Key Takeaways
- The World Bank suspended a gully erosion control project in Mokwa, Niger State, after a devastating flood in May 2025
- The flood killed dozens of people, displaced hundreds, and caused extensive damage to homes and infrastructure
- The project scope was expanded after the state government reported the flood incident to the World Bank
The Niger State Project Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), Raji Shehu Adam, revealed that the World Bank ordered the suspension of the project after the devastating flood of May 29, 2025. This flood had a significant impact on the community, killing dozens of people, leaving hundreds displaced, and causing extensive damage to homes, roads, and critical infrastructure. The project, which was initially on the verge of being awarded, had to be halted as the state government reported the development to the World Bank.
According to Adam, the World Bank expanded the scope of the project after the state government reported the flood incident. The procurement process has been completed, and the tender has been opened and submitted for the engagement of a contractor. The Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, noted that Niger is among the states classified as high flood-risk areas in 2026, with several local government areas, including Mashegu, Edati, Mokwa, Gbako, and Agaie, being high-risk areas.
Flood Prevention and Resilience
The Chairman of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme, Prof. David Jimoh, emphasized the need for flood prevention and resilience in communities. He urged governments and stakeholders to prioritize flood prevention, preparedness, and resilience instead of relying mainly on emergency responses. The UNESCO Abuja Office Officer-in-Charge, Dr Damitri Sanga, explained that the initiative is designed to address the gaps in flood prevention and resilience, particularly in Mokwa, where the 2025 floods claimed over 500 lives and displaced thousands.
Why This Matters
The suspension of the gully erosion control project in Niger State highlights the importance of building flood resilience and prevention in communities. By prioritizing flood prevention and resilience, governments and stakeholders can reduce the impact of devastating floods and save lives, making it essential to address the gaps in early warning information and timely action by communities.