In the wake of a devastating petrol tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Niger State, the National Emergency Management Agency has provided relief items, including food, non-food supplies, and medical materials, to support injured victims and affected families.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Saturday morning along Dikko-Maje Road, claimed 98 lives, injured 69 people, and destroyed 20 shops. Reports indicate that the explosion was triggered when a tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit spilled its contents during a fuel transfer operation.
The spilled fuel reportedly came into contact with a generator powering the transfer, causing the fire.
NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, visited the affected community to oversee the distribution of relief items.
Speaking at the event, she emphasized the agency’s commitment to alleviating the plight of those impacted by the disaster.
“This intervention is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive and the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the victims and aiding the recovery process,” Mrs. Umar said.
“Following an initial assessment by NEMA, the Niger State Emergency Management Agency, and other first responders, we are here to provide immediate relief and assistance to the affected families.”
She expressed her condolences to the community and assured them that further measures would be implemented to aid their recovery. Mrs. Umar also urged communities to adopt disaster preparedness strategies to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“I want to commend the swift and coordinated efforts of first responders, including firefighters, road safety personnel, security operatives, medical teams, and community members, who worked tirelessly to save lives and mitigate the impact of this tragedy,” she added.
The event was attended by notable figures, including the Deputy Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Afiniki Daudu, who lauded the Federal Government for its timely response.
“We are grateful for the immediate relief provided by NEMA. This gesture shows the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens,” Daudu remarked.
Also present were the Chairman of Gurara Local Government Area, Alhaji Abdulhalim Abubakar; the Director General of Niger State SEMA, Abdullahi Arah; and other community leaders, who collectively pledged to work towards rebuilding the community and supporting affected families.
