326
By Myke Agunwa
President Bola Tinubu has announced a donation of N2 billion and 20 trucks of grain as support from the federal government to the victims of the torrential rainfall that submerged three communities in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger state.
The flood, which occurred on the night of May 29, has killed over 200 people, affected 503 households and displaced 3,018 residents with thousands still missing.
The President arrived in Mokwa at about 12:30 pm and was received by Yakubu Garba, deputy governor of Niger; Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe and chairman of the Niger state traditional council; and members of the state executive council.
During a visit to the local government, Tinubu who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima said that the President has directed immediate intervention to provide relief to the victims of the disaster. He said that the tragedy affected every corner of the nation due to the strategic position Mokwa occupies in the country.
“Mokwa has always stood as a vital crossroads in Nigeria’s geography and commerce. It is an agricultural hub and a cultural stronghold that connects the north and the south,” he said.
“This makes your pain a shared national burden. While this disaster is devastating, it will not define you. We will rebuild. We will restore the vibrancy for which Mokwa is known.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, sends his heartfelt condolences and stands in solidarity with you during this trying time.
“He has directed immediate action to assess the damage and provide the necessary support to aid your recovery.
“We came to you today not just as your political representatives and leaders but as fellow Nigerians deeply moved by the tragedy that has befallen your community.
“Our hearts ache for the lives lost, the homes destroyed, and the livelihoods disrupted.”
Reaffirming that the flooding was caused by climate change disruptions, he said the federal government is also focused on getting a permanent solution to prevent a repeat.
“The federal government remains committed to addressing the ecological challenges that have contributed to this crisis,” he said.
“In times like these, we are reminded that a tragedy in one part of our nation is a sorrow shared by all. The preservation of life, whether threatened by natural calamities or human actions, is a responsibility we all share.
“The greatest honour we can give to those we have lost in this regrettable tragedy is our commitment to a future where such disasters are reduced through proactive measures and sustainable practices.”
Receiving the guest, Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago who was represented by the deputy governor Yakubu Garba, thanked the federal government for standing with the state when it matters most.
“Within 24 hours, NEMA was on the ground physically to ascertain what happened to us and to ensure that such a rescue mission was carried out practically. And we cannot thank them enough,” he said.
He described the visit by the vice-president as a reassurance of Tinubu’s commitment to the people.
The Etsu Nupe also thanked Tinubu for approving the immediate release of interventions to the affected areas.
The federal government delegation included Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, and Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, minister of state for agriculture and food security — both from Niger state.