Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has announced the formation of a committee tasked with managing the distribution of relief funds and essential items for victims affected by the recent devastating floods in the state. This initiative aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement process.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijjani, it was confirmed that the committee will include representatives from key agencies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and the Department of State Services (DSS).
The committee will be chaired by the Special Adviser on Monitoring and Evaluation, Baba Gujubawu, with Professor Ibrahim Umara from the University of Maiduguri serving as co-chair. Additional members will represent various stakeholders, including Civil Society Organizations, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Jama’atul Nasril Islam (JNI), the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), humanitarian agencies, and traditional leadership, specifically His Royal Highness, the Shehu of Borno.
Governor Zulum emphasized the necessity of conducting the committee’s work with dedication and transparency, highlighting the critical role they will play in delivering aid to the affected communities. He stated, “It is essential that the resources meant for the flood victims reach them effectively and without corruption.”
The flood disaster, which has displaced over 414,000 individuals and resulted in numerous fatalities, was triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam following heavy rainfall. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) reported that this flooding is the worst the region has faced in the past 30 years.
International support is also being mobilized, with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) utilizing $3 million in funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to assist flood victims across Nigeria. The U.S. has stepped up its humanitarian efforts to provide vital assistance to the thousands displaced, particularly in Maiduguri and surrounding areas.
Governor Zulum’s establishment of this committee reflects a proactive approach to managing the aftermath of the floods and ensuring that relief efforts are conducted effectively and transparently.
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