The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that no fewer than 165 Nigerians have lost their lives and 82 others remain missing due to widespread flood disasters that have ravaged several parts of the country in 2025.
This alarming update was made public by NEMA Director-General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, during a media briefing at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja on Friday. According to her, torrential rainfall, overflowing rivers, and poor urban drainage systems contributed significantly to the tragic outcomes of this year’s flood season.
“As of the end of July 2025, we can confirm that 165 lives have been lost in various flood-related incidents nationwide. Unfortunately, 82 persons are still unaccounted for, and search and rescue operations are ongoing in affected states,” said Mrs. Umar.
She noted that thousands of households have been displaced, while farmland, roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure have been severely damaged. In some cases, entire communities were submerged, particularly in parts of Niger, Kogi, Benue, Rivers, and Bayelsa States.
NEMA has swiftly deployed emergency response teams, in partnership with state emergency agencies (SEMA), the Nigerian Red Cross, and other humanitarian partners. Relief materials, including food, blankets, mattresses, hygiene kits, and temporary shelters, are being distributed to internally displaced families.
Medical teams have also been dispatched to help prevent the outbreak of waterborne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid, especially in overcrowded shelters and camps.
“We are doing everything within our capacity to ensure that displaced persons receive the help they need to survive this difficult period,” Mrs. Umar emphasized.
In line with seasonal forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), NEMA had earlier warned of heavy rainfall and potential flooding in over 30 states this year. The agency is now urging residents in flood-prone areas to remain alert and heed early warning messages.
“We appeal to Nigerians to avoid crossing flooded roads, to evacuate when advised, and to support efforts by local authorities to relocate from dangerous zones,” Mrs. Umar added.
She also called on state governments to intensify efforts in clearing blocked drainages, enforcing building regulations, and providing safe shelters for those at risk.
NEMA has urged the media and the public to rely solely on official updates to avoid misinformation and panic. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accurate reporting throughout the remainder of the 2025 flood season.
While the loss of lives is deeply regrettable, NEMA reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience in collaboration with both federal and sub-national partners. Long-term plans include investment in flood early warning systems, relocation of high-risk communities, and improved disaster education at the grassroots level.