In Nigeria’s north-central state of Niger, the death toll from catastrophic flooding in Mokwa has risen to at least 200, as confirmed by local officials. The flood, triggered by torrential rainfall on Thursday, affected the market town known for its agricultural trading activities, situated around 236 miles from Abuja. Rescue operations have ceased, as officials do not anticipate finding any more survivors, and efforts are underway to exhume bodies to prevent the spread of disease.
The Niger State emergency service reported that at least 11 individuals were injured, with over 3,000 people displaced. Approximately 500 households across three communities were impacted, with flooding rising rapidly in just five hours. Many residents found themselves waist-deep in water, attempting to salvage belongings and assist others, while infrastructure suffered significantly, with roads washed away and bridges collapsing.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences and directed the activation of an emergency response to aid victims and expedite recovery efforts. Flooding is a recurring issue during Nigeria’s wet season, particularly affecting northern areas that have been facing prolonged dry spells exacerbated by climate change. Although severe floods are not unprecedented, community leaders like Aliki Musa noted that the villagers are unaccustomed to such extreme events. Jibril Muregi, chairman of Mokwa’s local government, emphasized the urgency for flood-control infrastructure, citing that much-needed construction has long been delayed. This recent disaster underscores the growing vulnerability of communities to climate-related events in Nigeria.
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