Gov. Zulum and other dignitaries at the flag off ceremony in Maiduguri
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State says that the bumper harvest recorded in some communities affected by the Boko Haram insurgency will enable his administration to cut down its regular distribution of palliatives to the affected communities by 90 percent.
A statement from Government House Maiduguri Press Unit, said Zulum made this known on Wednesday in Maiduguri while flagging-off the distribution of palliatives to victims of flood disaster in the state.
Zulum said that the development has reinforced his belief in agriculture as a powerful tool for economic empowerment, adding that his administration would continue to remain committed to creating an enabling environment for youths and entrepreneurs to engage in agribusiness and other productive ventures.
“We will continue to invest in agricultural inputs, infrastructure and support programmes that will enhance the sector and drive sustainable economic growth.
“This approach will not only empower our people to become self-reliant but will also significantly reduce government spending on palliatives.
“As a result, moving forward, the provision of palliatives will be reduced by 90% to encourage self-sufficiency and long-term development,” the Governor said.
He commended the federal and sister states governments as well as corporate individuals for their support to Borno during the flood disaster
While rolling out the palliative support of rice and other assorted grains for 250,000 beneficiaries for Ramadan, Zulum noted that the distribution was to mitigate the impact of last year’s flood disaster which affected businesses and livelihood of residents.
He said that 100,000 people will benefit from the distribution in Maiduguri metropolis and the environs, while over 150,000 beneficiaries will receive the palliatives from the remaining 25 local government areas.
“We are all aware that our beloved state has yet to fully recover from the devastating flood disaster that recently affected Maiduguri, Jere, and other communities. Many families are still counting their losses.
“I am deeply moved by the pain and hardship this disaster has caused, particularly for the most vulnerable among us, those that have lost their homes, livelihoods and even loved ones.”
“In preparation for the blessed month of Ramadan, today’s event marks the official launch of the Ramadan food distribution programme, we aim to support 250,000 bottom poor.
“Among the beneficiaries, 100,000 are from Maiduguri and its environs, while an additional 6,000 individuals from each of 26 Local Government Areas of the state will also receive food assistance,” Zulum said.
