A Federal Government delegation, led by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, paid a sympathy visit to the government and people of Niger State on Saturday over the devastating flood that claimed over 150 lives and destroyed houses and livelihoods.
The delegation visited the Government House in Minna, where they were received by Governor Umaru Bago’s representative, Deputy Governor Comrade Yakubu Garba. The Governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sending the delegation to sympathize with the State, particularly the people of Mokwa.
The Governor stated that the incident has put the State in a shocking and devastating situation. He appreciated the swift response of relevant agencies in the search and rescue operations and called on the Federal Government to provide a temporary camp for the victims.
Governor Bago also announced that the State government has provided 6,000 bags of rice to the victims and is working to construct a stem water drainage system in Mokwa and Mashegu council areas to prevent future occurrences.
Mohammed Idris Malagi extended the condolences of the President and the Federal Executive Council, describing the disaster as “one too many.” He said the President has directed the deployment of all available resources to address the situation and mitigate future flood disasters.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Prof. Nantawe Yilwatda, expressed sadness over the incident and assured that the Ministry will collaborate with international communities to provide support to the affected people.
According to statistics, 151 corpses have been identified and buried, seven people are receiving treatment for injuries, 503 households have been affected, 265 houses destroyed, two major roads washed away, and three bridges collapsed in three communities in Mokwa Local Government Area.
