The Director General of the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, NSEMA, Abdullahi Baba Arah, has disclosed that a total of 207 persons have so far died in the flood that ravaged two communities in the Mokwa area of the state.
Arah made this known while addressing journalists in Minna on the activities of the agency to mitigate various disasters that have occurred across the state.
He stated that 500 persons sustained varying degrees of injury as a result of the devastating flood in Mokwa, while the number of those still missing is yet to be ascertained.
The NSEMA DG noted that victims whose homes were destroyed by the flood were given the sum of N500,000 each to secure new accommodations. This support was provided in addition to other relief funds and foodstuffs distributed to alleviate their hardship.
Arah further explained that, as part of efforts to reduce flood risks in vulnerable communities, the agency launched its annual flood sensitization and early warning campaigns across the eight emirate councils of Niger State, urging residents living along waterways to relocate to safer areas.
“These efforts aimed at increasing public awareness, encouraging preparedness, and reducing flood risks in vulnerable communities through community engagements and the distribution of educational materials,” the DG explained.
He also stated that, beyond flood interventions, NSEMA has been working tirelessly to support victims of both residential and commercial fire outbreaks across various parts of the state. These include incidents such as the dynamite explosion at Sabon Pegi, the Diko tanker explosion, and the Agaie tanker explosion, among others.
Arah extended his gratitude to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago for the support extended to the agency, which has enabled it to perform its duties effectively. He also appreciated traditional institutions, community leaders, volunteers, and humanitarian partners for their continued support.
“While also appreciating traditional institutions, community leaders, volunteers, and humanitarian partners for their continued support,” he said.
Arah reaffirmed NSEMA’s commitment to responding swiftly and effectively to disasters, while promoting risk reduction and resilience in all communities
