In a swift and compassionate response to one of the most devastating natural disasters to hit Niger State in recent times, President Bola Tinubu has mandated the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant agencies to expedite rescue and relief operations for victims of the catastrophic floods that have ravaged Mokwa and surrounding areas. The floods, which struck with unrelenting force following torrential rains from Wednesday night to Thursday, have left a trail of destruction, claiming at least 115 lives and displacing over 3,000 families. The disaster has submerged homes, decimated critical infrastructure, and even swept bodies into the Niger River, creating a grim challenge for rescue teams and local authorities.
The scale of the tragedy has prompted President Tinubu to express profound concern for the affected communities, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated action to alleviate the suffering of thousands. In a statement released by the Presidency, Tinubu activated the National Emergency Response Centre to spearhead a multi-agency effort aimed at saving lives, providing immediate relief, and restoring hope to the people of Niger State. The directive underscores the administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations in times of crisis, with the President calling for national solidarity to aid those impacted by the floods.
A Devastating Deluge
The floods in Mokwa, one of the worst in the region’s history, were triggered by relentless rainfall that overwhelmed local drainage systems and caused rivers to burst their banks. Entire neighborhoods were submerged, with homes reduced to rubble and farmlands washed away, threatening food security in an area already grappling with economic challenges. The human toll is staggering: at least 115 fatalities have been confirmed, with fears that the number could rise as rescue operations continue. Tragically, many bodies have been swept into the Niger River, complicating efforts to provide closure to grieving families.
Over 3,000 families have been displaced, forced to seek refuge in makeshift shelters, schools, and community centers. Personal belongings, livestock, and livelihoods have been lost, leaving survivors in desperate need of food, clean water, medical supplies, and temporary housing. Infrastructure damage is extensive, with roads, bridges, and power lines destroyed, further isolating affected communities and hindering access for emergency responders.
A Robust Response
President Tinubu’s directive has mobilized a comprehensive response involving NEMA, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Niger State Government, and local volunteers. NEMA has deployed teams to the hardest-hit areas, equipped with boats, helicopters, and heavy machinery to navigate the floodwaters and reach stranded residents. The agency is working around the clock to evacuate people from danger zones, provide medical care to the injured, and distribute essential supplies, including food, blankets, mosquito nets, and hygiene kits.
The Nigerian Armed Forces have been instrumental in the rescue efforts, leveraging their expertise in disaster response to airlift survivors and deliver aid to remote areas. Military personnel are also assisting in the grim task of recovering bodies from the Niger River, a process that has been described as both emotionally and logistically challenging. Meanwhile, the Niger State Government has set up emergency relief camps and is coordinating with federal agencies to ensure that aid reaches those in need promptly.
Local volunteers have emerged as unsung heroes in this crisis, braving dangerous conditions to assist their neighbors and provide critical support to overwhelmed emergency teams. Community leaders have also played a vital role, helping to identify the most vulnerable households and ensuring that aid distribution is equitable.
Presidential Call for Cooperation
In his statement, President Tinubu urged residents of Mokwa and surrounding areas to cooperate fully with emergency officials and adhere to evacuation directives. “The safety of our people is paramount,” he said. “I call on all citizens in the affected areas to work closely with authorities to ensure that rescue and relief efforts are successful. Together, we will overcome this tragedy and rebuild stronger.”
The President also extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, assuring them of the government’s unwavering support. He emphasized that the federal government would work tirelessly to provide not only immediate relief but also long-term solutions to prevent future disasters of this magnitude. Plans are already underway to assess the structural vulnerabilities that exacerbated the flooding, including poor drainage systems and unregulated construction in flood-prone areas.
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