BY MAIMUNA MUHAMMAD BULAMA, OCTOBER 5, 2024 | 7:56PM
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum has announced the allocation of N10 billion for direct assistance to victims of the devastating September 10, flood which affected parts of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and surrounding local government areas.
The fund is part of a larger N20 billion package earmarked for the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure and support for the victims of the disaster.
The governor made the announcement on Saturday at the Council Chamber of the Government House, Maiduguri, during the inauguration of a committee to investigate the causes of the Alau Dam collapse that led to the flooding.
He emphasized that N10 billion will be directly disbursed to flood victims to help them rebuild their lives, while the remaining N10 billion will go towards repairs and long-term infrastructural recovery efforts.
'Fifty percent of the N20 billion fund will be allocated directly to provide assistance to the flood victims, ensuring they receive the support needed to pick up the pieces of their lives,' Gov. Zulum stated while highlighting the state government’s commitment to those impacted by the disaster.
The disbursement of the N10 billion will be managed by a special committee, which will include representatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and other security agencies, to ensure transparency and accountability.
The governor expressed gratitude to the federal government for its support during the disaster, particularly the food aid provided by the federal ministry of agriculture.
'Let me use this opportunity to commend the federal government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for all the support, from the quantum of food donated by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture,' he said.
He also extended his appreciation to individuals, state governments, corporate bodies, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that stepped in to assist Borno during its time of need.
'I want to also commend everyone who has contributed to our basket fund,' he added.
In addition to the relief efforts for victims, the governor tasked the newly inaugurated 28 member committee, chaired by Engr. Abba Garba, with investigating the causes of the Alau Dam collapse.
The dam, despite the floodwaters receding, continues to pose a threat to communities relying on its resources for domestic use and dry season farming.
The committee has been given four weeks to submit its findings and recommendations for remedial actions.
'The committee shall have four (4) weeks from the date of inauguration to submit its report to the Executive Governor of Borno State,' he said.
In his response, chairman of the committee expressed gratitude to Gov. Zulum for finding them worthy of serving the state.
'Each of us here is conscious of the gravity of the problem, and I would like to thank you for finding us worthy to serve on this very important committee. I assure you that we are going to look into the terms of reference, deliberate on it, and come up with our recommendations within the stipulated time.' the chairman said.