In response to the recent devastating floods in Mokwa, Niger State, President Bola Tinubu has approved the release of N2 billion for the reconstruction of the town to provide immediate resettlement for displaced residents. He also ordered the deployment of 20 trucks carrying assorted food items to aid affected communities.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made the announcement on Wednesday while leading a federal government delegation to commiserate with the government and people of Niger State.
“The President asked me to convey his sympathy and to assure you that the federal government will do everything possible to ease your suffering,” Shettima said.
The President also directed the Ministries of Environment and Agriculture to begin immediate reconstruction of damaged drainage systems in Mokwa. In addition, the Vice President pledged to facilitate the release of electricity transformers to replace those damaged during the flooding.
Shettima called on all levels of government to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts. “This is not about politics; this is a humanitarian intervention,” he emphasized, urging residents to maintain peace and unity.
To oversee the implementation of the relief measures, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Sabi Abdullahi, has been instructed to relocate to Minna to supervise food distribution and drainage reconstruction.
Providing updates on the disaster’s toll, Niger State Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, revealed that 13,354 individuals were directly affected, with 4,534 displaced. The disaster also claimed 161 lives, injured 186 people, and left 84 missing. Infrastructural damage includes 265 destroyed buildings, two major roads, and the collapse of five key bridges, including the strategic Goodwill Bridge linking Mokwa to other regions.
The district head of Ndalile, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu Shaba, appealed for continued support and prayers for the victims.
Meanwhile, the Niger State Government has directed that this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebrations be observed on a low scale, suspending major festivities such as the Hawan Bariki and Durbar processions. According to Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, the decision is in respect for the victims and to allow for mourning and reflection.
