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By Tracy Moses
Borno and Taraba state governments have donated the sum of N300 million and N50 million respectively to victims of the devastating flash floods in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, which claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands.
The Borno State delegation was led by Governor Babagana Umaru Zulum, while the Taraba State delegation was headed by Senator Haruna Manu, who represents Taraba Central Senatorial District.
Announcing the N300 million donation during a sympathy visit to Government House, Minna, Governor Zulum said he was deeply pained by the tragic loss of lives and properties. He noted that though the donation cannot bring back the lost souls, it is meant to support Niger State’s efforts in addressing the far-reaching impact of the disaster.
“Many lives have been lost and properties worth several billions of Naira destroyed, including sources of livelihood. This is a time for all subnational governments to work collectively to mitigate the effects of climate change,” Zulum said.
He also called on the federal government to establish robust and proactive mechanisms to respond to and prevent climate-induced disasters across the country.
Speaking to Pointblanknews.com, Borno State Commissioner for Environment, Engr. Kabiru Wanori, who was part of the delegation, said, “We have seen firsthand the level of destruction here in Mokwa. What has happened is beyond a state problem; it’s a national emergency. We must invest in early warning systems and infrastructure that protect vulnerable communities.”
From Niger State, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Ahmed Suleiman Yikpata, told Pointblanknews.com that the situation remains dire, but support from sister states such as Borno and Taraba has brought renewed hope.
“We are grateful to Governor Zulum and Senator Manu. Their presence and support go beyond the money. It shows we are not alone in this tragedy,” he said.
Also speaking, Senator Manu, who presented Taraba’s N50 million donation, described the disaster as a monumental tragedy, saying Taraba State shares deeply in the grief of the people of Niger.
In his response, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State thanked both Borno and Taraba state governments for the show of love, solidarity, and financial support. He assured that the funds would be transparently and judiciously used to benefit the affected communities.
Governor Bago also revealed that extensive advocacy efforts are ongoing to educate communities on the dangers of settling along flood-prone coastal lines, as part of long-term strategies to prevent future occurrences.