Niger Governor Calls for Robust Private-Public Partnership to Mitigate Flood Disasters

Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has issued a strong appeal for closer collaboration between the private and public sectors to effectively address the escalating threat of flood disasters and climate change impacts across the state. The Governor made this call during a recent visit by the Body of Banks’ Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) to the Niger State liaison office in Abuja.

The meeting, held on Friday, June 27, 2025, was primarily a condolence visit by the banking executives to commiserate with the state over the devastating Mokwa flood disaster that occurred in late May, claiming over 150 lives and displacing hundreds of families.

Governor Bago emphasized that while immediate relief efforts are crucial, long-term solutions require deliberate investment in water harvesting infrastructure. He articulated a vision where excess water, particularly during heavy rainy seasons, could be harvested and utilized for year-round food production, thereby reducing reliance on rainfall and bolstering food security.

“The unfortunate incidence of flood disasters can be mitigated if water harvesting infrastructure is deliberately developed,” Governor Bago stated. He highlighted significant opportunities for banks to engage in such initiatives, recognizing their pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic growth. The Governor expressed gratitude for the banks’ visit and their previous donations of relief materials to the flood victims.

Dr. Oliver Alawuba, Group Managing Director of United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Chairman of the Body of Banks’ CEOs, attributed the recent disaster to the effects of climate change, describing the flood’s impact as “very devastating.” He reaffirmed the banking sector’s commitment to partnering with the state government as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and applauded the state government’s swift response to the calamity.

The call for public-private collaboration comes as Niger State, like many other parts of Nigeria, faces increasing vulnerability to climate-induced disasters. The Mokwa flood, which saw over 200 fatalities according to some reports, underscores the urgent need for proactive and comprehensive flood mitigation strategies beyond emergency responses. The Governor’s administration hopes that strong partnerships will lead to sustainable infrastructure development and improved disaster preparedness, safeguarding lives and livelihoods in the future.