In the wake of a catastrophic flood that wreaked havoc in Mokwa Local Government Area, Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has unveiled a sweeping relief and infrastructure intervention package to aid victims and prevent future disasters.
During a visit to the internally displaced persons (IDP) camp at Tiffin Madza Primary School, where hundreds of flood victims are temporarily sheltered, Governor Bago announced a ₦1 billion relief fund and the delivery of fifty trucks of assorted grains to support affected families.
“The government is fully committed to restoring comfort and normalcy to your lives,” the governor said, offering prayers for the victims. “Allah has destined everything, and He will comfort the people during this difficult time.”
In a bold move to address the region’s vulnerability to flooding, Governor Bago disclosed that the state has awarded the Mokwa-Raba Road project, which includes the construction of four new bridges, at a total cost of ₦7 billion.
According to the governor, the infrastructure upgrade is designed to enhance mobility, facilitate commerce, and ensure communities are not cut off during future flooding seasons.
“This project will not only ease movement but also serve as a preventive measure to protect our people from being isolated in the event of disasters,” he said.
Governor Bago also issued a stern warning against building on waterways, a practice he said worsens the impact of floods. He revealed that the Ministry of Lands has been directed to issue a Certificate of Occupancy to the Federal Government to enable the permanent resettlement of displaced persons.
While the IDP camp remains a temporary arrangement until the end of June, the governor assured that each displaced family will receive financial assistance to secure accommodation pending the completion of permanent housing solutions.
Giving a grim update on the humanitarian toll, Hussaini Ibrahim, Acting Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), described the situation as “heartbreaking” and called for continued support from both government and humanitarian partners.
According to Ibrahim:
“Entire families have been uprooted, livelihoods destroyed, and communities broken,” he lamented.
The scale of devastation in Mokwa has prompted calls for greater national attention and swift interventions. Governor Bago urged federal authorities, development partners, and well-meaning Nigerians to support recovery efforts.
“This is a moment for unity and compassion,” the governor added. “We must work together to rebuild not only homes but also the hopes of our people.”
Leave a Comment