Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno has presented cheques of N20b in support of victims of Maiduguri flood and rehabilitation of affected public structures.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a cheque of N10b was presented to the Chairman of Borno Flood Disaster Relief Disbursement Committee, while another cheque of N10b was given to the Commissioner of Works for rehabilitation of public structures.
Presenting the cheques at a ceremony in Government House, Maiduguri on Saturday, Zulum said money realised from people would be used 50-50 for the victims and food and non food items.
“The basket fund contributions being received from some states, organisations and individuals across Nigerians would be utilised 50 per cent for victims and 50 per cent for food items.
“I want to assure the general public that under no circumstances the basket fund shall be diverted from the intended purpose.
“I want 50 per cent of the quantum of money in the basket fund to go directly to victims and the remaining 50 per cent for the procurement of food and non food items for the victims,” Zulum said.
Zulum said in view of the fact that the flood had also affected farmlands and businesses, farmers and business owners who lost their sources of livelihood would also be supported.
The governor, who expressed gratitude to all those who donated and those who showed solidarity to the people of Borno at the trying moment, also lauded the effective role of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima in generating support for the victims.
“I want to thank the Federal Government for its series of support in the areas of food and non food items.
“The Federal Ministry of Agriculture has so far sent 100 trucks of rice and another 100 trucks of assorted grains,” Zulum said.
NAN reports that the governor also inaugurated a 28-Member Technical Committee to determine the cause of Alau Dam collapse that led to the Sept. 10 flood disaster in Maiduguri and environs, which affected more than one million people.
The committee which has Engr. Abba Garba as Chairman is to conduct plenary assessment to determine the immediate and remote cause of the incident.
The committee is to determine the extent of damage to the dam, its structural integrity and recommend remedial action to contain the continuous flow of flood water from the dam.
Zulum said the committee would collaborate and facilitate the job of the already established committee by the federal government considering the urgency of the situation in Borno.
The committee has been mandated to complete its assignment within four weeks.
