In the aftermath of the catastrophic flood in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, Governor Umar Bago has unveiled a comprehensive intervention package to support displaced residents and rebuild critical infrastructure.
During a visit to internally displaced persons (IDPs) at the temporary camp at Tiffin Madza Primary School, the governor announced the donation of ₦1 billion and 50 trucks of assorted grains to flood victims. He assured displaced families of continued assistance, including financial support for rent and plans for permanent housing.
To bolster long-term regional resilience, Governor Bago revealed the award of the Mokwa–Raba Road project, including the construction of four new bridges, at a cost of ₦7 billion. He said the project would improve accessibility, enhance local commerce, and help mitigate future flood risks.
The governor also warned residents against building on waterways, attributing much of the flood’s devastation to poor urban planning. He instructed the Ministry of Lands to issue a Certificate of Occupancy to the Federal Government to fast-track permanent resettlement of affected persons.
“The government is fully committed to restoring comfort and normalcy to your lives,” Bago stated. “Allah has destined everything, and He will comfort the people during this difficult time.”
The Acting Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), Hussaini Ibrahim, provided a sobering update on the disaster’s toll:
- 206 lives lost (men, women, and children)
- 82 people injured
- 458 homes destroyed
- 180 hectares of farmland submerged
- 3,534 people displaced
- 9,560 residents in urgent need of food, clean water, shelter, and medical care
“Entire families have been uprooted, livelihoods destroyed, and communities broken,” Hussaini said.
The temporary IDP camp will remain operational through the end of the month, pending relocation efforts.
