The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the government and people of Niger State following a devastating flood that ravaged Mokwa Local Government Area, claiming lives and causing extensive property damage. The forum’s chairman, Governor AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, conveyed the collective condolences of the governors in a statement, acknowledging the immense loss suffered by the community. The flood serves as a stark reminder of the escalating realities of climate change and its devastating consequences, prompting a renewed commitment from the governors to address this global challenge.
The catastrophic flood in Mokwa has left a trail of destruction, claiming the lives of at least 21 individuals and causing millions of Naira worth of property damage. The NGF, deeply moved by the scale of the disaster, expressed shock and offered sincere commiserations to the affected families. The forum recognized the immediate response efforts of the Niger State government and its coordination with emergency responders to provide support and relief to the victims. Governor AbdulRazaq emphasized the shared grief and solidarity of the governors, highlighting the profound impact of the flood on the community.
The NGF’s statement draws attention to the critical link between the Mokwa flood and the broader issue of climate change. The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including floods, underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate the impacts of a changing climate. The governors pledged their commitment to work collaboratively with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation measures. This commitment reflects a growing awareness of the need for proactive measures to protect communities from the escalating risks associated with climate change.
The governors further underscored the importance of strengthening relief institutions and supporting communities in coping with the challenges posed by climate change. They recognized the need for a multifaceted approach that encompasses both immediate relief efforts and long-term strategies to build resilience against future disasters. This includes investing in early warning systems, strengthening infrastructure, and promoting sustainable land management practices to reduce vulnerability to extreme weather events. The NGF’s call for cooperation between government agencies and citizens reflects a shared responsibility in addressing the multifaceted aspects of climate change adaptation and mitigation.
The NGF emphasized the importance of communal support and empathy for the victims of the Mokwa flood. Governor AbdulRazaq urged citizens to rally behind the government’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and cooperate with agencies providing assistance to those in need. This call for solidarity underscores the importance of community-based responses in times of crisis and emphasizes the collective responsibility to support those affected by disasters. The NGF’s message highlights the crucial role of community engagement in building resilient communities and fostering a sense of shared responsibility in addressing climate change.
The Mokwa flood stands as a tragic example of the devastating consequences of climate change, renewing calls for concerted action to address this global challenge. The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, deeply saddened by the loss of life and property, has expressed solidarity with the affected community and pledged its commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness and mitigation measures. The governors’ call for collective action underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to protect communities from the escalating risks associated with climate change, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, preparedness, and resilience-building efforts. The tragedy in Mokwa serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of climate change and its profound impact on human lives and livelihoods, emphasizing the need for urgent action at all levels of government and society.
