Mokwa, Niger State, Nigeria — In the early hours of May 30, 2025, the town of Mokwa in Niger State faced a catastrophic flood following intense predawn rainfall. The deluge resulted in the deaths of at least 111 residents, with officials warning that the toll may rise as rescue operations continue.
Mokwa, a vital agricultural hub connecting northern farmers with southern markets, was overwhelmed as floodwaters submerged homes, markets, and infrastructure. Eyewitnesses described scenes of devastation, with entire neighborhoods underwater and residents wading through waist-deep currents to salvage belongings and assist neighbors.
The flooding was exacerbated by the collapse of a nearby dam, intensifying the volume and speed of the water. Emergency services report that more than 3,000 homes have been destroyed, leaving thousands homeless.
Local authorities, including Mokwa’s Local Government Chairman Jibril Muregi, have emphasized the urgent need for improved flood-control infrastructure to prevent future tragedies.
This disaster underscores the increasing vulnerability of Nigerian communities to climate-induced events, highlighting the pressing need for comprehensive disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure development.
As rescue efforts continue, the nation mourns the lives lost and grapples with the extensive damage inflicted upon Mokwa.
