Maiduguri flood: Tinubu orders immediate establishment of disaster relief fund

Abdullateef Fowewe

President Bola Tinubu has announced the immediate establishment of a Disaster Relief Fund with an initial seed capital from the Federal Government to support in alleviating the impact of the flood that occurred in Maiduguri, Borno State.

Tinubu who paid a sympathy visit to the flood victims on Monday, unveiled this development in a statement shared on his social media handle late Monday night.

Tinubu expressed that his heart went out to all those affected by the recent floods and extended his profound sympathies to those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods courtesy of the devastating catastrophe.

While assuring the victims that the government is committed to alleviating their suffering, Tinubu said he understood the immense challenges individuals who are displaced are facing, stating that he admired their strength, courage, and determination amid the difficulties.

He wrote, “To the displaced persons, I understand the immense challenges you are facing, and I admire your strength, courage, and determination amid such hardship. Rest assured, your government is committed to alleviating your suffering. Your government will continue to offer support and relief as we come together to rebuild lives and restore hope as swiftly as possible.

“I express my heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, His Royal Majesty, The Shehu of Borno, and all traditional leaders, alongside our emergency response and humanitarian agencies, local partners, NGOs, CSOs, and Corporate Organisations for their exceptional leadership, unwavering support, and impactful intervention. Your dedication and contributions are truly invaluable and deeply appreciated. I have also directed government agencies charged with humanitarian responses to strengthen coordination and ongoing emergency

response.

“To this end, we have announced the immediate establishment of a Disaster Relief Fund with an initial seed capital from the Federal government to aid in alleviating the impact of this catastrophe. I urge the private sector to match or even exceed the Federal Government’s commitment to this fund, and I appeal for increased global collaboration from our international partners.

“To the good people of Borno, many of whom I met today during my visit, your indomitable spirit and resilience in the face of adversity deeply touches me. Please know that your government and the Nigerian people stand with you in solidarity.

Borno shall once again rise above this tragedy, and together, we will OVERCOME.”

The floods, which occurred on Monday, September 9, have submerged homes and displaced thousands caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam, have been described as the worst in over three decades, impacting around 70% of the city.