Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has commenced the distribution of Federal Government palliatives to residents affected by flooding that ravaged some parts of the state in recent months.
The governor on Sunday and Monday visited areas such as Gamboru Ngala to assess the widespread damage caused by devastating floods.
The visit, according to a Monday statement issued by Borno Community Watch, was to deliver critical relief materials to aid the affected residents.
The floods, which cut off the affected community from the rest of the region for four months, caused significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and farmlands.
The Governor expressed his deep sympathy to the affected while acknowledging the severe challenges they have faced.
According to the statement, adding to residents’ plights was the further destruction of farmlands by elephants, leaving many families struggling to sustain their livelihoods.
On the second day, Governor Zulum oversaw the distribution of 100 packs of assorted grains, including maize, millet, and sorghum, provided by the Federal Government.
These relief materials were aimed at addressing the immediate food shortages in Gamboru Ngala.
The governor commended the FG, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, for the intervention and support.
He also expressed gratitude to agencies such as the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and the National Emergency Management Agency for timely assistance.
The Governor said, “This immediate humanitarian aid is essential for now, but it is not a sustainable solution.
“We must focus on empowering our people to regain their independence and rebuild their livelihoods. That is why we are prioritising long-term solutions like irrigation farming to ensure year-round agricultural activities.”
To address the long-term needs of flood-affected communities, the state government has begun implementing irrigation projects in nearby areas, such as Ngala. The initiative is aimed at restoring food security and strengthening economic resilience, enabling residents to recover from the devastating effects of the floods.
Zulum assured the people of Gambaoru Ngala that his administration remains committed to their recovery and well-being.
He emphasised that through collaborative efforts between the state and federal governments, as well as support from key agencies, the community would overcome its challenges and rebuild stronger than before.