Yobe State Governor Disburses N2.9bn To Flood Victims, Vulnerable Persons

Damaturu, Yobe State – Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni, on Wednesday launched a N2.9 billion support package for victims of the devastating 2024 floods, vulnerable persons, and small business owners.

The initiative aims to empower citizens, restore hope, and bolster resilience following the widespread destruction caused by unprecedented flooding across the state.

The floods, according to Governor Buni, affected over 20,000 households in 441 communities across all 17 local government areas, resulting in 34 deaths.

Major transportation routes were severely impacted, with sections of the Damaturu to Bayamari federal highway (in Kariyari, Jumbam, Koromari, and Bayamari), the Damaturu to Buni federal road (between Katarko and Gujba), the Potiskum to Garin Alkali road (at Tarajim), and the Gaidam to Bukarti road (at Mozagun) completely washed away.

The state government swiftly intervened, repairing these critical routes to restore the movement of people and goods.

Similar repairs were undertaken on the Gadaka to Godowoli and Dogon Kuka to Daura roads.

The N2.9 billion disbursement will see 25,500 flood victims and vulnerable persons receive N50,000 each, while 15,000 small business owners will receive N100,000 each.

This follows earlier emergency aid, including food, non-food items, and N100 million in cash, distributed to the hardest-hit areas with the support of the federal government and development partners.

Governor Buni emphasised the state government’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Initiative, promising continued support for women, people with disabilities, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups.

He reiterated the government’s dedication to providing free education, accessible and affordable healthcare, technological advancements, and economic incentives to empower less privileged citizens and drive economic growth.

The governor highlighted the extensive damage to public structures, private homes, farmlands, and livestock caused by the floods.