In response to the recent devastating flood in Mokwa, Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has announced a major relief package to support affected communities. During an on-the-spot visit to the disaster site, Governor Bago pledged ₦1 billion in cash support, 50 trucks of assorted food grains, and the approval of a ₦7 billion road project to improve infrastructure in the area.
Addressing residents during the visit, the Governor expressed deep sympathy with the victims and assured them that all donations would be fairly distributed through a special committee headed by Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba.
Relief Materials and Resettlement Plans
The relief effort includes 10 trucks each of rice, beans, maize, millet, and sorghum to provide immediate food assistance. Governor Bago also disclosed plans to resettle the displaced victims, instructing the Ministry of Lands and Survey to issue a Certificate of Occupancy to the Federal Government for the prompt construction of resettlement homes.
While awaiting Federal intervention, the state government promised to provide temporary arrangements to ensure displaced residents do not remain in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps for too long.
Humanitarian Impact of the Mokwa Flood
During the Governor’s visit, Acting Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Hussaini Ibrahim, shared a sobering account of the flood’s toll:
206 people dead, including children
82 injured, many critically
458 homes destroyed
180 hectares of farmland submerged
3,534 residents displaced
9,560 people urgently in need of food, water, shelter, and medical support
“Entire families have been uprooted, livelihoods destroyed, and communities left in ruins,” Ibrahim reported.
Stakeholders Commend Relief Efforts
The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji, urged residents to stay strong in faith and praised the Governor’s swift response. Traditional leaders, including the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the State Traditional Rulers Council, Yahaya Abubakar, and former Deputy Governor Ahmed Ketso, also commended Governor Bago for his proactive leadership and humanitarian efforts.
Governor Bago thanked the Federal Government, donor agencies, and private individuals for their solidarity and contributions, offering prayers for the repose of those who lost their lives in the tragedy.
