Mokwa, Niger State – In response to the devastating floods that recently swept through Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, the Federal Government has approved the immediate release of ₦2 billion for the reconstruction of destroyed homes.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who visited the affected communities to commiserate with victims and state authorities. The floods, which began last week, claimed the lives of over 160 people and left more than 100 homes in ruins.
Shettima conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s deep sorrow over the disaster, stating that the President was “heartbroken by the tragedy that befell Mokwa” and had directed urgent intervention to support the victims and restore lost infrastructure.
“The President has approved ₦2 billion for the rebuilding of houses destroyed by the flood. He has also instructed that no effort be spared in bringing relief to those affected,” the Vice President said.
As part of the federal response, Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Abdullahi Sabi, an indigene of Niger State, has been directed to temporarily relocate to Mokwa to supervise recovery operations, including the reconstruction of collapsed bridges and distribution of relief materials.
“Senator Sabi will coordinate food distribution and other federal assistance to ensure it reaches the victims directly,” Shettima added.
The Vice President also offered prayers for the deceased and urged the people of Mokwa to remain resilient in the face of adversity, emphasizing that the Federal Government stands firmly with them during this difficult time.
Receiving the Vice President, Deputy Governor of Niger State, Yakubu Garba, described the flood as a national disaster and emphasized the strategic importance of Mokwa as a transit hub linking various parts of Nigeria. He noted that four major bridges had collapsed, further crippling transportation and commerce in the area.
“This tragedy has overwhelmed our state’s capacity. We urgently need the Federal Government’s support to rebuild not just homes, but the vital infrastructure that connects our communities,” Garba said.
He also highlighted the disproportionate impact on women, many of whom lost small businesses and sources of livelihood, calling for targeted support to aid their recovery.
In his remarks, Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, offered prayers for the bereaved and expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for its prompt response.
He also called for accelerated completion of the Mokwa bypass expressway and the reconstruction of other damaged infrastructure, underscoring their role in restoring the region’s economic and social activities.
Emergency responders, including the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), have been lauded for their swift intervention in rescuing and supporting displaced persons.
As recovery efforts begin, the approved funding is expected to provide a crucial lifeline to the devastated communities, many of whom are still reeling from the destruction.