First Lady donates ₦1bn, relief materials to Niger State disaster victims

By Kunle Sanni –

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Tuesday visited Niger State to commiserate with victims of recent disasters, including flooding, a boat accident, fire incidents, and banditry attacks.

She announced a ₦1 billion donation from the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), alongside relief materials to support displaced families.

Addressing Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and residents during her visit, the First Lady said, “The strength of a nation lies in its compassion,” urging Nigerians to be their brother’s keeper in times of crisis.

The market town of Mokwa was among the worst-hit areas, with over 159 lives lost, more than 400 homes destroyed, and at least 3,000 people displaced by flooding. Describing the tragedy as “most unfortunate,” she said her visit was to offer both comfort and concrete support.

“In support of the rebuilding efforts of the Niger State Government, the Governing Council of the Renewed Hope Initiative is donating ₦1 billion, along with clothes, shoes, and 2,000 bags of 50kg rice,” she announced, adding that the funds would be used for housing support and other essentials to help victims recover.

“As a mother, I share your pain and grief over this irreplaceable loss and devastation. But with compassion and unity, we can heal,” she said.

Governor Bago expressed gratitude for the gesture, commending the First Lady for bringing hope to distressed communities. He assured that the donation would be used transparently for the intended beneficiaries.

During the visit, Senator Tinubu also launched the RHI/Tony Elumelu Foundation Women Empowerment Programme, aimed at supporting small-scale women entrepreneurs in the state.