The Niger State Government has confirmed the recovery of two additional bodies from the devastating flood that struck parts of the state last Wednesday, bringing the official death toll to 153.
The latest bodies were recovered on Sunday morning, even as search and rescue efforts remain ongoing across affected areas. The National Emergency Response mechanism, ordered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been fully activated and is supporting local response efforts.
In a statement issued in Minna on Sunday, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) said the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), in collaboration with local authorities and volunteers, is working round-the-clock to provide relief and rescue services.
“While we share in the pain of every family that has been affected, we urge members of the public to remain calm and sensitive in their communications, particularly on social media and other platforms,” the statement said.
It warned against the spread of unverified or sensational information, stating that such actions only worsen the collective grief and could hamper coordinated relief efforts.
“This is a time of mourning for us as a state. We call on all Nigerlites to prioritize unity, compassion, and factual reporting during this difficult period,” the SSG added.
The government further urged all citizens to cooperate with relevant authorities and trust the ongoing response efforts being led by NSEMA and federal agencies.
While extending condolences to the bereaved families, the government prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and wished those affected the strength to bear the tragic loss.
Rescue operations and damage assessments are expected to continue in the coming days, with humanitarian agencies scaling up support to displaced persons.