In the wake of the devastating petrol tanker explosion at Dikko Junction in Niger State, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has mobilized resources to assist those affected.
The agency announced on Tuesday that it has distributed essential food and medical supplies to support the treatment of injured victims and provide relief to grieving families.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday morning along the Dikko-Maje Road, where a tanker carrying Premium Motor Spirit exploded.
Reports indicate that the disaster was precipitated by an attempt to transfer fuel from a damaged tanker, which led to a spill that ignited upon contact with a generator. This catastrophic event resulted in the loss of 98 lives and left 69 individuals injured, in addition to damaging 20 local shops.
NEMA's Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, visited the affected community to oversee the distribution of relief materials. She emphasized that this intervention aligns with directives from President Bola Tinubu and reflects the Federal Government's commitment to supporting communities in crisis.
During her visit, she stated, “Based on the report of the initial rapid assessment carried out by officials of NEMA, NSEMA, and other first responders, we are here to provide immediate assistance with food, non-food items, and medicaments to the affected families.”
Mrs. Umar extended her condolences to the community and assured them that NEMA would coordinate comprehensive recovery efforts. She underscored the importance of disaster preparedness and urged local communities to take proactive measures to protect lives and property.
The response from first responders, including NEMA personnel, firefighters, and local security forces, was commended for their swift action in mitigating further harm and assisting victims.
The Deputy Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Afiniki Daudu, along with other local leaders, expressed gratitude for NEMA's prompt response in delivering necessary aid.
