By Fatima Saka
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed the recovery of no fewer than 100 bodies following the catastrophic flood that swept through the Kpege area of Mokwa, Niger State, in the early hours of Thursday.
Speaking on Friday during an on-site assessment, the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, said that search and rescue operations were ongoing, with technical personnel and critical equipment deployed to aid the effort. The disaster, which has claimed multiple lives, displaced hundreds, and destroyed homes and livelihoods, triggered an urgent response from the agency.
“Our hearts go out to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. NEMA remains committed to supporting the affected communities and ensuring swift rescue and relief,” Umar stated.
NEMA activated its Minna Operations Office and reinforced the team with personnel and resources from Abuja, including Mobile Intensive Care Ambulances, Rapid Intervention Vehicles, Mobile Water Treatment units, and extrication equipment.
The worst-hit areas have been identified as Unguwan Hausawa and Tiffin Maza neighborhoods in Mokwa township. While many injured individuals have already received medical attention and been discharged, emergency medical support is still available at various health centres.
The operation has seen collaboration between NEMA, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the Nigerian Red Cross, local volunteers, and divers. Security agencies, including the Police, Civil Defence, and Military Disaster Response Units from the nearby Kainji military base, are also assisting with crowd control and safeguarding operations.
Emergency relief materials — including food items, household utensils, and tents — have been delivered to support displaced families. A mobile water purification system is providing safe drinking water in affected communities.
The list of relief items was formally handed over to the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu Garba, who praised NEMA for its rapid and coordinated response and lauded the Director General for her personal visit.
Deadly Flood Ravages Mokwa’s Kpege Neighborhood: NEMA Launches Full-Scale Rescue Operation
“This is a tragic moment for our state, but we are grateful for NEMA’s presence and leadership during this crisis,” Garba said.
The public is advised to remain alert to possible secondary hazards and report emergencies promptly. NEMA has assured that a comprehensive post-disaster assessment will guide future recovery and reconstruction efforts in Mokwa and surrounding areas.
