Devastating Floods in Mokwa, Niger State: Over 200 Dead, Thousands Displaced
On May 28, 2025, the town of Mokwa in Niger State, Nigeria, experienced catastrophic flooding due to torrential rains and the collapse of a nearby dam. The disaster has resulted in over 200 confirmed deaths, with more than 500 individuals still missing. Approximately 3,018 residents have been displaced, and 265 houses were completely destroyed.
📍 Impact on Mokwa
The flooding submerged vast areas of Mokwa, a key agricultural and trading hub in central Nigeria. Entire neighborhoods were inundated, with residents wading through waist-deep waters to salvage belongings and assist others. Critical infrastructure, including the Maokwa bridge and two major roads, collapsed, disrupting transportation and economic activities.
🏥 Casualties and Displacement
Deaths: Over 200 confirmed fatalities.
Missing Persons: More than 500 individuals unaccounted for.
Injuries: At least 121 people hospitalized.
Displacement: Approximately 3,018 residents displaced from their homes.
Property Damage: 265 houses destroyed; over 3,000 homes affected.
🌾 Agricultural and Economic Losses
The floods devastated over 10,000 hectares of paddy fields and croplands, affecting more than 5,000 dry-season farmers across Niger and Kwara States. The economic losses are estimated in the billions of naira, severely impacting regional food supply chains.
🆘 Emergency Response
President Bola Tinubu activated the National Emergency Response Centre, deploying federal agencies to provide relief materials and temporary shelters. Senator Sani Musa donated ₦50 million and several truckloads of food items to support displaced families.
⚠️ Climate Change and Infrastructure Challenges
Experts attribute the severity of the flooding to climate change-induced extreme weather patterns, including prolonged dry spells followed by intense rainfall. The collapse of a nearby dam exacerbated the situation, highlighting the urgent need for improved flood-control infrastructure.
📸 Visual Coverage
For a visual account of the flooding and its aftermath, you can watch the following news coverage:
