President Bola Tinubu has ordered the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre in Niger State following devastating flash floods in the central-western region, which have claimed at least 115 lives.
In a statement issued overnight, the President said his directive followed a briefing from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), which emphasized the urgent need to expand humanitarian assistance for those affected.
According to a spokesperson for NEMA, torrential rains that began late Wednesday and continued into Thursday led to the deaths of at least 115 people. The death toll is feared to rise as rescue efforts continue.
The heavy rains caused significant destruction, washing away and submerging dozens of homes in Mokwa, a town situated near the Niger River. NEMA reported that buildings were demolished and bodies swept into the river, further complicating recovery efforts.
“This tragic incident serves as a timely reminder of the dangers of constructing buildings along waterways and the crucial need to keep drainage channels and river paths unobstructed,” the agency stated.
Reacting to the disaster, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and displacement of families. “I have received with deep concern the distressing reports of severe flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State,” he said. “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the good people of Niger State at this difficult time.”
The President confirmed he had promptly ordered the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre upon learning of the disaster and had been briefed by NEMA on the extent of the flooding and the immediate humanitarian requirements.
He assured that all necessary federal resources, including search-and-rescue teams and relief supplies, were being rapidly mobilized to support ongoing efforts by the state government. “Relief materials and temporary shelter assistance are being deployed without delay. We will ensure that no Nigerian affected by this disaster is left behind or unheard of,” Tinubu pledged.
He also emphasized that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring that every affected individual receives the necessary support. Residents of Mokwa, devastated by the destruction of their homes, lamented, “We don’t have anywhere again to go to.”
Tinubu reaffirmed the government’s solidarity with the victims and promised a response that prioritizes human life and accelerates recovery. “I assure all those impacted that your government stands with you. We will continue to coordinate with the Niger State Government to ensure a swift, coordinated, and compassionate response—one that restores dignity and accelerates recovery,” he stated.
The President called on Nigerians to remember the people of Mokwa in their thoughts and prayers. “In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity.”
He added that security agencies have also been instructed to assist in the emergency response efforts, while NEMA and the National Emergency Response Centre will oversee coordination and provide regular updates.
