17 members of a single family were among those who died when severe flooding struck the Kpege area in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State. The incident occurred early Thursday morning following heavy rainfall on Wednesday night. As rescue efforts continue, the death toll has risen to at least 115.
One of the affected residents, Anas Usman, shared his heartbreaking experience, saying, “I lost 17 members of my household to the flood disaster that happened on Thursday morning after a heavy downpour on Wednesday night.
We were preparing to go to the farm in the morning when our house was suddenly submerged by the flood, we did not know where the flood came from. The flood submerged our house, causing the structure to collapse and we lost children, women and men who were our family members.”
Deputy Governor of Niger State, Yakubu Garba, visited the scene of the disaster to assess the damage. He confirmed that search and rescue operations were ongoing and that more bodies might still be recovered.
“I have been briefed by officials from NEMA and NSEMA, who have been on ground since the incident occurred for search and rescue operations. I was told that over 100 people lost their lives and some are yet to be buried as search and rescue operations are still ongoing,” he said.
Garba also visited the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp and assured the victims that the government was working on ways to support those affected. Relief items provided by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) have been handed over to local authorities for distribution.
Director-General of NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, noted that the agency had deployed personnel to manage rescue efforts and provide aid to victims. Supplies such as food, blankets, and mats were distributed.
“Based on an on-site assessment conducted Friday, 30th May 2025, by the NEMA team, no fewer than 115 bodies have so far been recovered as search and rescue operations continue. Injured persons evacuated to various health centres in Mokwa have been treated and discharged, while some received immediate first aid at the scene,” she said.
The worst-hit areas were Unguwan Hausawa and Tiffin Maza, both within Mokwa township.
Federal authorities have responded as well. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, issued a statement expressing sympathy for the victims and their families.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by this tragic event. President Bola Tinubu has been fully briefed on the situation and has directed all relevant emergency and security agencies to intensify ongoing search and rescue operations. The immediate priority of the Federal Government is to save lives and provide urgent relief to survivors,” he said.
Idris noted the collaborative efforts between NEMA, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the Niger State Government. He also commended rescue teams and volunteers for their bravery and urged residents to comply with safety measures.
