Flood Relief Efforts in Borno State: Governor Zulum Unveils N20bn Cheque
In a bid to alleviate the suffering of victims of the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri, Borno State, Governor Babagana Zulum has unveiled a massive relief effort, worth N20 billion. The funds will be utilized to support the victims and provide essential items such as food and non-food items.
At a ceremony in Government House, Maiduguri, Governor Zulum presented cheques worth N10 billion each to the Chairman of the Borno Flood Disaster Relief Disbursement Committee and the Commissioner of Works for rehabilitation of public structures. The governor emphasized that the funds will be used 50-50 for the victims and food and non-food items.
"The basket fund contributions being received from some states, organisations and individuals across Nigerians would be utilised 50 per cent for victims and 50 per cent for food items," Governor Zulum said.
The governor also assured the public that the funds will not be diverted from their intended purpose, and that 50 per cent of the quantum of money in the basket fund will go directly to the victims, while the remaining 50 per cent will be used to procure food and non-food items for the victims.
In addition to supporting the victims, Governor Zulum also announced that farmers and business owners who lost their sources of livelihood due to the flood will receive support. The governor expressed gratitude to all those who donated and showed solidarity to the people of Borno during the trying moment, and lauded the effective role of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in generating support for the victims.
The governor also thanked the Federal Government for its series of support in the areas of food and non-food items, highlighting that the Federal Ministry of Agriculture has so far sent 100 trucks of rice and another 100 trucks of assorted grains.
Furthermore, Governor Zulum inaugurated a 28-Member Technical Committee to determine the cause of Alau Dam collapse that led to the flood disaster in Maiduguri and environs, which affected over one million people. The committee, chaired by Engr. Abba Garba, will conduct a plenary assessment to determine the immediate and remote cause of the incident, and recommend remedial action to contain the continuous flow of flood water from the dam. The committee has been mandated to complete its assignment within four weeks.
