Gov Buni launches disbursement of N2.9bn support to flood victims, vulnerable persons

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, on Wednesday, launched the disbursement of a N2.9 billion support scheme for flood victims, vulnerable persons, and small business owners in the state.

Governor Buni, while launching the initiative, stated that the Yobe State Government’s support program aims to empower citizens, rekindle hope, and strengthen resilience in response to the devastating impact of the 2024 flood disaster.

The state government is providing support to 25,500 flood victims and vulnerable persons with N50,000 each and 15,000 small business owners with N100,000 each.

The Governor recalled that the state experienced unprecedented flooding this year, which displaced 441 communities across 17 local government areas, affected over 20,000 households, and caused 34 deaths. Public structures, private homes, farmlands, and livestock were also destroyed.

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Governor Buni noted that the Damaturu-to-Bayamari Federal Highway was cut off at four locations: Kariyari, Jumbam, Koromari, and Bayamari. Similarly, the Damaturu-to-Buni Federal Road was washed away between Katarko and Gujba Town.

“Additionally, the Potiskum-to-Garin Alkali road was cut off at Tarajim, and the Gaidam-to-Bukarti road was washed away at Mozagun,” he said.

The Governor explained that the state government promptly repaired all the washed-away roads to reconnect affected communities and restore the movement of people, goods, and services. Similar interventions were also carried out on the Gadaka-to-Godowoli and Dogon Kuka-to-Daura roads.

He added that the Yobe State Government, with support from the Federal Government and development partners, had earlier distributed food, non-food items, and N100 million in emergency funds to victims in the most affected local government areas.

Governor Buni reiterated his administration’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Initiative, pledging continued support to women, people with disabilities, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups.

“The government will continue to provide free education, accessible and affordable healthcare, technological advancement, and economic incentives to empower the less privileged and drive economic growth,” he assured.

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