NEMA Acts After Deadly Floods in Mokwa, Niger State
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has dispatched officials to 15 high-risk Nigerian states to educate residents about impending floods and encourage relocation from flood-prone areas. This urgent action follows the tragic flood in Mokwa, Niger State, where over 200 people lost their lives, and hundreds remain missing.
Tragic Flooding in Mokwa: A Wake-Up Call
On 23rd May 2025, Mokwa, a key commercial town in Niger State, was devastated by severe flooding. Many victims had constructed homes in vulnerable gully areas, making them susceptible to floodwaters. Despite official warnings, residents were caught off guard by the scale of the disaster.
The Impact on Communities
This incident marks the sixth flood in Niger State this year alone. Earlier in April, dam water released due to heavy rains destroyed more than 5,000 farms across 30 communities, severely impacting local livelihoods.
Understanding Nigeria’s Flood Risks During Rainy Season
Nigeria’s rainy season spans from April to October, increasing the risk of floods nationwide. Niger State, Nigeria’s largest by landmass, hosts three major dams that supply a significant portion of the country’s electricity. These dams are critical but were not responsible for the recent flooding, officials clarify.
NEMA and Ministry of Water Resources Provide Clarifications
NEMA’s Manzo Ezekiel explained the unprecedented severity of the Mokwa flood, stating:
“Although Mokwa was identified as a flood-risk area, the magnitude at which it occurred was unprecedented. Many houses were built directly in large gullies, increasing vulnerability.”
Similarly, the Minister of Water Resources, Joseph Utsev, ruled out the dams as the flood cause. Instead, he attributed the disaster to heavy rainfall intensified by climate change, combined with illegal constructions blocking natural waterways.
“The flood in Mokwa town was primarily caused by heavy rainfall due to extreme weather conditions occasioned by climate change. Additionally, unregulated buildings blocked an ephemeral tributary of River Dingi,” Utsev said.
Rising Death Toll and Emergency Response Efforts
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency has confirmed that the death toll has risen to 160, including two children found buried under tree debris.
NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar quickly visited the flood site within 24 hours of the disaster. The agency has mobilized advocacy teams to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), delivering first aid training and evacuation guidance to vulnerable communities.
Nationwide Flood Risk: 2025 Annual Flood Outlook
According to the 2025 Annual Flood Outlook, 1,249 communities across 176 Local Government Areas in 33 states and the FCT are classified as high flood risk zones. These states include Abia, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Benue, Delta, FCT, Kogi, Lagos, Niger, Rivers, and 21 others.
What You Need to Know: Stay Alert and Prepared
NEMA emphasizes that all communities nationwide must remain vigilant and take proactive steps to minimize flood damage.
Manzo Ezekiel warns:
“Every community needs to be on alert and take the necessary steps to forestall flooding in its area.”
