Devastating floods have struck Mokwa town and its surrounding communities in Niger State, resulting in a significant humanitarian crisis. The deluge, triggered by intense rainfall and rising water levels from nearby rivers, has caused widespread destruction, claiming numerous lives and displacing thousands of residents.

The scale of the disaster is immense, with official reports confirming the loss of at least 151 lives. In addition, 11 individuals have sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment. The floods have displaced over 3,018 people, affected more than 503 households, and damaged or destroyed 264 houses across three communities within Mokwa. Critical infrastructure, including township roads and three major bridges in Mokwa and Raba, has also been washed away, severely hampering access and mobility in the affected areas.

President Bola Tinubu expressed profound concern and grief over the catastrophe, extending heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families. He swiftly ordered the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre and the immediate deployment of federal emergency resources. Upon receiving briefings from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the crisis's scale, President Tinubu instructed all relevant federal agencies to fully mobilize and assist the Niger State Government in its ongoing response efforts. He vowed that no Nigerian caught in the tragedy would be "left behind or unheard of," emphasizing a compassionate, people-first approach.

In a further demonstration of federal support, President Tinubu dispatched a high-level delegation to Niger State to commiserate with the government and people. The delegation included the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda. They were received by Yakubu Garba, the Deputy Governor of Niger State, to whom they delivered the President’s message of solidarity and commitment.

During the visit, Minister Mohammed Idris conveyed President Tinubu's deep sorrow over the incident and reiterated the federal government's commitment to providing all necessary support. He confirmed that NEMA had already conducted a comprehensive assessment and mobilized resources for immediate relief, including the respectful recovery of deceased victims and care for the injured. Idris highlighted the President's concern over the recurring nature of such disasters in Niger State and the administration's dedication to developing long-term mitigation strategies. Furthermore, President Tinubu has directed the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to collaborate with state governments to intensify public sensitization in flood-prone areas, urging residents to heed early warnings and take preventive measures.

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, elaborated on the federal government's plans for sustained assistance. He announced that the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons has been instructed to take over from NEMA to provide continued care and long-term support for those displaced by the devastating floods, ensuring their welfare beyond the immediate emergency phase.

Niger State's Deputy Governor, Yakubu Garba, expressed profound gratitude to the federal government and President Tinubu for the prompt and compassionate intervention. He described the people of Niger State as devastated by the scale of destruction, reconfirming the distressing figures of 151 fatalities and over 3,000 displaced individuals. The state government has initiated its own relief efforts, including the distribution of 6,000 bags of rice to victims. However, Garba also appealed for further federal assistance, particularly in providing adequate and conducive temporary shelters for the displaced populations.

The floods in Mokwa are attributed to a combination of intense rainfall and overflowing nearby rivers. This disaster underscores the growing environmental risks faced by the region, exacerbated by factors such as climate change and inadequate drainage infrastructure. The recurring nature of flooding in Niger State has led to calls from local communities for improved flood management systems and comprehensive long-term climate adaptation strategies to protect vulnerable populations.

President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to disaster preparedness and resilience, assuring that search-and-rescue operations are ongoing and that relief materials are being dispatched without delay. Security agencies have also been deployed to assist in emergency efforts and ensure safety. The President emphasized the importance of national unity in facing such adversities, stating, "In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity." He called on Nigerians to keep the victims in their thoughts and prayers, highlighting that the federal government will continue to coordinate closely with the Niger State Government for a swift and effective response.

Relief efforts are continuing as officials work to stabilize the situation and reach isolated communities. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and the region remains vulnerable as the rainy season progresses. Further updates on the response and recovery operations are expected from NEMA and the National Emergency Response Centre in the coming days.