President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate activation of the National Emergency Response Centre in the wake of the devastating floods in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, which have left over 150 people dead and displaced more than 3,000 families.
The directive came early Saturday after the President was briefed on the scale of the disaster. According to initial reports, at least 75 victims have already been buried, while over 100 remain missing as search-and-rescue operations intensify.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy, President Tinubu vowed that the federal government would respond swiftly and compassionately to support affected communities. In a statement posted via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, @officialABAT, he said, “Upon receiving initial reports, I immediately directed the activation of the National Emergency Response Centre. I have also been briefed by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on the scale of the disaster and the urgent humanitarian needs.”
The President confirmed that federal agencies, including NEMA, have been mobilised in collaboration with the Niger State Government to accelerate rescue efforts and deliver emergency relief materials, including temporary shelters, to affected families.
“Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing, and all relevant federal agencies have been mobilised to support the state government’s efforts,” he stated. “We will ensure that no Nigerian affected by this disaster is left behind or unheard of.”
President Tinubu also directed security agencies to assist emergency responders to safeguard lives and facilitate the distribution of relief materials. He emphasized the government’s commitment to a response that not only prioritizes immediate needs but also upholds the dignity of every survivor and expedites community recovery.
“I assure all those impacted that your government stands with you,” Tinubu said. “We will continue to coordinate with the Niger State Government to ensure a swift, coordinated, and compassionate response, one that prioritises lives, restores dignity and accelerates recovery.”
In a heartfelt message of condolence, the President mourned with the bereaved families and expressed solidarity with the people of Niger State. “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the good people of Niger State at this difficult time. In times of adversity, we draw strength from our unity, resilience, and shared humanity,” he said.
Tinubu called on Nigerians to keep the victims and their families in their thoughts and prayers, noting that national tragedies demand collective empathy and action.
What You Should Know
President Tinubu’s swift directive to activate the National Emergency Response Centre following the Niger floods underscores his administration’s commitment to disaster relief.
With over 150 lives lost and thousands displaced, federal agencies are racing to provide aid and restore normalcy to affected communities.
