Mokwa Flood: Niger Gov Donates ₦1bn Awards ₦7bn Road Project.
In reaction to the tragic flood calamity in Niger State’s Mokwa Local Government Area, Governor Umaru Bago has proposed a series of interventions aimed at rebuilding hope and lives.
During his visit to the temporary camp at Tiffin Madza Primary School, where hundreds of internally displaced persons (IDPs) are now accommodated, the governor said that the state government has contributed ₦1 billion and fifty trucks of varied grains to support flood victims.The governor announced the award of the Mokwa-Raba Road project, which includes the construction of four new bridges at a cost of ₦7 billion.
He stated that the initiative will facilitate transportation, boost local trade, and reduce isolation during future flooding.
Governor Bago also warned citizens against constructing on waterways, stating that such actions exacerbate the severity of flood disasters. He stated that the Ministry of Lands has been directed to give a Certificate of Occupancy to the Federal Government to allow the permanent resettlement of affected individuals.
While the existing IDP camp will be temporary till the end of the month, the governor has informed each displaced family that they would receive rent support while they await the completion of new homes.
“The government is fully committed to restoring comfort and normalcy to your lives,” said Bago, the governor. He also offered his prayers for the victims, stating, “Allah has destined everything, and He will comfort the people during this difficult time.”
During the visit, Hussaini Ibrahim, the Acting Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), provided a devastating assessment of the flood’s impact:
There were 206 deaths, including men, women, and children.
82 others incurred injuries, many of which were severe.
458 dwellings were totally demolished.
180 hectares of farmland were inundated.
3,534 individuals were displaced and are currently living in improvised shelters.
Furthermore, 9,560 individuals continue to require immediate humanitarian assistance, such as food, clean water, shelter, and medical care.
“The scale of destruction is heartbreaking,” Hussaini remarked. “Entire families have been uprooted, livelihoods destroyed, and communities broken.”