Nigeria – Widespread Flooding in Kogi State After Niger River Overflows

Days of flooding from the overflowing Niger river has displaced over 50,000 people in the state of Kogi in central Nigeria.

Governor of the state, Chief Edward David Onoja, visited affected areas in Lokoja, situated at the confluence of the Niger and Benue rivers, on 14 September.

The flood situation has worsened since then and local media report that at least 66 communities in the state have been affected and 1 person is thought to have died. Officials report that at least 50,000 people have been forced to evacuate their homes. Some have found temporary accommodation in schools and other public buildings, while others are sleeping on roads and in other open spaces. Many victims have lost their livelihoods after crops and livestock were washed away.

Social Media

Kogi Deputy Governor @ed_onoja along side the State Commissioner for Environment and Secretary of State Emergency Management Authority (SEMA), Inspects the Rising Flood Level at the Banks of River Nigeria, in Lokoja Kogi State.

14th September, 2020 pic.twitter.com/WgBfWnMMU9

— Abdulslimzy (@abdulslimzy) September 14, 2020

I pondered on #ClimateChange impacts and realised these are currently common sights in Kogi State. #Floods, #displacements, loss of farmlands and vulnerability to health problems are evident. Does the state Govt has policy to mitigate these challenges #ClimateCrisis @kogireports pic.twitter.com/TAq7FwOI8f

— Olugbenga (@OluAdanikin) September 18, 2020