The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has conducted an extensive assessment of the flood disaster that has severely impacted many communities across Mokwa Local Government Area in Niger State, on Sunday .
According to Mrs. Zubaida Umar, the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), The flooding has caused widespread destruction, displacing thousands of residents and damaging critical infrastructure.
One of the major challenges resulting from the disaster is the collapse of the main Eppa bridge, which serves as the primary link between Jaagi community and Mokwa town.
With the bridge out of commission, access to essential areas has been significantly hindered, making relief efforts more difficult.
Furthermore, the floodwaters have submerged most of the access roads, leaving many communities stranded.
“So far, over 6,400 people have been displaced, forced to abandon their homes due to rising waters.”
The agricultural sector has also suffered greatly, with over 15,000 hectares of farmland completely destroyed, a devastating blow to the livelihoods of many local farmers.
In addition to the loss of farmland, the floods have severely affected key public services in the area.
“A total of 45 schools have been damaged, disrupting education for hundreds of students, while 44 primary healthcare centers have been impacted, limiting access to medical care for residents.”
“NEMA is working closely with the Niger State government to provide relief and support to the affected communities.”
“This includes the distribution of essential supplies and resources, as well as efforts to repair and restore damaged infrastructure.”
The agency remains committed to ensuring that those affected by the disaster receive the necessary assistance to rebuild their lives.
As recovery efforts continue, NEMA and the state government are urging for increased support from both federal authorities and other stakeholders to aid in the rehabilitation of the affected areas and prevent further disasters in the future.
