Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has issued an urgent appeal to residents living along riverbanks and farmers operating near water bodies to relocate to safer grounds without delay, citing warnings from weather experts about imminent floods this year.
The governor made this appeal through his Deputy, Yakubu Garba, after the Eid El Kabir prayer at the Minna Central Eid prayer ground. The call comes in the wake of a recent flood disaster that devastated parts of Mokwa Local Government Area in the state.
Preventive Measures Against Flooding
"This advice has become necessary because there is the possibility that another flood disaster might occur due to heavy downpour. Prevention is always better than cure," Deputy Governor Garba warned on behalf of Governor Bago.
The governor noted that while pilgrims for the 2025 Hajj to Mecca from the state are offering prayers for Niger State and Nigeria, residents should reciprocate by praying for the pilgrims to have a successful hajj experience.
Eid Celebrations and Community Support
Former Niger State Governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, who was also present at the event, urged Muslim faithful to be thankful to Allah for the symbolic sacrifice of rams instead of firstborn children, referencing the story of Prophet Ismail.
"This is no doubt a great honour which must be honored through positive acts," Dr. Aliyu stated. He called on people to unite, pray fervently, forgive one another, and show love and care to the less privileged in society.
Sheikh Jibril Isa Imam, the Chief Imam of the Minna Central Mosque, in his sermon, emphasized the importance of wealthy individuals assisting the less privileged as commanded by Allah.
Despite the flood concerns, Eid-el-Kabir celebrations have been reported as peaceful and orderly throughout Niger State.
The government's proactive approach to potential flooding comes as part of broader disaster management efforts in the region, which has historically been vulnerable to seasonal flooding.
Follow BenriNews on social media for more updates:
