The Niger State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project has opened bids for the reclamation and restoration of the Mokwa gully erosion site, following the devastating flood disaster that hit the area in May 2025.
The State Project Coordinator of Niger ACReSAL, Raji Shehu, said the flooding, which attracted national and international attention, was caused by a combination of natural factors and human activities, particularly the obstruction and encroachment on natural waterways.
According to him, structures erected along flood channels significantly worsened the impact of the disaster as the floodwater forced its way through its natural route, submerging houses and other properties.
Shehu explained that an initial bid opening for the stormwater structure was conducted in April 2025, with the evaluation process completed and a successful company emerging.
However, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Abubakar Musa, said the contract award was suspended following the May 29, 2025, flood to allow for a more comprehensive assessment and redesign of the project.
He explained that the initial scope of work covered about 5.7 kilometres, but was expanded to approximately 17 kilometres following the disaster, with significant changes to the depth and width of the proposed intervention.
The Commissioner said the development necessitated fresh engineering measurements and evaluations, as well as a review of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and other safeguard requirements.
According to him, the processes were responsible for the delay in the procurement of the project.
“What we are witnessing today is the bid opening for the Mokwa stormwater structure and gully erosion intervention. From the figures being submitted by bidders, it is clear that the project is worth billions of naira,” Musa said.
He added that the bid opening is the first stage of the procurement process, after which technical and financial evaluations will be conducted before a successful contractor emerges.
The Commissioner said the state government intends to conclude the contract award process and engage the successful contractor during the rainy season to ensure full mobilisation to the site by September or October.
He expressed optimism that substantial work would be completed before the next rainy season, adding that the entire project is not expected to exceed 18 months.
Musa also assured residents that ACReSAL has put in place monitoring mechanisms, including project engineers and independent supervision consultants, to ensure quality and compliance with project specifications.
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Meanwhile, the Chairman of Mokwa Local Government Area, Jibrin Muregi, said residents of the area were satisfied with the government’s response and commitment to preventing a recurrence of the disaster.
Muregi said the local government had inaugurated a climate change committee to sensitise residents, particularly those living in flood-prone communities, on disaster prevention and early warning measures.
He added that residents of communities severely affected by the 2025 flood had been advised to vacate vulnerable locations and relocate to higher ground.
According to the council chairman, affected residents have complied with the directive, while construction and settlement within the disaster-prone area have been discouraged.
He said the measures were aimed at preventing loss of lives and property in the event of future flooding.
Muregi also expressed confidence in the administration of Governor Umaru Bago, saying the bid opening had renewed the hope that the people who work on the Mokwa erosion site would soon commence.
He urged the successful contractor to ensure quality and timely delivery of the project.
