• President Tinubu approves 16.7 billion naira ($10.8 million) for Mokwa bridge.

• The bridge in Niger State collapsed after deadly floods in May.

• Floods killed over 200 people, displaced 3,000, and devastated farmland.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the disbursement of 16.7 billion naira (around $10.8 million) to rebuild the Mokwa bridge in Niger State. The facility was destroyed by heavy floods in May.

According to announcement made on August 16 by Information Minister Mohammed Idris, the decision shows the federal government’s commitment to addressing urgent infrastructure needs. The new bridge will have ten spans.

As a reminder, on May 29, torrential rains caused a partial dam collapse in Mokwa, killing more than 200 people and displacing about 3,000 residents. Roads and bridges were damaged, hampering rescue efforts and disrupting local economic activity. Mokwa is a key agricultural hub, especially for rice, beans, and onions. Floods wiped out several hectares of crops, worsening food insecurity in an already vulnerable region.

Nigeria continues to face major structural challenges, including food insecurity and recurring floods. Damage to transport and road infrastructure risks further disrupting supply chains and driving up prices of food and essential goods.

In May, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved $1.14 billion for nationwide infrastructure projects, including the rehabilitation of roads, dams, and irrigation systems.