In response to the devastating petrol tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Niger State, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has distributed essential relief supplies, including food, non-food items, and medical aid, to support the treatment of injured victims and assist affected families.
NEMA made the announcement on Tuesday, detailing its efforts to provide immediate relief following the tragic incident.
The explosion occurred on Saturday morning along the Dikko-Maje Road, near Baddegi Station. Reports indicate that the explosion was caused when a tanker, loaded with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), crashed and spilled its contents during an attempt to transfer the fuel to another tanker. The spilled fuel ignited after coming into contact with a generator used in the transfer, triggering the deadly blast.
The disaster resulted in 98 fatalities, left 69 people injured, and destroyed 20 shops in the area.
NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, visited the affected community and launched the distribution of relief materials. She stated that the intervention was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive and reflected the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the community’s recovery from the catastrophe.
Mrs. Umar emphasized, “Based on the initial rapid assessment carried out by NEMA, NSEMA, and other first responders, we are here to provide immediate assistance, including food, non-food items, and medical supplies, to the affected families.”
While expressing sympathy for the victims, Mrs. Umar reassured the community that NEMA would coordinate comprehensive efforts to aid their recovery. She also highlighted the importance of disaster preparedness and proactive measures to protect lives and property.
The NEMA chief commended the quick actions of first responders, including NEMA, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), firefighters, the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, medical personnel, security forces, and local community members, whose swift response helped save lives and reduce further damage.
The event was attended by the Deputy Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Afiniki Daudu, who thanked the Federal Government for its prompt response and timely delivery of relief supplies through NEMA. Also present were Alhaji Abdulhalim Abubakar, Chairman of Gurara Local Government Area, Abdullahi Arah, Director General of Niger State SEMA, and other community leaders.
