A consortium of Nigerian bank chief executives has stepped forward with a significant humanitarian gesture to support victims of the devastating floods in Niger State.
On Saturday, in Abuja, the Executive Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, received a consignment of relief materials from the Body of Bank CEOs, led by its Chairman and Group Managing Director/CEO of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Mr Oliver Alawuba.
The donation, which is aimed at alleviating the suffering of those affected in Mokwa Local Government Area, included bags of rice, beverages, vegetable oil, and mattresses, with a total value running into millions of naira.
The floods, which displaced thousands of residents and destroyed homes and livelihoods, prompted the banking community to unite in a show of empathy and solidarity with affected communities.
Speaking during the presentation, Alawuba conveyed the banking industry’s heartfelt sympathy and reiterated its commitment to sustainable assistance, stressing that the initiative reflects the sector’s broader responsibility to humanitarian causes and national development.
“Today, we stand with the people of Niger State in their time of need. We want you to know that we feel your pain and we give you our firm resolve to assist in rebuilding lives. This donation is just the beginning; we pledge continued collaboration with the Niger State Government to ensure long-term recovery and resilience,” he said.
Other high-ranking officials at the event included the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji; the Registrar and Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Mr Akin Morakinyo; the Managing Director/CEO of Keystone Bank Limited, Mr Hassan Imam; and the Managing Director of TAJBank, Mr Hamid Joda.
Also present were the Secretary to the Government of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, senior government officials, banking executives, and media representatives, underscoring a deepening partnership between the private sector and government in crisis response.
Receiving the items on behalf of the state, Governor Bago lauded the banking industry for what he described as a timely and compassionate intervention.
“This gesture reinforces the critical role of private-sector partnerships in disaster response,” the governor said. “We are grateful for this support and look forward to deeper collaboration in safeguarding our communities against future challenges. On behalf of the good people of Niger State, particularly the affected families in Mokwa, I extend our sincerest thanks.”
Governor Bago further acknowledged the broader significance of the donation, stating that it goes beyond material aid.
“The recent floods in the state brought immense hardship to the people, displacing families, destroying livelihoods, and disrupting communities. The banking sector, under the leadership of Alawuba and his esteemed colleagues, has demonstrated that beyond financial stewardship, they are true partners in national development and humanitarian service.
“This donation is not just about the physical items; it is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering support of Nigeria’s financial institutions in times of need. It reassures our people that they are not forgotten,” he added.
