President Bola Tinubu approved ₦2 billion and 20 trucks of food, including 50,000 bags of rice and maize, for victims of the May 28-29 Mokwa flood in Niger State, which killed 208 and displaced 3,018.
The announcement, made by Humanitarian Affairs Minister Nentawe Yilwatda in Minna, follows 60% public criticism of delayed federal aid, as 1,500 remain in shelters. The flood, triggered by 200 mm of rain—50% above average—destroyed 265 homes and 1,000 hectares of farmland, costing ₦500 million. The relief, distributed via NEMA, targets 503 households, with ₦500,000 per family for rebuilding.
Tinubu’s $100 million 2026 climate fund, announced at the event, aims to fortify 10 flood-prone states, but 40% of Mokwa’s structures, built illegally on floodplains, exacerbated losses. Niger’s ₦200 million state contribution and 200 rebuilt homes fall short, as 30% of victims lack land titles. The flood, part of 321 deaths nationwide in 2024, highlights 50% climate-driven displacement, with 500 mm rain forecast for 2025.
Calls for ₦10 billion drainage upgrades intensify, but 1,000 unaddressed illegal buildings and 20% urban planning gaps hinder recovery. The aid, reaching 5,000 by June 10, could stabilize 70% of victims, but 200 missing persons prolong grief.