By Abdullahi Lukman
At least 110 people have lost their lives in devastating floods that struck central Nigeria following hours of intense rainfall, officials confirmed on Thursday.
The tragedy unfolded in the town of Mokwa, located in Niger State, where torrential rains caused widespread destruction.
According to Abullahi Baba-Arah, head of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), surging floodwaters overwhelmed the area, submerging and sweeping away over 50 residential houses—many with occupants still inside.
“This is one of the worst disasters we have witnessed in recent years,” Baba-Arah said.
“The rain lasted for several hours, and the resulting floodwaters destroyed entire neighborhoods, leaving behind a trail of death and displacement.”
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In response, the Nigerian government expressed its “profound sorrow” over the loss of lives and widespread devastation.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced that security forces and emergency responders have been deployed to support rescue efforts and provide relief to affected communities.
“Our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” Idris said. “President Bola Tinubu has directed all relevant agencies to coordinate efforts to save lives and prevent further tragedy.”
As search and rescue operations continue, officials fear the death toll could rise.
Hundreds have been displaced, and the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
The disaster highlights growing concerns over climate vulnerability in Nigeria, where inadequate infrastructure and emergency preparedness leave many communities exposed to extreme weather events.
