The Federal Government has issued a stern warning about the looming threat of large-scale flooding expected to impact 30 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), urging urgent action to prevent a repeat of the deadly Mokwa disaster in Niger State, which claimed over 200 lives last week.
During a press briefing held on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Utsev, cautioned that the upcoming rainy season could trigger devastating floods, especially in vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
The tragedy in Mokwa, which unfolded on Thursday of the previous week, not only resulted in massive loss of life but also displaced thousands of residents. Over 500 individuals are still unaccounted for, while dozens of homes and properties were swept away by raging floodwaters.
States on High Alert for Flooding
Minister Utsev listed the states identified as high-risk flood zones, based on early warnings from hydrological assessments. The states include:
Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Mokwa Disaster Not Caused by Dam Releases
In response to speculation, Utsev clarified that the recent flood disaster in Mokwa was not caused by the release of water from either the Kainji or Jebba dams, both of which are fully operational and structurally sound.
“The flood in Mokwa was not due to dam releases,” the minister emphasized.
“It was the result of extreme and concentrated rainfall, likely intensified by climate change, which overwhelmed the local drainage systems and river channels.”
Neglect of Warnings and Poor Urban Planning Worsened Casualties
Utsev expressed regret that many residents and local authorities ignored earlier flood warnings, which could have helped mitigate the scale of the tragedy. He blamed poor drainage infrastructure, indiscriminate construction, and blocked water channels for worsening the disaster’s impact.
He particularly cited the unregulated development around an ephemeral stream linked to River Dingi, a seasonal tributary of the River Niger. This stream, which usually remains dry for most of the year, turned into a raging torrent during the recent rains.
“The blockage of natural water paths by buildings and the absence of drainage alternatives intensified the flooding,” he explained.
Commendation for Emergency Responders and Local Authorities
The minister extended condolences to the victims and commended the swift response by the Niger State Government, local officials, and emergency services who mobilized rescue and relief efforts despite challenging conditions.
“We stand in solidarity with the people and government of Niger State, particularly the families affected in Mokwa,” Utsev stated.
Earlier Flood Outlook Identified Mokwa as High Risk
The minister also reminded the public that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), under the supervision of his ministry, had earlier flagged 19 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Niger State, including Mokwa, as high-risk flood zones in its 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) released on April 10.
Call to Action for States and Communities
Utsev called on state governments, local authorities, and citizens residing in identified high-risk areas to take immediate precautionary measures. He urged communities to clear drainage channels, relocate from flood plains, and comply with early warning advisories to reduce loss of life and property.
“We appeal to everyone to take the flood warnings seriously and act swiftly to safeguard lives and livelihoods,” he said.
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