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Niger’s Flood Victims Receive Aid, as Vice President Shettima Visits IDPs Camp

In a showing of solidarity with the thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Vice President Kashim Shettima visited the camp in Gwada, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger state on Friday. The visit was conducted at the directive of President Bola Tinubu to provide relief to the camp residents, who have been affected by floods and insecurity.

During his visit, Shettima reaffirmed the President’s commitment to alleviating the suffering of the people in the camp, acknowledging that many lives have been lost, and livelihoods as well as property have been severely impacted. Fourteen local government areas have been affected in Niger, according to the Vice President.

Shettima led an assessment tour, which included the government and people of Niger state, where he assured them that President Tinubu is poised to support all states of the federation affected by flooding. N3 billion has been allocated to each state to tackle issues related to flooding. Furthermore, a scientific approach will be taken to evaluate the states most affected, with the deserving ones being fully supported.

The recent tanker explosion in Niger, which claimed the lives of 60 people, also drew attention from Shettima. He highlighted President Tinubu’s decisive action in addressing infrastructure challenges, specifically on the East-West and Badagry-to-Sokoto roads where the accident occurred. According to Shettima, the government will continue to address the country’s infrastructure deficit.

Governor Umaru Bago of Niger, who accompanied the Vice President, expressed solidarity with the people affected by the flood disasters and insecurity. He praised the President for releasing funds to cater for the victims of flooding across the country and assured that the state government will continue to support the federal government in addressing social challenges.

Among the items donated to the IDPs by the Vice President were mattresses, rice, beans, groundnut oil, salt, soap, and blankets. Other notable attendees included Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, Minister for Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, Minister of State for Agriculture Abdullahi Sabi, and Director-General of NEMA Zubaida Umar.

The move aims to provide relief and support to those affected, showcasing the government’s dedication to addressing the pressing issue of flooding and infrastructure deficiency in the country.