In a significant humanitarian and infrastructural intervention, the Niger State Government has announced a N7 billion investment for the reconstruction of the Mokwa-Raba Road and the repair of four bridges recently destroyed by flooding.
The announcement was made by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago during his visit to the Tiffin Madza Primary School in Mokwa, where hundreds of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are currently housed.
In addition to the reconstruction project, Governor Bago declared the immediate release of N1 billion in cash support and 50 trucks of grains including rice, beans, maize, millet, and sorghum for the affected families.
“Each of the affected families will receive financial support to cover rent while awaiting the completion of their new homes,” Bago stated.
He emphasized that the state government is working with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide long-term resettlement solutions.
The governor directed the Ministry for Land and Survey to issue Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to the Federal Government to kickstart the construction of permanent resettlement homes.
These new settlements, Bago said, will be equipped with essential infrastructure schools, health facilities, proper drainage systems, and culverts to mitigate future flooding disasters.
“We are committed to not just relief but also rebuilding lives,” he added, noting that the IDP camp would remain active until the end of June 2025.
Accountability and Transparency
Bago reassured victims that all donations including monetary and material contributions from individuals, NGOs, and international partners would be fully utilized for the purpose they were donated.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) confirmed that 206 lives were lost to the recent floods, though the figure slightly differs from the 208 earlier reported by the Deputy Governor during Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s visit.
The Governor’s response has received praise from notable figures, including the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Daji, Etsu Nupe Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, and former Deputy Governor Mohammed Ketso.
However, ActionAid Nigeria has raised concerns about the conditions in the IDP camps, warning that many affected residents, particularly women, are refusing to sleep in the camps due to poor amenities.
“The camps lack basic essentials like toilets, clean water, and secure shelter,” ActionAid said. “This is forcing victims to sleep in open spaces or in their damaged homes, risking further hardship.”
Governor Bago offered prayers for the flood victims and reiterated his administration’s determination to restore lives and infrastructure, urging all stakeholders to collaborate for faster recovery.
The 9am News report notes that the flooding is one of the most devastating in recent history for Niger State, highlighting the urgent need for climate resilience, sustainable planning, and effective emergency response systems.
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