June 03, (THEWILL) – The Federal Government has dismissed reports linking the deadly flood that struck Mokwa in Niger State on May 29, 2025, to the release of water from the Kainji and Jebba dams.
THEWILL reports that the devastating flood has claimed over 100 lives and displaced several families.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, clarified that the flood was caused by intense rainfall driven by extreme weather conditions associated with climate change, which overwhelmed Mokwa’s drainage system.
“The flood was primarily due to heavy rainfall, not the release of water from the dams,” the minister stated. “
He added, “Blocked tributaries, particularly a seasonal offshoot of River Dingi, further worsened the situation due to unregulated construction activities.”
Utsev commended the swift response of the Niger State Government and local emergency teams, while assuring that the Federal Government would continue to support affected communities.
He recalled that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had issued an early warning on April 10, highlighting the risk of flooding in Mokwa and 18 other local government areas in its 2025 Annual Flood Outlook.
The forecast identified 1,249 communities in 176 LGAs across 33 states and the FCT as high flood-risk zones, while 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs were listed as facing moderate risk.
States flagged included Niger, Lagos, Kogi, Bayelsa, Jigawa, Benue, Kebbi, and Rivers.
Ustev noted, “The AFO doesn’t just identify high-risk areas; it also provides actionable recommendations for adaptation and mitigation.
“We urge all stakeholders to utilize the NIHSA flood forecast dashboard for proactive planning.”
Describing the Mokwa disaster as “a stark reminder” of the escalating impact of climate change, the minister reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to building resilient and sustainable water systems.
He added that technical teams from NIHSA, the Upper Niger River Basin Development Authority, and the National Water Resources Institute are currently in Mokwa and are expected to submit a comprehensive report soon.
The ministry extended its condolences to the people and government of Niger State and called for urgent, nationwide cooperation to prevent similar tragedies.
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