Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the federal government’s unwavering commitment to providing continued support to victims of flooding and insecurity across Nigeria. During an assessment visit to an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Gwada, Niger State, on Friday, Shettima promised additional relief for severely affected states.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Vice President emphasized the government’s resolve to address the food crises and insecurity challenges faced by the region. “We are here at the instance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give the commitment of the federal government to supporting the people of Niger State in addressing the food challenges caused by the flood and the insecurity that has been bedevilling this part of the country,” Shettima stated.
He highlighted the administration’s dedication to improving the welfare of all Nigerians, regardless of political considerations, stressing that the President is “poised to assist all states of the federation toward addressing these challenges.”
Shettima recalled that the federal government had already disbursed ₦3 billion to each state to tackle the impacts of flooding. However, he noted that this is just the beginning, particularly for states like Borno, Niger, Sokoto, Bayelsa, and Jigawa, which have been severely affected.
“We will do our assessment and be very scientific in our approach. All states that deserve to be supported will be fully supported because governance is about the people,” he said.
In his address, Shettima also underscored President Tinubu’s significant efforts in national infrastructure development, citing ongoing projects such as the East-West Road and the Sokoto-Badagry Road.
Regarding the displaced persons in the IDP camps, Shettima assured them that returning to their communities was a priority. He revealed that the federal government, in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the state government, was working on additional interventions for the displaced persons.
Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State, who accompanied the Vice President, informed the IDPs that Shettima had come to offer condolences and deliver essential intervention items. He noted that the Gwada camp is one of 14 camps across the state, housing victims displaced by floods and insecurity.
The federal government’s delegation also included the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, and Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, among others.
The Emir of Minna, Dr. Umaru Faruq Bahago, and other local leaders were also present to show support for the displaced persons.
Vice President Shettima concluded by reiterating that the federal government’s focus is on governance and improving the quality of life for all Nigerians, emphasizing, “It’s not about politics; it’s about governance and improving the living conditions of our people.”