President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the federal ministry of works to ensure the immediate repair of the Mokwa bridge linking the Northern and Southern part of the country, which failed as a result of the recent flood that washed away some roads and bridges in Mokwa town.
The Minister of state for works, Barr. Bello Mohammed Goronyo disclosed this when he led a delegation of the ministry on a condolence and assessment visit to Mokwa local government area of Niger state.
While at the palace of the district head (Ndalile) of Mokwa, the minister noted the importance of Mokwa road as it links the Northern and Southern parts of the country.
“We are here for two reasons. We are here to commiserate with the government and people of Niger State over this very sad incidence that led to loss of lives and properties, and to also carry out assessment of the failed bridge,” the minister said.
He further stated that the president had given them a matching order to ensure the failed bridge is fixed, and that a construction company that is closer to the area has been engaged to put up temporary measures in place to make it motorable before the reconstruction of the bridge will commence.
The Minister and his entourage were also at the IDP camp, to sympathise with the victims of the flood and called for support of all and sundry.
“These people need help at this moment. They need shelter, they need food, and they need medical attention and all the help they can get. The government is doing its part, but I want to call on well-meaning Nigerians to come to their aide,” he said.
He commended the efforts of the state government and all those who have contributed in cushioning the effect since the occurrence of the incidence.
Responding, the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, represented by his Deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, appreciated the concerns and show of love from the federal government since the incident occurred, saying the State cannot thank the federal government enough.
He observed that the incident might be a natural occurrence, man made factor like building on waterways contributed, pointing out that the state and local governments, as well as the traditional leaders would start enforcing the building plan laws.
Earlier at his palace, the District head (Ndalile) of Mokwa, Alhaji Mohammed Aliyu Shaba who said they have accepted the disaster in good fate, appreciated the visit and appealed for more support and prayers for the victims.
Thereafter, the Minister, in company of the Governor and some officials of the Ministry, inspected some damaged bridges, culverts and buildings.
