The Borno State government has disbursed a substantial sum of N18.08 billion to provide relief to over 100,000 families impacted by the devastating floods that recently ravaged the region. This financial aid, encompassing cash assistance, food supplies, and essential non-food items, was distributed to 101,330 households displaced by the disaster. The distribution effort was spearheaded by a dedicated flood relief distribution committee, which meticulously oversaw the allocation of resources to ensure they reached those most in need. The committee’s comprehensive final report, presented to Governor Babagana Zulum, detailed the extensive reach of their efforts and the significant impact of the flooding on the state.
The N18.08 billion disbursed represented a significant portion of the total N28.2 billion received by the committee. This substantial fund was amassed through contributions from various sources, including the federal and state governments, corporate organizations demonstrating their social responsibility, and generous private donors. Notably, the Borno State government made a substantial contribution of N10 billion, underscoring its commitment to supporting its affected citizens. Beyond monetary donations, the committee also received invaluable contributions of essential drugs, medical supplies, food, and other vital items, further bolstering the relief efforts.
The committee’s distribution strategy extended beyond direct aid to households. Recognizing the broader impact of the floods on the community, they allocated funds to support various sectors affected by the disaster. This included N987 million to assist 7,716 traders whose businesses were disrupted in the flooded markets, N313 million to support the recovery of 814 worship centers, and N213 million to aid 267 private schools in resuming their educational activities. Furthermore, N89.4 million was allocated to 1,788 youths who actively contributed to the flood relief efforts, acknowledging their valuable service, and N12.5 million was provided to 22 private clinics to help restore their healthcare services.
Beyond the immediate relief efforts, the committee also proposed a forward-looking plan for utilizing the remaining N4.45 billion. They recommended allocating these funds towards the rehabilitation of critical earth roads in the flood-affected areas, specifically highlighting the Gongulong and Old Maiduguri roads. These repairs are crucial for restoring accessibility and facilitating the recovery process in these communities. Additionally, the committee proposed distributing the remaining food and non-food items to host communities, recognizing the strain placed on these communities by the influx of displaced individuals. The floods caused widespread devastation, impacting not only homes and businesses but also public infrastructure and valuable farmlands, resulting in tragic loss of life and displacement of over one million people.
Governor Zulum, upon receiving the committee’s report, expressed his commitment to implementing their recommendations. He directed the immediate establishment of a permanent disaster response structure within the state emergency management agency. This proactive measure aims to enhance the state’s preparedness and response capabilities for future disasters. Furthermore, the governor instructed the Secretary to the State Government to develop a system for accurately recording street names and house numbers in all communities within the state capital and its surrounding areas. This initiative aims to improve navigation, aid in service delivery, and facilitate efficient emergency response in the future.
The governor also emphasized the urgent need to rebuild the road networks devastated by the floods in various communities. He instructed the Ministry of Works to prioritize these reconstruction efforts to restore vital transportation links and support the recovery process. Governor Zulum commended the relief distribution committee for their diligent work and expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for its significant support in aiding the victims of the Maiduguri flood disaster. He acknowledged the substantial contribution from the federal government, recognizing their partnership in addressing this significant challenge. The Governor’s expressions of gratitude underscored the collaborative nature of the relief effort and the importance of shared responsibility in responding to such large-scale disasters.
