President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate mobilisation of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant federal agencies to provide urgent assistance to victims of the devastating flood disaster in Mokwa local government area of Niger State.
In a swift response to what he described as a “distressing tragedy,” President Tinubu vowed that the federal government would deliver a coordinated and compassionate relief effort to affected communities.
At least 100 lives were feared lost, with 75 bodies already recovered and buried. Over 100 persons remained unaccounted for, according to local authorities, as search-and-rescue operations continued in the submerged communities.
Niger Flood: 117 Bodies Recovered As NEMA Intensifies Search For More Victims
Reacting to the incident on Saturday via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @officialABAT, the President said he had received a full briefing on the scale of destruction and had immediately activated the National Emergency Response Centre.
“Upon receiving initial reports, I immediately directed the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre. I have also been briefed by NEMA on the scale of the disaster and the urgent humanitarian needs,” Tinubu said.
The President added that federal relief supplies, including food, medical supplies, and temporary shelter, were already being deployed to the disaster zone.
“All relevant federal agencies have been mobilised to support the Niger State Government in rescue and relief operations. We will ensure no Nigerian is left behind in this tragedy,” he assured.
President Tinubu also directed security agencies to support the emergency response, ensuring that lives are saved and order maintained as recovery efforts intensify.
Offering condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Niger State, the President said, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the good people of Niger State. The entire nation shares in your grief.”
He called on Nigerians to keep the victims and their families in their prayers, urging collective compassion and solidarity during this time of national mourning.
Emergency responders continue to assess the extent of damage, while rescue efforts remain ongoing to locate missing persons and prevent further casualties.
