Cheap lives lost and thousands homeless due to devastating floods in a Nigerian town, now totals 151 fatalities
Heavy rainfall causing widespread flooding has left at least 151 people dead in the market town of Mokwa, Niger State, Nigeria, according to the local emergency services. The disaster displaced over 3,000 people, leaving at least 500 households across three communities in ruin.
Located on the Niger River, the town has been a recurring victim of seasonal flooding exacerbated by excessive rainfall and the effects of climate change. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has activated the national emergency response center to assist the state, with search-and-rescue operations ongoing and relief materials and temporary shelter being deployed.
The floods submerged parts of the town, including key trade centers, marking a significant loss for the community. Deadly floods in Nigeria have become an annual issue, with authorities scrambling to address the impacts of extreme weather and poor flood control infrastructure. Fears of disease outbreaks due to the situation have arisen, prompting health precautions.
As residents mourn their losses and the missing, numerous fatalities and the destruction of hundreds of homes continue to emerge. The trigger for the Mokwa disaster was heavy rainfall on May 28-29, 2025, which caused flash floods in the town and surrounding districts. Infrastructure was also severely damaged, with roads, bridges, and landmark trading centers sustaining significant damage. Rescue efforts have since shifted to recovery operations to address the immediate needs of those impacted and aid in the rebuilding process.
- The devastating floods in Mokwa, Niger State, Nigeria, have brought attention to both the climate crisis and general news, as the President has activated the national emergency response center and international aid organizations are called upon to help.
- Amidst the ongoing search-and-rescue operations and relief efforts, concerns about crime have arisen as looting and chaos have been reported in the displaced population, adding another layer to the already complex situation in Mokwa.
