Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has confirmed the receipt of ₦4.4 billion in donations as part of relief funds following the devastating flooding that hit the state on 10 September, displacing thousands and causing extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and agricultural lands, Okay.ng reports.
The governor made the announcement on Monday during the inauguration of the disbursement committee for the relief packages at the council chamber of the Government House in Maiduguri.
“So far, we acknowledge a pledge of ₦13,195,500,000. However, as of yesterday (Sunday), we have received a total of ₦4,441,494,902.81. All allocations to this account will be made public in due course,” Zulum said, emphasizing the importance of transparency in managing the relief funds.
Zulum urged the committee to maintain diligence and integrity in their operations, stating, “We must be accountable for every resource entrusted to us. Every naira allocated for relief must be used effectively and reach those who are suffering.”
He also assured that all allowances for committee members would be covered by the state government, ensuring that the relief funds would be solely dedicated to assisting flood victims.
In addition to financial support for the affected families, Zulum reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rehabilitating public facilities such as hospitals, roads, and bridges damaged by the floods.
The newly appointed committee members include representatives from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services (DSS), underscoring the emphasis on transparency and accountability in the disbursement of the relief funds.