The United Arab Emirates has joined the international community in mourning the victims of the catastrophic floods that hit Mokwa in Nigeria’s Niger State, where torrential rains left widespread destruction and over 150 dead.
In a statement, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its “sincere condolences and sympathy” to the Nigerian people, expressing solidarity with the families affected by the disaster and extending support to the government of Nigeria.
The devastating floods, which struck late Wednesday into Thursday, flattened more than 250 structures and washed away two major bridges, leaving the town reeling. Authorities say more than 3,000 residents have been displaced.
Emergency crews and Red Cross search teams have been scouring the area, including zones nearly 10 kilometers from the town center, in hopes of recovering more victims. “We’re now moving toward Jebba on the far side of the river,” said Gideon Adamu, head of the Red Cross in Niger State, as efforts continue along the waterlogged banks of the Niger River.
Ibrahim Audu Husseini, spokesperson for the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, confirmed the grim toll and warned that more bodies could still surface downstream due to the river’s powerful current.
The flood is one of the deadliest weather events to strike the region this year, underscoring the growing vulnerability of communities in the face of extreme climate conditions.