The devastating flood that swept through Mokwa in Niger State has claimed 151 lives, with many still unaccounted for. The disaster, which has also displaced hundreds, continues to send shockwaves across the country.
Deputy Governor of Niger State, Yakubu Garba, confirmed the figures during a condolence visit by a Federal Government delegation led by the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris. Also present was the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda.
The Deputy Governor revealed that 503 households and 265 homes were affected, in addition to the destruction of two major roads and three bridges. He lamented the condition of the temporary camps housing displaced residents, describing them as inadequate and unfit for habitation.
In a proactive move, the state government has ordered residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately to prevent further casualties as the rainy season intensifies. Investigations are also underway to determine the root cause of the flooding, with a view to preventing future occurrences.
Speaking to newsmen, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda described the incident as a major tragedy and a stark reminder of the realities of climate change.
“We are now living with the effects of climate change, which makes it harder to predict natural disasters. That’s why we’re experiencing such tragedies,” he said. “While floods are natural occurrences, human actions also play a critical role in mitigating their impact.”
He emphasized that the Federal Government, in collaboration with state authorities, is working to reduce the risk of future disasters. He disclosed that a bid for the construction of stormwater drainage systems in Mokwa and Mashegu had already been opened in April 2025. Contractors are expected to be mobilized to the sites within the next few weeks.
The minister also urged residents to relocate from riverbanks and flood-prone areas to safer grounds, noting that early action is key to saving lives.
“This tragedy has repeated itself too often. It’s still early in the rainy season, and we must act quickly to prevent more devastation,” he warned.
Meanwhile, local divers continue to search for missing persons. Several bodies have been recovered in Mokwa town and nearby Rabba community. Mass burials have been conducted for unidentified victims, while those identified by relatives have been handed over for private burials.
