President Bola Tinubu has directed the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre as the death toll in the Niger State flooding rose to at least 150 over the weekend.
The spokesperson for the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr Ibrahim Husseini, disclosed that the sharp increase from the previous death toll of 115 came as bodies were recovered nearly 10 kilometres (6 miles) away from the town of Mokwa, the epicentre of the floods on Saturday.
A total of 3,000 persons have also been displaced, levelling more than 250 homes and washing away two bridges.
“Some bodies were recovered from the debris of collapsed homes,” Mr Husseini said, adding that his teams would need excavators to retrieve corpses.
He said many were still missing, citing a family of 12 where only four members had been accounted for as of Friday.
President Tinubu commiserated with the families and promised that efforts to support the Niger State government was in place.
“I have received with deep concern the distressing reports of severe flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, which has resulted in the tragic loss of lives and the displacement of families.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the good people of Niger State at this difficult time. Upon receiving initial reports, I immediately directed the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre.
“I have also been briefed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the scale of the disaster and the urgent humanitarian needs. Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing, and all relevant federal agencies have been mobilised to support the state government’s efforts.
“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,” he said.
“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 prioritises lives, restores dignity and accelerates recovery.
“I call on all Nigerians to keep our fellow citizens in Mokwa in our thoughts and prayers. In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity.
“I have also directed our security agencies to assist in the emergency efforts while NEMA and the National Emergency Response Centre have been tasked with coordination and providing updates as necessary,” President Tinubu added.