Borno disburses ₦18bn to 101,330 flood victims
Over 101,330 households impacted by the devastating flood of September 10, 2024, in Maiduguri and surrounding areas have received food, non-food items, and cash relief totalling ₦18.08 billion.
The disclosure was made by Mr. Baba-Bukar Gujibawu, Chairman of the Relief Disbursement Committee while presenting the committee’s report to Governor Babagana Zulum on Monday in Maiduguri.
Gujibawu revealed that the disaster affected over one million people, displacing thousands of households, destroying infrastructure and farmlands, and causing a tragic loss of lives. He noted that the committee received ₦18.2 billion in donations through a basket fund supported by the federal and state governments, corporate organisations, and private individuals.
“The committee allocated ₦987 million to assist 7,716 traders in affected markets; ₦313 million to 814 worship centres; ₦213 million to 267 private schools; ₦89.4 million to 1,788 youths who contributed during the flood, and ₦12.5 million to 22 private clinics,” he stated.
In addition, Gujibawu noted that the committee received billions worth of food, medical supplies, and other essential items.
He recommended that the remaining ₦4.45 billion in the fund be used to rehabilitate damaged roads in Gongulong and Old Maiduguri, with remaining food and non-food items distributed to host communities.
Expressing gratitude for the governor’s support, Gujibawu said, “Let me commend the members of this important committee for your meticulous work. Insha’Allah, posterity will judge you positively.”
In response, Governor Zulum pledged to implement the committee’s recommendations and directed the immediate establishment of a permanent disaster response unit under the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
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He also ordered the reconstruction of flood-damaged roads and called for proper documentation of street names and house numbers across Maiduguri and its environs.
Zulum praised the Federal Government and President Bola Tinubu, for their unwavering support during the disaster, while commending the committee for its diligence.
The flood, one of the worst in the region’s history, left a trail of destruction but also showcased collaborative efforts to bring relief to affected communities.
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