A swift and compassionate response from the Nigerian Federal Government is underway following the devastating floods in Mokwa, Niger State. President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated his commitment to the affected community by approving an immediate allocation of N2 billion for the reconstruction of homes. This significant financial aid was announced by Vice President Kashim Shettima during his visit to Mokwa, where he personally conveyed the President's condolences and assurance of federal support.
Beyond financial assistance, President Tinubu has also sanctioned the distribution of 20 trucks of food items to the flood victims, to be disbursed in close collaboration with the Village Head of Mokwa to ensure it reaches those most in need. Furthermore, to address the underlying issues contributing to such disasters, the President has directed the Ministers for Environment and state for Agriculture to relocate to Niger and oversee immediate interventions under the ACRSAL project, focusing specifically on drainage improvements in Mokwa.
The visit also highlighted the collaborative spirit between the federal and state governments. Niger State Deputy Governor, Mr. Yakubu Garba, underscored the profound impact of the floods, revealing that over 2,000 houses were destroyed and appealing for urgent federal intervention, particularly for the four collapsed bridges that have crippled social and economic activities, notably in Rabba. He also noted the availability of land in the state for building new homes for the displaced.
Community leaders, including the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, seized the opportunity to advocate for broader infrastructural development in the region. He specifically called for the federal government's attention to stalled road projects like the one bypassing Mokwa town due to compensation issues, and the completion of vital routes such as the Mokwa-Brini-Gwari Kaduna, Lambata-Bida, Bida-Patigi, and Agaie-Match Boro roads. The Etsu Nupe also urged the deployment of an ecological team to tackle ongoing environmental challenges in Mokwa.
Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu, the Village Head of Mokwa, expressed profound gratitude for the federal government's prompt and unwavering support in the wake of the disaster. This comprehensive response underscores a commitment to both immediate relief and long-term solutions for the people of Mokwa.
