The Presidential Committee on Flood Relief and Rehabilitation (PCFRR), in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has donated relief materials worth ₦1 billion to the Borno State government for distribution to victims of the recent flooding caused by the collapse of Alau Dam in Maiduguri.
The handover ceremony, held in Maiduguri on Wednesday, saw the Director-General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, represented by the Director of Disaster Reduction, Adamu Abdullahi Usur, reiterate the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting communities affected by disasters under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Relief Items to Aid Flood Victims
The donated items include:
- 4,000 bags of beans (25kg each)
- 5,000 cartons of noodles
- 500 kegs of vegetable oil
- 1,000 cartons of tomato paste
- 3,000 foam mattresses (6×3 size)
- 3,000 pieces of guinea brocade
- 3,000 wax prints
- 3,000 mosquito nets
- 1,500 cartons of diapers and sanitary pads
These items, among other necessities, aim to alleviate the suffering of those displaced by the flood and assist in rebuilding affected communities.
Federal and State Collaboration
Speaking during the event, NEMA’s representative highlighted the significance of the intervention, stating, “The relief materials donated by PCFRR are a testament to the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding and rehabilitating flood-affected communities. While these interventions are crucial, sustained efforts are needed from all stakeholders, including development partners and non-governmental organizations, to restore hope and recovery.”
Deputy Governor of Borno State, Umaru Kadakur, expressed gratitude to the PCFRR, co-chaired by Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, for their swift intervention. He disclosed that the committee allocated ₦1 billion for relief materials to support flood victims after NEMA’s call for assistance.
“This intervention reaffirms our collective commitment to alleviating the suffering of Nigerians impacted by disasters. A specialized committee has been constituted to oversee the relief and recovery process to ensure every affected individual and community benefits,” Kadakur stated.
Presidential Committee’s Assurance
Representing the PCFRR co-chairmen, Hajiya Hajara Adam-Goni emphasized the urgency of the intervention and assured a fair and efficient distribution process. “The allocation of funds followed NEMA’s recommendation to prioritize Borno State due to the severity of the disaster. These relief items will not only provide immediate support but also serve as a foundation for rebuilding lives and livelihoods,” she explained.
The PCFRR reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Borno State government to address both immediate needs and long-term recovery for affected communities.
This intervention comes as a beacon of hope for thousands of residents displaced by the devastating September 2024 floods, with stakeholders pledging sustained efforts to support recovery and build resilience against future disasters.
