Nigerian banks have donated over 500 million naira and relief materials to victims of recent floods in Niger state. This is aimed at minimizing the impact of one of the worst flood disasters in the region, in recent years.
The donation was disclosed at the Niger state government Liaison office in Abuja, on Saturday. Oliver Alawuba, the group managing director of United Bank for Africa, presented the relief materials to the state government.
Speaking at the state office, Alawuba disclosed that the support is a result of empathy and accountability. He described the flood which happened in the Mokwa local government area of Niger state, as a tragic and unfortunate incident.
The director continued that the incident prompted the banking sector to intervene to contribute to humanitarian service. Alawuba also apologized for the delayed response, noting that it was not due to a lack of concern on their part.
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He expressed that the relief materials like beverages, among others, are aimed at providing immediate relief to the victim’s families. He added that these contributions will restore comfort and dignity to the families affected by the flood in the state.
Top executives including Zenith Bank GMD, Dame Umeoji, and other executive leaders were present at the presentation. In reaction, the governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, applauded the banks for their timely intervention.
The governor revealed that the flood was caused by silted waterways and poorly managed power infrastructure. He stated that the state has been experiencing severe flooding due to rainfall patterns and outdated infrastructure design.
He concluded by calling for support for other projects, such as food export schemes, which will boost the state’s productivity.
