Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has extended his condolences to the government and people of Borno State following the devastating floods that swept through Maiduguri, the state capital. The floods, which occurred last week, led to the tragic loss of at least 30 lives and displaced over a million people, creating widespread hardship across the state.
The former president expressed his sympathy through a statement directed to the Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum. In his message, Obasanjo described the disaster as a significant tragedy, noting that despite the fact that seasonal flooding is a common occurrence in Nigeria, the scale of destruction in Borno was unprecedented.
The ex-President said, “Although seasonal flooding is not uncommon in many parts of Nigeria, all available accounts indicate that what Borno State has just suffered was one of the most devastating incidents in recent times.”
“This is evidenced by the magnitude of the loss of human lives, harvested food crops, farmlands, livestock, buildings, and personal effects involved.”
Obasanjo urged Zulum to maximise the crisis to showcase his leadership, saying, “It is usually in the midst of disasters of this nature that the qualities of good leadership and courage become manifest.”
“Permit me, therefore, to commend you and the Government of Borno State for the swiftness and efficacy with which you rose to the challenge, giving every possible support in your continued efforts to provide succor to those who have been dislocated.”
“Once again, I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the state government and the families of the deceased. May Almighty Allah comfort and strengthen those they left behind,” Obasanjo said.
Over N17 billion in donations has poured into the state from various sources, including the Federal Government, international organizations, private individuals, and other state governments.
The Federal Government led the way with a relief fund of N3 billion, while the United Nations also contributed $6 million (approximately N10 billion) through the Nigeria Humanitarian Fund, according to a statement released by the UN Information Office.
The total UN support is expected to rise to over $8 million as more donations are anticipated.
Several high-profile individuals and organizations have also joined in the relief efforts. Billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote donated N1 billion through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to support the Borno State Government in providing aid to flood victims.
In addition, his uncle, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, pledged N1.5 billion to the relief effort during a visit to the state.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar donated N100 million, while Labour Party leader Peter Obi contributed N5 million. Both chambers of the National Assembly have also extended their support, with a collective donation of N174 million to the victims.
Contributions from various members of the Borno State National Assembly amounted to N552 million, with notable figures such as former Borno Governor Ali Modu Sheriff giving N100 million.
Governors from neighboring states have also shown their support. Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni donated N100 million, while Bauchi State Governor Bala Muhammad provided N250 million to aid the victims.
Governor Zulum, in response, expressed deep gratitude to all those who have supported the state during this challenging time. He assured that the funds would be used responsibly to help those affected by the disaster, particularly in rebuilding communities and providing essential aid.
In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on New Media, AbdulRahman Bundi, the governor emphasized the state’s commitment to collaborating with national and international organizations to alleviate the suffering of flood victims and ensure their recovery.
