The Federal Government has pledged the immediate release of N2 billion to rebuild homes damaged by recent flooding in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State. Vice President Kashim Shettima made this known during his visit to the affected communities on Wednesday, where he met with local leaders and grieving families.
The flood, which struck the area last week, caused severe destruction, leading to the deaths of more than 160 people and the destruction of over 100 homes. Many families have been left homeless, and several bridges connecting the region to other parts of the state have collapsed, cutting off vital road access.
During the visit, Vice President Shettima conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s sorrow over the tragedy and assured residents that the Federal Government was taking steps to help them recover.
“The President is heartbroken by the tragedy that befell Mokwa. He has directed swift action to ease the suffering of the people and to help rebuild what has been lost,” Shettima said.
He also shared that President Tinubu personally approved the N2 billion fund to assist in rebuilding homes for those who lost their properties.
According to Shettima, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Senator Abdullahi Sabi, who is from Niger State, has been asked to temporarily relocate to Mokwa to lead and supervise the rebuilding process and other relief efforts.
Shettima added, “The Minister is tasked with ensuring that food items and relief materials provided by the Federal Government are properly distributed to those affected.”
Prayers were offered for those who lost their lives, and Shettima encouraged residents to remain strong and united during these difficult times.
Niger State Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba, who accompanied Shettima, described the disaster as a national emergency. He called for stronger federal support and applauded emergency workers and volunteers for their efforts. Garba also pointed out that Mokwa is a major route linking several parts of Nigeria, and its damaged bridges have serious implications for transportation and commerce.
He also requested focused help for women affected by the disaster, especially those whose small businesses were destroyed by the flood.
