In a heartfelt show of solidarity, the governments of Borno and Taraba states have come to the aid of flood-ravaged communities in Mokwa, Niger State, with a combined donation of ₦350 million. The support follows the recent devastating floods that left hundreds displaced and in urgent need of relief.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State personally led a delegation to Niger State’s capital, Minna, where he announced a ₦300 million donation to support the recovery efforts. Zulum was received by Niger State Governor Umar Bago, who described the intervention as “timely and deeply appreciated.”

According to Zulum, the funds were intended to complement Niger State’s ongoing efforts in providing relief and rebuilding lives. He noted that natural disasters like these underscore the urgent need for collaborative climate action at both state and federal levels.

“We must strengthen our collective response mechanisms to mitigate the impact of climate change,” Zulum said during the visit. “The Federal Government must also take the lead in developing a robust national framework to address these increasingly frequent natural disasters.”

Taraba Chips In with N50 Million & a Message of Solidarity

Also extending a hand of support was the Taraba State Government, represented by a high-level delegation led by Senator Manu Haruna. The team delivered a ₦50 million donation and expressed condolences on behalf of the Taraba State Government.

Senator Haruna emphasized that Taraba stands with the people of Niger in this difficult time and shares in the grief of families affected by the disaster.

Governor Bago, visibly moved by the show of unity, described the gesture as a sign of true national brotherhood. He also praised Governor Zulum’s consistent leadership style, calling him “dogged, proactive, and selfless.”

“Your visit and support are not only timely but also inspiring,” Bago said. “It gives us hope and motivates us to keep pushing in the face of this challenge.”

Red Cross Steps Up Relief Efforts on the Ground

In addition to the financial assistance from state governments, the Nigerian Red Cross Society has been actively distributing essential non-food relief items to flood-affected families.

According to Chima Nwankwo, the organisation’s Head of Communications, at least 100 displaced households have already received aid packages, including:

Sleeping mats and blankets

Camp beds and plastic buckets

Jerry cans for water storage

Mobile taps to encourage proper hygiene

Aquatabs for water purification

Shelter kits containing tools and materials to build temporary housing

“We are committed to staying on the ground and working with both SEMA and NEMA to monitor the evolving situation,” said Nwankwo. “Our priority is to ensure that the most vulnerable families get the support they need.”

Beyond the Floodwaters: A Wake-Up Call

As the water recedes, conversations are turning toward long-term solutions. Governor Bago noted that his administration has ramped up public awareness campaigns, urging communities to avoid building along flood-prone coastlines.

With over ₦350 million in direct financial aid, support from humanitarian organizations, and increased public health intervention, relief efforts are now gaining momentum. However, experts warn that unless more proactive climate and urban planning strategies are adopted, similar disasters could strike again—possibly with even greater consequences.

For now, Mokwa and its surrounding communities are beginning the long road to recovery—with helping hands reaching across state lines to make that journey a little easier.