The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating flood disaster in Niger State, which has claimed the lives of more than 160 people and destroyed homes, livelihoods, and vital infrastructure valued in billions of naira.
In a press statement issued yesterday in Abuja and signed by NEF spokesperson, Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, the forum extended heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and the people and government of Niger State, describing the tragedy as “catastrophic.”
“This painful tragedy is not an isolated event,” the statement read. “It echoes similar devastating floods that swept through several parts of Northern Nigeria in the past year, highlighting an alarming trend of recurrent natural disasters.”
NEF raised concerns over what it termed systemic failures in urban planning, environmental management, and disaster preparedness. It called on the federal government to launch an immediate and comprehensive relief effort in partnership with the Niger State government.
According to the statement, this response should include the urgent delivery of relief materials, medical and psychosocial support, and the restoration of essential services in the worst-hit communities.
The forum also called for a full investigation into the causes of the flood, recommending expert assessments of water infrastructure, drainage systems, land use practices, and emergency response mechanisms. The findings, it said, should inform a national flood mitigation strategy tailored to Northern Nigeria’s unique vulnerabilities.
NEF further urged long-term investment in modern flood control infrastructure, early warning systems, and public education efforts to enhance community-level preparedness in flood-prone regions.
Reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of all Nigerians, the Northern Elders Forum stated it stands in solidarity with the victims and will continue to advocate for policies that protect lives and restore dignity to affected communities.
