More than 150 people have died in the deadly floods that swept through Niger State last Friday. The flood destroyed homes, farms, and businesses across several local government areas, leaving thousands stranded.
Heavy rainfall caused rivers to overflow. The water washed away bridges, roads, and entire communities. Rescue workers and volunteers have been working round the clock, trying to reach affected villages.
Jolibalive News reported that many families are still searching for missing relatives. Dozens of bodies have been recovered from collapsed buildings and submerged farmlands.
Entire Villages Submerged as Survivors Struggle for Shelter
The worst-hit areas include Mokwa, Lavun, and Wushishi. Entire villages in these places are now under water. Some survivors said they climbed trees and rooftops to escape the rising flood.
“We lost everything,” said a farmer in Wushishi. “My children and I watched our house collapse.”
Temporary shelters have been set up in public schools and community halls. However, food, clean water, and medicine remain in short supply.
Niger State officials said they have activated emergency response teams. President Bola Tinubu ordered the Nigerian Emergency Management Agency to deploy federal power to assist, but the damage is massive. Health experts fear the spread of waterborne diseases if urgent aid does not arrive soon.
Many of the affected residents say they were not warned early enough. They are calling for better weather alerts and flood control systems.
U.S. Government Offers Condolences and Support
In a message of sympathy, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria expressed sadness over the loss of lives. The embassy’s statement reads:
“The U.S. Mission is deeply saddened by the news of last Friday’s devastating floods that have impacted Niger State. During this time of immense loss and hardship, our hearts are with all those who are grieving the loss of loved ones, displaced by loss of homes and livelihoods, or struggling to find shelter. We are holding in our thoughts you and the federal and state emergency workers who are working to provide relief and alleviate the effects of this disaster.”
This message follows growing calls for international assistance. Relief agencies are already appealing for food items, mattresses, clean water, and mosquito nets.
Experts link the flooding to poor drainage, illegal building on waterways, and changes in weather patterns. Niger State has faced repeated floods in recent years, but this one is said to be the worst in over a decade.
Government Calls for Support and Urgent Solutions
The Niger State government is asking for support from the federal government, foreign donors, and humanitarian groups. They say rebuilding will take months.
Many displaced families say they have nowhere to return. They are asking for relocation and long-term help.
Local leaders are urging the government to build dams and dredge rivers to reduce future flooding. Residents want a full review of land and environmental policies.
Schools remain closed in some of the affected areas, and farmers say they have lost crops worth millions of ₦aira.
The flood disaster has once again raised questions about climate change, infrastructure planning, and emergency preparedness in Nigeria.
Rate, Like 👍, Comment, share this article and Follow us on our social media handles.
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
