NEMA Releases Grim Flood Data: 165 Dead, Over 119,000 Affected
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has released updated data on the devastating flooding crisis in Nigeria, confirming a severe humanitarian situation. According to the agency's 2025 flood dashboard, 165 people have died and 82 are missing. The floods have affected a total of 119,791 individuals across 19 states. The data also reveals that 43,936 people have been displaced, and thousands of homes and farmlands have been destroyed.
The ongoing rainy season has triggered widespread flash floods, a crisis exacerbated by poor infrastructure, including inadequate drainage systems. In several instances, the collapse of dams and embankments has contributed to the disaster's scale.
Key Affected States and NEMA's Response
While the flooding has impacted 19 states, some have been hit particularly hard, with significant casualties and displacement:
Niger State: The town of Mokwa was a major center of the crisis, with early reports indicating hundreds of deaths and missing persons from a single incident in late May. NEMA, in collaboration with international partners like the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Nigerian Red Cross Society, has been heavily involved in search and rescue operations. The flooding in this area has destroyed homes, farmlands, and critical infrastructure.
Adamawa State: Recent flash floods in Adamawa, specifically in the capital city of Yola, have also led to significant casualties and displacement. According to NEMA reports, five people have died and dozens have been injured. The state government has set up camps to assist the displaced, and NEMA has been on the ground, distributing relief materials.
NEMA's Efforts and Remaining Challenges
NEMA's multi-faceted response to the crisis includes:
Early Warnings: In partnership with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Service Agency (NIHSA), NEMA has been issuing early warnings and national preparedness campaigns to inform at-risk communities.
Relief Operations: The agency has been conducting search and rescue missions and providing essential relief materials, such as food, shelter, and medical supplies, to displaced persons.
Inter-agency Coordination: NEMA is collaborating with state governments and international humanitarian organizations to ensure a coordinated response. The National Economic Council recently approved fresh funding for NEMA to bolster flood mitigation efforts.
Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain, including weak drainage infrastructure, logistical hurdles, and the need for more efficient data collection from state-level agencies. The humanitarian situation continues to be critical, with an urgent need for emergency shelter, clean water, and sanitation for the affected population.
I'm Aisha shehu
Talksocialtalka News
