Flooding: Bauchi Governor approves funds for relief materials, renovations over deaths, N22bn losses

*Hajara Wanka, Bauchi State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, discloses the recent flood disaster across the state, in Northern Nigeria, has caused several deaths, and material losses exceeding N22billion

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

Following the recent devastating floods that swept through the Northern state, the Bauchi State Government of Nigeria has confirmed that this year’s flooding has resulted in 24 deaths, and severely impacted 16 local government areas within the state.

ConsumerConnect reports the State Government is working with the Federal Government to assess the damage and find lasting solutions.

Hajara Wanka, Bauchi State Honourable Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, after an extraordinary State Executive Council meeting, in Bauchi, the state capital, disclosed this development to reporters at a media briefing, and noted that the flood disaster had caused several deaths, and losses exceeding N22billion.

Governor Mohammed (middle) during a recent visit to the flooeded and damaged Kano-Maiduguri Expressway

Wanka also stated: “The governor (Bala Mohammed) has also approved additional funding for the renovation of culverts and for the procurement of essential supplies.”

The Commissioner said that a high-powered committee had been established by the state governor to assess the damage, and monitor the situation, as rainfall persists.

She as well detailed that 163 people have been severely injured, and 122,330 households have been displaced.

According to the Commissioner, the recent floods cut off 12 major roads, primarily in the northern parts of the state.

Besides, 60 culverts have been washed away, 52,035 houses have been destroyed, and 178 electric poles have collapsed.

The floods have also resulted in the loss of 11,183 livestock.

Wanka further said: “We are collaborating with the ministries of health and education to evaluate the damage to schools and other health facilities.”

The Commissioner equally noted that the situation is overwhelming, as she highlighted the state government’s efforts at providing relief materials, including cash, food, and non-food items.

“The state is working with the federal government to assess the damage and find lasting solutions.

“The governor has also approved additional funding for the renovation of culverts and for the procurement of essential supplies,” stated the for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management.