they should be in the camps.”

    The Niger State Government has moved all its activities to the affected flood site in Mokwa to oversee the various humanitarian supports and donations it has been receiving.

    UNICEF has erected tents for the victims and has deployed a medical team to Tiffin Manza Primary School in Mokwa to assist children and pregnant women affected by the recent flooding in the Unguwan Hausawa area of Mokwa Local Government Area.

    The Agency is also helping the affected children to ease their emotional trauma by organising recreational activities.

    UNICEF’s Water and Hygiene Specialist, Teresa Pamma said the deployment aims to ensure that affected residents have access to essential healthcare services and to prevent the outbreak of diseases following the flood.

    Teresa explained that the team would also provide specialised care for pregnant women to ensure they receive proper medical attention and were protected from illnesses that could harm them or their unborn babies.

    One of the beneficiaries, Fatima Jibrin, who lost four children in the flood, expressed appreciation to UNICEF for the timely medical support, saying that it helped to stabilise her remaining child and helped other people who were affected.

    The state government has so far recieved over N400 million in donations from various individuals, organizations and groups in support to the victims alongside thousands of bags of rice.

    The town of Mokwa recieved its largest influx of guests it had ever seen since its existence as a result of dignitaries coming to condole with the victims of the flood disaster.

    From the Vice President to ministers, founders of organisations, international groups and associations.

    But despite these visits, the affected people are concerned as to when the bodies of their missing loved ones would be found.

  • House of Reps sympathises with Niger govt over flood in Mokwa

    House of Reps sympathises with Niger govt over flood in Mokwa

    The House of Representatives Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness has extended its heartfelt condolences to the people of Niger State, especially those impacted by the devastating flood disaster in Mokwa town, Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State.

    Rt. Hon. Joseph Bassey, Chairman, House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, said this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

    Bassey, who represents Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Constituency in the House, said the recent flood, which occurred on May 29, 2025, has brought immense suffering and loss to the good people of Mokwa. 

    The release further stated that the floodwaters submerged several parts of the town, killing at least 159 people, injuring 11, and leaving many missing. 

    The destruction of homes, businesses, and infrastructure has left many without shelter, food, or access to basic necessities.

    “As the Chairman of the House Committee on Emergency and Disaster Preparedness, I want to assure the people of Niger State that we stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives.

    Read Also: Niger govt receives over N203m, rice donations for Mokwa flood victims

    “We commend the Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), for its swift and comprehensive response to the recent flooding in Mokwa, Niger State. NEMA has provided critical relief materials, medical care, and shelter to the affected communities, demonstrating a strong commitment to humanitarian support. This prompt intervention has been crucial in alleviating the suffering of thousands displaced by the disaster.

    “We emphasize the need for enhanced preparedness measures to mitigate the impact of future disasters, including infrastructure development and community education.

    “We appreciate the efforts of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other stakeholders working tirelessly to rescue those affected and provide relief materials.

    “Let us come together as a nation to support our brothers and sisters in Niger State during this challenging time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families”, the release stated.

  • Tinubu vows to rebuild, restore flood-hit Mokwa

    Tinubu vows to rebuild, restore flood-hit Mokwa

    • ‘It’s a tragedy shared by all’

    “We will rebuild. We will restore the vibrancy for which Mokwa is known.’’

    This was President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s message of hope to the people of Mokwa, Niger State, who lost over 207 of their loved ones and hundreds of houses swept away by floods last week.

    To walk the talk, the President announced N2 billion for the reconstruction of the affected communities and directed that 20 trucks loaded with grains be dispatched to the ‘’actual victims’’ of the disaster.

    He also ordered Environment Minister Balarabe Lawal to relocate to the state to ensure immediate intervention under the ACReSAL (Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes) drainage project in Mokwa town.

    ACReSAL is a World Bank-financed project designed to tackle the pressing issues of land degradation and climate change in 19 states of Northern Nigeria.

    The distribution of the food items to the victims is to be done in collaboration with the Village Head (Ndalile of Mokwa), Mohammed Shaba.

    The state government, which on Tuesday put the death toll at 208 with 84 missing, said yesterday that 13,354 people were impacted by the flood.

    Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Tinubu, was on arrival in Mokwa received by Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba; some senior state officials, the Ndalile of Mokwa and the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar. 

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    Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris and Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi – both from Niger State –  accompanied the Vice-President.

    Shettima did an aerial inspection of the flood-affected areas.

    Addressing the people, Shettima said: “His Excellency, President Tinubu, sends his heartfelt condolences and stands in solidarity with you during this trying time.

    “He has directed immediate action to assess the damage and provide the necessary support to aid your recovery.

    “We will rebuild. We will restore the vibrancy for which Mokwa is known. While this disaster is devastating, it will not define you.

    “The greatest honour we can give to those we have lost in this regrettable tragedy is our commitment to a future where such disasters are reduced through proactive measures and sustainable practices.

    “In times like these, we are reminded that a tragedy in one part of our nation is a sorrow shared by all.

    “The preservation of life, whether threatened by natural calamities or human actions, is a responsibility we all share,” he said.

    He described Mokwa as a town of national significance, whose loss is felt far beyond Niger State.

    “Mokwa has always stood as a vital crossroads in Nigeria’s geography and commerce. This makes your pain a shared national burden,” Shettima said.

    He added that the whole country mourns with the people and stands with them in their period of pain.

    The Vice President emphasised that beyond emergency aid, the Tinubu Administration was committed to a sustainable rebuilding plan that not only addresses the current devastation of the town but seeks to mitigate future disasters.

    He assured that ecological and environmental challenges in Mokwa must be met with sustainable solutions, not reactive measures.

    Shettima also revealed that he had directed the Niger Delta Power Holding Company to facilitate the installation of transformers in Mokwa to ensure steady electricity supply.

    He hailed the state government and relevant agencies for their prompt response to the disaster.

    Shettima, thereafter, made a symbolic presentation of relief items to selected families and inspected the flood-affected areas in the town.

    Governor Mohammed Bago, who is away in Saudi Arabia on a holy pilgrimage, was represented by Deputy Governor Garba.

    Garba, who has been in charge since the floods ravaged the town, thanked the Federal Government for its continued support.

    “Within 24 hours, NEMA (National Emergency Management Agency) was on the ground to assess the damage and begin the process of intervention.

    “We are grateful for the prompt action,” he said.

    Garba urged the Federal Government to also repair other bridges in Mokwa and the rail lines connecting the North and South that were affected.

    The governor also appealed for the rehabilitation of the Jaba-Mokwa-Bida road to ease transportation challenges.

    Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Abubakar Gawu said the Vice President’s presence had boosted the people’s morale.

    “Your visit has strengthened us,” Gawu told Shettima.

    Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties and Head of the state’s Response Centre, Murtala Bagana, provided details of the flood’s impact.

    He said that among the 13,354 people affected, 186 were injured and 4,534  were displaced.

    Bagana added that 265 houses, two major roads and five bridges were damaged.

    The Etsu Nupe, who chairs the state council of traditional rulers, commended President Tinubu’s intervention. 

    He said: “There is an ongoing road project bypassing Mokwa town, but because of compensation, the work has stopped.

    ‘’We appeal to the Federal Government to fast-track the project as it is making life unbearable for the people.” 

    He also appealed for the completion of the Mokwa-Brini-Gwari Kaduna Road, Lambata-Bida Road, Bida-Patigi Road, and Agaie-Match Boro Road.

    He further called for the deployment of an expert team to address ecological issues in Mokwa.

    The Etsu Nupe expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved families and those whose properties were destroyed.

    Abubakar directed religious leaders, district and village heads in his domain, to pray to Almighty Allah to prevent the recurrence of such a tragedy.

    The Ndalile of Mokwa described the flood as a divine test.

    He expressed confidence that Mokwa would recover with continued support from the government at all levels.

  • Fed govt to help Mokwa rebuild after devastating floods – Shettima

    Fed govt to help Mokwa rebuild after devastating floods – Shettima

    …announces N2bn relief, 20 trucks of grains as Tinubu orders swift intervention

    The federal government has pledged full support to help the people of Mokwa rebuild their lives and communities after floods ravaged the area, leaving widespread destruction in their wake.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima made the assurance on Wednesday during a visit to the flood-hit town in Niger State, where he announced immediate relief measures and long-term rebuilding efforts.

    “We will rebuild. We will restore the vibrancy for which Mokwa is known. While this disaster is devastating, it will not define you”, the Vice President declared before a solemn gathering of local leaders and residents.

    According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima, who spoke on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said the Federal Government has set aside N2 billion in relief funds and dispatched 20 trucks of grains to support the affected population.

    The gesture is part of a broader commitment to ensure communities like Mokwa are not left to shoulder the burden of recovery alone.

    Arriving at the flood-stricken town shortly after noon, Shettima was received by Niger State Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Yahaya Abubakar, and senior state officials.

    Delivering President Tinubu’s message of condolence and solidarity, Senator Shettima said, “His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, sends his heartfelt condolences and stands in solidarity with you during this trying time. He has directed immediate action to assess the damage and provide the necessary support to aid your recovery.”

    The Vice President emphasized that beyond emergency aid, the Federal Government is committed to a sustainable rebuilding plan that not only addresses the current devastation but also seeks to mitigate future disasters.

    Read Also: Tinubu directs repair of collapsed Mokwa Bridge

    He noted that ecological and environmental challenges must be met with sustainable solutions, not reactive measures.

    “The greatest honour we can give to those we have lost in this regrettable tragedy is our commitment to a future where such disasters are reduced through proactive measures and sustainable practices,” he said.

    Mokwa, a critical transit and agricultural hub in central Nigeria, was described by the Vice President as a town of national significance, whose loss is felt far beyond Niger State.

    “Mokwa has always stood as a vital crossroads in Nigeria’s geography and commerce. This makes your pain a shared national burden,” Shettima said, adding that the entire country mourns with the people of Mokwa and stands with them as they rebuild.

    The visit was marked by emotional expressions of gratitude from community leaders and state officials.

    Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, representing Governor Umar Bago, praised the rapid federal response led by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

    “Within 24 hours, NEMA was on the ground to assess the damage and begin the process of intervention. We are grateful for the prompt action,” Garba said.

    Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman Gawu, said the Vice President’s presence had renewed the morale of the people, offering both reassurance and hope.

    “Your visit has strengthened us,” Gawu told Shettima.

    Murtala Bagana, Special Adviser to the Niger State Governor, described the disaster as a “national tragedy,” noting that its scale and impact warranted the kind of urgent federal response that was now unfolding.

    He also lauded President Tinubu’s leadership in mobilising aid without delay.

    Traditional rulers were also on hand to welcome the Vice President, with the Etsu Nupe, HRH Yahaya Abubakar, expressing deep appreciation to the President and the federal delegation for standing by the people of Mokwa in their hour of need.

    Also present were two cabinet members from Niger State: Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi.

    In addition to direct financial aid and food support, Vice President Shettima called for a united national response to climate and ecological crises, stressing that the flood disaster underscored the urgency of environmental resilience across the country.

    “In times like these, we are reminded that a tragedy in one part of our nation is a sorrow shared by all. The preservation of life, whether threatened by natural calamities or human actions, is a responsibility we all share”, he said.

  • Mokwa: NEMA warns of waterborne disease outbreak, shelter shortage

    Mokwa: NEMA warns of waterborne disease outbreak, shelter shortage

    The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has warned of likely outbreak of waterborne disease in Mokwa due to contamination of water sources.

    The agency also said there may be shelter and food shortages if the number of those currently displaced increases.

    As of Tuesday evening, the number of displaced is 1,590, affected persons is 3,108, 160 are dead, 84 missing, and 11 injured

    NEMA, on its official X handle @nemanigeria on Tuesday, posted efforts made and its challenges since the incident on 29th May.

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    On how it has responded, NEMA stated: “Mobile Intensive Care Ambulances, Rapid Intervention Vehicles, and medical extrication units have been deployed to support emergency health operations. Injured individuals were evacuated to health centres and hospitals for treatment.

    “Food supplies were mobilized within 24 hours and handed over to the NSEMA, Local Government Chairman, and Community head (Sarkin Hausawa Mokwa) for immediate distribution to the affected persons.

    “Mat/blanket, mattresses for women and children were deployed to provide emergency shelter at a school identified by the State Government. As of date, most displaced persons have moved into host communities to stay with friends and relatives.

    “NEMA provided hand-held water purifiers and also tablets to assist household purification of water”.

    On the gaps identified in its response, the Agency stated: “There is a heightened risk of disease outbreaks due to overcrowding and contaminated water sources. Timely medical attention is constrained, and additional health personnel and medical supplies are needed.

    “Pollution of potable water sources remains a major concern, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases. Hygiene materials may be insufficient if displacement persists, and more water treatment units are likely to be required.

    “Current shelter supplies may not be adequate if the number of displaced households increases”.

    On food security and nutrition, NEMA explained that while food items have been deployed, more will be required to cater for rising number of casualties.

  • Mokwa flood: Death toll rises to 153

    Mokwa flood: Death toll rises to 153

    …gridlock cleared on Bida-Mokwa road

    Two more bodies have been recovered beneath one of the bridges swept away by the devastating flood that hit Mokwa Local Government Area in Niger State, bringing the total death toll to 153.

    The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the update as of noon on Sunday.

    According to the agency’s spokesperson, Husseini Ibrahim, the latest victims were discovered late Saturday and buried on Sunday morning.

    “In Mokwa town alone, we have recorded 153 deaths, with 3,018 individuals affected, 503 households impacted, 11 people injured, and three bridges washed away,” Ibrahim said in a statement.

    He added that in Ndayako community, no lives were lost, but 98 people and 58 houses were affected, impacting 17 households. In Raba, no fatalities were reported, although five houses were damaged and one bridge was destroyed.

    Meanwhile, the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, urged residents to remain calm and support the government’s response efforts.

    He appealed to the public to avoid sensationalising the tragedy on social media and instead trust the government’s ongoing interventions for affected communities.

    “This unfortunate disaster has affected numerous homes and individuals, and the government remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting affected families and communities. The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), in collaboration with local authorities and volunteers, continues to work around the clock to provide relief to the affected people.

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    “While we share in the pain of every family that has been affected, we urge members of the public to remain calm and sensitive in their communications, particularly on social media and other platforms. This is a time of mourning and collective grief for us as a state as spreading unverified or sensational information only adds to the sorrow and confusion already being experienced.

    “The Government calls on all citizens to cooperate with relevant authorities and to trust in the ongoing response efforts. We also appeal to the conscience of all Nigerlites to prioritize unity, compassion, and factual reporting during this challenging time”, the statement read.

    Concerns about the gridlock on the Bida-Mokwa-Jebba road have been abated as the road has been cleared, enabling the trailers and tankers to pass through.

    A visit to Mokwa showed the road free and clear as trucks, trailers, and tankers could pass through, albeit slowly, as youths try to ensure that the process takes place without any of the vehicles getting struck.

    Residents confirmed that there had been gridlock for some days due to the flood, the influx of people and the washing of one of the bridges but the youths of the town took to filling the gap of the broken bridge with sand to ensure effective passage of the vehicles.

    “Yes, it is true. If you were here on Friday and yesterday afternoon, the hold-up was up to Bida. But the youths tried their best and ensured that the hold-up cleared. As you can see, the road is clear now”, Ndajiwo Aminu, a youth stated.

    One of the roadside sellers of charcoal, Mustapha Ndagi said that they did not know what was done but all they saw was that as of 6pm on Saturday, several of the tankers and trailers had moved and before Sunday morning, all the vehicles struck for about three days had cleared the road, “the hold up was up to the Emir Palace in Bida from Mokwa but as you can see, all the road have been cleared and it is free now. It is surprising that three days of gridlock have been cleared.”

  • Mokwa flood tragedy: Tinubu orders emergency response activation

    Mokwa flood tragedy: Tinubu orders emergency response activation

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate activation of the National Emergency Response Centre following the devastating floods in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, which have claimed over 100 lives and displaced numerous families.

    The directive was issued early Saturday after the President received distressing reports on the scale of the disaster. 

    According to local sources, at least 75 victims have been buried, while over 100 people remain unaccounted for amid ongoing search-and-rescue operations.

    In a statement on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, @officialABAT, President Tinubu expressed profound grief over the incident and promised a swift and compassionate federal response to support the affected communities.

    “Upon receiving initial reports, I immediately directed the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre. I have also been briefed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the scale of the disaster and the urgent humanitarian needs,” the President said.

    The President confirmed that relief materials and temporary shelter assistance are being deployed to the disaster zone without delay. 

    Federal agencies, including NEMA, have been mobilised in coordination with the Niger State Government to intensify rescue efforts and provide life-saving aid.

    “Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing, and all relevant federal agencies have been mobilised to support the state government’s efforts. We will ensure that no Nigerian affected by this disaster is left behind or unheard of”, Tinubu stated.

    He further directed security agencies to support the emergency response teams, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to ensuring that lives are saved and dignity restored in the wake of the disaster.

    “I assure all those impacted that your government stands with you. We will continue to coordinate with the Niger State Government to ensure a swift, coordinated, and compassionate response, one that prioritises lives, restores dignity and accelerates recovery,” the President assured.

    Offering his condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Niger State, Tinubu said the entire nation shares in their pain and pledged unwavering support to the victims.

    “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the good people of Niger State at this difficult time. In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity”, he said.

    The President called on all Nigerians to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts and prayers, noting that moments of national tragedy demand collective empathy and action.

    Authorities continue to assess the full extent of damage in Mokwa, with emergency personnel battling against time to rescue those still missing and prevent further loss of life. 

  • How deadly flood killed 111 at Mokwa

    How deadly flood killed 111 at Mokwa

    • Motorists stranded as bridge linking North, Southwest collapses

    Wednesday night’s rain in Mokwa, Niger State was not much different from others before it, except for its duration: about four hours.

    The residents, many of them farmers, were happy for the gift of nature.

    Their farms and crops would be better for it, they thought.

    And they wished the day to break soon for them to go and do some work on their farms.

    Anas Usman was one of them.

    But what hit them afterwards caught them completely unawares — water, water and more water.

    The rivers and other waterways came rushing into their houses, pulling down buildings and carrying away everything on their path.

    Seventeen members of Usman’s household were among those swept away by the floods.

    By yesterday, the death toll had reached 111, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

    “We were preparing to go to the farm in the morning when our house was suddenly submerged by floods. We did not know where the flood came from,” Usman told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

    “The flood submerged our house, causing the structure to collapse. We lost children, women and men, who are family members,” he said.

    Farmlands, roads and bridges were also washed away, the most important being the Mokwa Bridge linking the North and the Southwest.

    Thousands of motorists and passengers are already stranded at both ends of the bridge.

    Niger State Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba visited Mokwa yesterday for an on-the-spot assessment of  the situation.

    He also visited some of the victims.

    The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) commiserated with the victims and said it “stands in solidarity with the government and people of Niger State on the devastating flood.”

    Affected by the flooding areas were Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa in Mokwa town, Mokwa Local Government Area of the state.

    Deputy Governor Garba said his visit was at the instance of his principal, Governor Umaru Bago.

    He said that over 100 bodies had been recovered, adding that search and rescue operation was still ongoing.

    “I have been briefed by officials from NEMA and NSEMA, who have been on ground since the incident occurred for search and rescue operations.

    “I was told that over 100 people lost their lives and some are yet to be buried as search and rescue operations are still ongoing,” he said.

    Garba, while addressing the victims at the Internally Displaced Camp (IDPs), urged them to exercise patience as the state government was working out modalities to provide relief materials to those affected.

    He said that the state government had received relief materials from NEMA, which had been handed over to the council chairman for onward distribution to the victims.

    He assured the victims that he would communicate his findings to the governor to secure additional support for those affected.

    He, however, cautioned against building structures on waterways and emphasised the need for residents to respect natural water pathways to prevent future disasters.

    Read Also: Tinubu understands weight of office -Minister

    Also speaking, Mrs Zubaida Umar, Director-General of NEMA, said that officials of the agency were on ground coordinating ongoing search and rescue operation.

    Umar said that the agency provided food and non-food items, including rice, blankets, and mats which had been handed over to the state government through the deputy governor to support victims.

    She also said that NEMA was working with the Red Cross and Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) to support the affected community.

    Head of Operations, NEMA Niger state , Husseini Isah  said that over 5,000 people were displaced and properties worth millions of naira destroyed

    Mohammed Tanko, a civil servant, said  “we lost at least 15 from this house (pointing to the relics of the house he grew up in). The property (is) gone. We lost everything”.

    A  fisherman Danjuma Shaba  said: “I don’t have a house to sleep in. My house has already collapsed.”

    Motorists stranded aftermath of Mokwa bridge collapse

    Motorists are currently stranded as part of the bridge at Mokwa linking the North and Southwestern part of the country collapsed on account of the  flooding.

    One of the motorists, Awual Mohammed, told NAN that many motorists have been stranded since Thursday on both sides of the bridge, which made it impossible for motorists to continue with their journey.

    “If the bridge is not fixed immediately, it will disrupt trade activities between the North and Southwest regions,” he said.

    He called on the authorities to urgently repair the bridge and provide alternative solutions to mitigate the impact of future floods.

    Governors to work with ONSA, NEMA -AbdulRazaq

    The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) commiserated with the victims of the flooding.

    Chairman of the forum who is also the Kwara State Governor Abdulraman AbdulRazaq said that NGF “stands in solidarity with the government and people of Niger State on the devastating flood that has wreaked huge havoc in Mokwa town of the state.”

    Governor AbdulRazaq attributed the incident to  the stark realities of climate change and its adverse effects on human existence.

    In a statement he personally signed, the NGF chair said the forum was  ” shocked by the magnitude of the flooding, which has resulted in the loss of lives and properties in the community.

    “We sincerely commiserate with the affected families and express our support to the state government at this difficult time.

    “We also commend the interventions of the Niger State Government and its coordination with the emergency responders to support the victims of this disaster.

    “This flood again reminds us of the stark realities of climate change and the accompanying effects on how we live. We commit ourselves as leaders of our people to continue to work with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to not only help our people to cope with this global challenge, but to strengthen mitigative actions and relief institutions.

    “We pray God to console families who have lost loved ones and properties in the Mokwa incident, and we urge citizens to support government’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and to cooperate with agencies working to assist those in urgent need at this time.”

    The Nigerian Meteorological Agency had warned of possible flash floods in 15 of the  36 states, including Niger state, between Wednesday and Friday.

    More  than 1,200 people were killed and 1.2 million displaced in at least 31 out of Nigeria’s 36 states last year, making it one of the country’s worst floods in decades, according to the National Emergency Management Agency.

    Of note was the September 10 collapse of  the Alau Dam in Borno State.

    The collapsed dam left  Maiduguri and Jere local government areas flooded.

    According to the NEMA  over 70% of the residents in Maiduguri were displaced and at least 150 people died.