One person has so far been confirmed dead following partial collapse of rice mill at NIA-AGRI factory in Kebbi State, North-West Nigeria.
The structural failure occurred at approximately 2am in the early hours of Tuesday. Since then, a combined team of the State Fire Service and other government emergency response workers have been engaged in continuous efforts to locate and rescue trapped workers.
The cause of the collapse is not yet known.
Meanwhile, Kebbi State Government delegation led by the Deputy Governor Umar Tafida has expressed its deep sympathy to the management and staff of NIA-AGRI following the partial collapse of a section of its rice mill.
The Project Engineer of the facility said that the early morning incident has resulted in at least one fatality. It was further reported that five other individuals remained trapped under the rubble as of the time of the visit, with intense rescue operations ongoing.
Speaking during the on-the-spot assessment visit to the facility, Deputy Governor Tafida who was with the Secretary to the State Government, conveyed the state government’s profound condolences.
“We are here first to commiserate with the management of NIA-AGRI and, more importantly, to show solidarity and ensure all possible resources are deployed for this rescue mission,” he stated. “Our primary concern at this moment is the safety and recovery of those still trapped. We have directed all relevant agencies to provide maximum support.
The Kebbi State Government has pledged to continue supporting the rescue operation until all trapped victims are rescued to safety.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
