Why Mokwa’s Flood Is a Crucial Climate Warning We Must Address Now – Insights from Platform Times

On May 28, 2025, Mokwa, a small town in Niger State, faced a devastating flood that changed lives forever. Over 230 people lost their lives, and hundreds more went missing. Thousands of families were displaced, while farmland—the heart of the community—was left in ruins. This flooding marked the worst disaster Mokwa has seen in 60 years, highlighting years of neglect towards our environment and infrastructure.

Climate change is now a harsh reality, not a distant concern. The events in Mokwa serve as a wake-up call. Erratic weather patterns, including intense rainfall, have become the norm. These changes reflect a warming planet, and Nigeria is feeling the impact. Our rivers overflow, and we watch as towns face dangers from unpredictable weather.

Hindsight reveals that the tragedy could have been lessened. Experts had warned of potential flooding in the region, but those warnings were unheard. A dam, outdated and poorly maintained, collapsed after relentless rain, unleashing a torrent that engulfed homes and neighborhoods.

The collapse wasn’t just unexpected; it pointed to a deeper issue. The dam was designed for past conditions, not the severe weather we face today. This oversight turned a regular storm into a catastrophe. The hardest hit are always the most vulnerable: the poor and the rural. In hours, more than 10,000 hectares of farmland were destroyed, livestock perished, and lives were shattered.

Displaced families now live in makeshift camps, struggling with limited access to food and healthcare. Organizations like UNICEF have stepped in, offering support, particularly for children and pregnant women, but questions remain about long-term assistance.

The state government provided N25 million in relief materials, a small gesture compared to the massive needs and damages facing the community. The reality is, we often react only after disaster strikes. Floods like this are becoming too common. Without immediate action, we risk making these disasters our new normal.

We need a commitment to environmental responsibility. Local governments must take warnings seriously and improve infrastructure to withstand the realities of climate change. Our drainage systems and dams must be updated to handle modern challenges.

This isn’t just about protecting the environment; it’s about safeguarding lives. Climate change is an issue for everyone, not just specialists. It’s crucial for our survival and future prosperity.

The flood in Mokwa is a reminder that time is running out. We must act now—not just to rebuild, but to build smarter. We owe it to the victims and the generations to come to ensure that we prevent similar disasters in the future.

Let this be the moment we change. The floodwaters may recede, but the lessons must remain. Nature will not wait, and we cannot afford to ignore the signs any longer. Will we rise to this challenge?

Ahmad is an environmental advocate and climate policy analyst. For more insights on climate issues, you can check out the United Nations Climate Change for authoritative resources.

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