World Bank Halts Mokwa Erosion Project After Flood

The Niger State Project Coordinator of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), Raji Shehu Adam, announced that the World Bank halted a gully erosion control project in Mokwa after the catastrophic flood on May 29, 2025, which resulted in numerous fatalities and widespread displacement. Adam stated that the project was on the verge of being awarded when the flood struck, necessitating a report to the World Bank.

In response, the World Bank expanded the project's scope, requiring the state to restart the process. Adam confirmed that the procurement process was completed, with tenders opened and a report submitted for contractor engagement.

Umar Ibrahim Mohammed, Director-General of the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), indicated that Niger was classified as a high flood-risk area in 2026, with several local government areas, including Mokwa, projected to be affected. UNESCO officials emphasized the need for improved flood prevention and community preparedness.