On a somber visit to Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago announced a ₦1 billion donation to support victims of a catastrophic flood that claimed over 200 lives and displaced thousands of residents. The flood, one of the worst in the region’s recent history, destroyed homes, farmlands, and infrastructure, leaving communities grappling with immense loss. The governor’s pledge, made during an on-site assessment, is intended to facilitate immediate relief, recovery, and long-term resettlement efforts for the affected families.
In addition to the financial aid, Governor Bago provided 50 trucks of essential grains, including rice and millet, to address the immediate food needs of the displaced. He emphasized the importance of avoiding settlements along waterways, citing their vulnerability to recurrent flooding, and assured transparency in managing the donated funds and resources. To prevent future disasters, the state government plans to construct a permanent drainage system and concrete bridges in Mokwa to enhance flood resilience.
The governor also addressed long-term solutions for the displaced, directing the Ministry of Lands to issue a Certificate of Occupancy to the Federal Government for a permanent resettlement site. Temporary financial assistance for rent will be provided to affected families until the completion of new housing units by June next year. This dual approach of immediate relief and sustainable planning underscores the state’s commitment to addressing both the immediate and future needs of Mokwa’s flood victims.
In a parallel development, Governor Bago awarded a ₦7 billion contract for the rehabilitation and expansion of the Mokwa-Raba Road, a critical infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity and mitigating flood-related isolation. The project includes the construction of four new bridges to replace those damaged or at risk, ensuring safer and more reliable transportation routes. This initiative is expected to bolster economic activity in the region by facilitating the movement of goods and people, even during adverse weather conditions.
The Mokwa-Raba Road project aligns with the state’s broader infrastructure development goals, prioritizing resilience against natural disasters. Governor Bago highlighted that the new bridges and improved road network would prevent communities from being cut off during heavy rains, a recurring challenge in Mokwa. The contract award has been met with optimism, as local leaders and residents anticipate long-term benefits from enhanced infrastructure.
The combined efforts of the ₦1 billion donation and the ₦7 billion road project reflect a comprehensive strategy to address both the humanitarian and infrastructural challenges in Mokwa. The state government’s proactive measures, including the planned drainage system and resettlement initiatives, aim to provide lasting solutions to the region’s flood vulnerability. Governor Bago reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring that all interventions are executed transparently and efficiently, with the welfare of Mokwa’s residents at the forefront.
The response to the Mokwa flood disaster has also drawn attention to the need for coordinated efforts between state and federal authorities. By facilitating land allocation for permanent resettlement, Niger State is working closely with federal agencies to ensure displaced families are adequately supported. The temporary rent assistance program is designed to bridge the gap until permanent housing is ready, offering a lifeline to those who have lost everything.
Local communities have expressed gratitude for the governor’s swift response, though some have called for accelerated timelines to ensure relief reaches the most vulnerable. The state’s commitment to transparency, as emphasized by Governor Bago, will be critical in maintaining public trust as these projects unfold. The ₦1 billion donation, coupled with the substantial road project investment, positions Niger State as a model for disaster response and infrastructure development in the region.
Looking ahead, the state government plans to engage community leaders to ensure that relief efforts are tailored to the specific needs of Mokwa’s residents. The construction of the drainage system and bridges will involve collaboration with engineering experts to meet high standards of durability and effectiveness. These measures aim to safeguard Mokwa against future flooding, which has become increasingly severe due to climate-related challenges.
The Mokwa-Raba Road project is also expected to create job opportunities for local residents, providing an economic boost to the flood-ravaged area. Contractors have been urged to prioritize local labor and materials, fostering community involvement and ownership of the project. This approach not only supports economic recovery but also strengthens community resilience in the face of future challenges.
The governor’s visit to Mokwa included meetings with traditional rulers and local officials, who commended the state’s rapid response but stressed the need for sustained support. The ₦1 billion donation will be disbursed through a structured relief committee to ensure equitable distribution to affected households. Regular updates on the progress of both the relief efforts and the road project will be provided to maintain public confidence.
