The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) has confirmed that 207 people have died due to the devastating flood that struck two communities in Mokwa Local Government Area. The flood, triggered by torrential rains and worsened by a dam collapse, also left over 500 persons injured, with the number of missing persons still unknown.
NSEMA Director General Abdullahi Baba Arah disclosed these figures during a press briefing in Minna, noting that victims whose homes were destroyed have been given ₦500,000 each to secure new accommodations. Additional relief materials, including foodstuffs, have also been distributed to alleviate the suffering of displaced residents.
The flood, described as one of the worst in the state’s history, submerged entire communities, destroyed over 265 houses, and washed away critical infrastructure including three bridges and two roads, severely disrupting transportation and economic activities. Approximately 3,000 people were displaced, and vast farmlands were destroyed, threatening food security in the region.
In response, NSEMA has launched its annual flood sensitization and early warning campaigns across the state’s eight emirate councils, urging residents living near waterways to relocate to safer areas. The agency also continues to support victims of other disasters, including recent fire outbreaks and explosions in the state.
Director General Arah expressed gratitude to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, traditional institutions, community leaders, volunteers, and humanitarian partners for their support in disaster response efforts. NSEMA reaffirmed its commitment to swift and effective disaster management and risk reduction to protect vulnerable communities.
The tragic flood in Mokwa underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure, climate resilience, and proactive disaster preparedness in Niger State and across Nigeria.
