Veritas University, Abuja has donated relief materials worth millions of Naira to victims of the devastating flood that swept through Mokwa Community in Niger State, which claimed over two hundred lives and destroyed properties worth billions of Naira.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Ichoku, made the donation through the Niger State government as part of the institution’s Corporate Social Responsibility and its commitment to supporting vulnerable people in society.

Represented by the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Peter Bakwap, the Vice Chancellor expressed sympathy with the government and people of Niger State over the recent disaster and offered the university’s contribution to help ease the suffering of the victims.

He noted that Veritas University considers Niger State home, as many of its students hail from the state and have distinguished themselves as good ambassadors of the institution.

Rev. Fr. Bakwap added that among the flood victims was a Catholic priest from the Minna Diocese, underlining the deep impact of the tragedy. He also highlighted Veritas University’s emphasis on unity among its over 7,000 students from diverse religious and socio-cultural backgrounds, encouraging them to value shared humanity.

Although founded by the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, the university’s student population reflects the country’s religious diversity, which contributes to producing graduates who are well-suited for leadership in a pluralistic society.

While offering prayers for the souls of those who lost their lives, the Vice Chancellor’s representative also expressed gratitude to the Niger State government for the warm reception given to the Veritas delegation.

Government’s Response

Responding on behalf of the state, the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu Garba, thanked Veritas University for their support and solidarity during a difficult time.

He described the Mokwa flood as a national disaster, noting that many non-indigenes were among the victims, and appreciated Veritas University for being the first faith-based institution to extend condolences and donate relief materials.

The Deputy Governor assured that the donated items would be distributed promptly and fairly to the affected victims.

Items Donated

• Mattresses
• Water purifiers
• Treated mosquito nets and repellents
• Torchlights

Delegation Members

• Rev. Fr. Samaila Bahago – Head of Counselling
• Ben Agande – Head of Corporate Affairs and Communications
• Rev. Fr. Dauda Bahago – Head of JPDC, Minna Diocese