The Federal Government has dismissed claims that the recent devastating flood in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State was caused by the failure of the Jebba Dam. Instead, authorities have attributed the disaster to climate change and inadequate drainage systems in the area.
The Minister of Water Resources, in a statement released on June 3, 2025, clarified that the dam’s structure remains intact and is operating within safe parameters.
The minister explained that the flood resulted from unusually heavy and prolonged rainfall in the region, which overwhelmed the existing drainage infrastructure, leading to widespread flooding.
Officials emphasised that climate change has intensified weather patterns across Nigeria, causing erratic and heavy downpours that local drainage systems are not designed to handle.
This situation has made some communities, including Mokwa, vulnerable to floods during the rainy season.
The government acknowledged the damage caused by the flooding, including the destruction of homes, farmlands, and infrastructure, as well as the displacement of residents.
However, they urged the public and media to avoid spreading misinformation about the dam’s integrity, which could cause unnecessary panic.
Efforts are underway to improve drainage facilities and implement flood control measures to mitigate the impact of future heavy rains.
The Ministry of Water Resources is collaborating with other agencies to assess vulnerable areas and enhance early warning systems for flood-prone communities.
Residents affected by the flood have been urged to cooperate with government relief efforts and follow safety advisories. The government has promised to provide support for the recovery and rehabilitation of the Mokwa community and its environs while continuing to address the underlying environmental challenges contributing to such disasters.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
