Flood-Hit Maiduguri Receives N4.4 Billion in Donations, Government Commits to Relief Efforts

In the aftermath of the devastating September 10 flood in Maiduguri, the Borno Government has announced that only N4.4 billion of the N13.1 billion donations for victims has been received so far. The Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, disclosed this update at the Borno State Government Flood Disaster Situation Room, emphasizing that the available funds have been handed over to the newly inaugurated Disaster Relief Disbursement Committee, comprising people of integrity, for disbursement to the victims.

The committee is an all-encompassing body comprising members from federal and state agencies, technocrats, traditional and religious leaders, as well as representatives from the military, police, NSCDC, DSS, EFCC, and ICPC. According to Prof. Tar, the governor launched cash support for the first batch of households, enabling the commencement of rebuilding their homes. Victims who received food items and cash support, intended to last them for two weeks, can expect another package of support soon.

In a surprising turn of events, many victims who received cash and food in camps have returned home, contradicting claims that they were forced to leave. The commissioner emphasized that nobody was forced to leave the camp or compelled to stay, as the flood water has receded in most areas of the city. The government plans to merge some camps, with a goal of moving those occupying schools to other depopulated camps to enable students to resume school.

In addition, the government is working to register and support victims who refused to go to camps, opting instead to sleep on the streets, filling stations, or business premises. These individuals will be encouraged to move to designated camps, such as Gubio camp for those on Baga Road, Muna camp for those on Custom area, and Dalori camp for those on Bama Road.

The government appeals for patience and support as it and its partners continue to work towards alleviating the suffering of the flood victims. Despite the challenges, organisations, groups, and individuals have continued to donate funds to the State Government, supporting the recovery efforts of the one million victims affected by the September 10 flood.