The Niger State Government has extended a helping hand to the victims of the recent flood in Maiduguri, Borno State, with a donation of ₦250 million. This generous contribution came as Governor Umaru Bago led a delegation to Maiduguri to express solidarity and offer support to the government and people of Borno in the aftermath of the devastating flood. The flood, which affected over two million people, has left the city grappling with enormous challenges, including the displacement of thousands of families, loss of livelihoods, and widespread damage to property and infrastructure.
Governor Bago described the situation in Maiduguri as deeply tragic and concerning. He emphasized that this was a time for all Nigerians to come together and provide much-needed support to the flood victims. Addressing the people of Borno, he encouraged them to remain resilient in the face of adversity and maintain their faith in Allah. “This is a situation that calls for unity and strength,” Governor Bago said, adding that there is a need for collective efforts to help the people of Borno recover from this calamity. He expressed confidence that with the support of well-meaning Nigerians, Borno will rise again.
In his message of solidarity, Governor Bago urged the residents of Borno to stand behind their Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, as he leads recovery efforts. He praised Zulum’s leadership, noting that the Borno Governor has been tireless in his efforts to restore normalcy and rebuild communities affected by the disaster. Bago further assured the people of Borno that Niger State was ready to provide more than just financial aid, stating that his government would not hesitate to send health workers to assist with medical care whenever the need arises. This offer is particularly crucial, as flood-stricken communities often face heightened risks of diseases and health emergencies due to stagnant water and disrupted sanitation systems.
Governor Babagana Zulum, in his response, expressed profound gratitude to the Niger State Government for its generous donation and moral support. He assured that the ₦250 million donation would be put to good use, specifically to help the most vulnerable flood victims rebuild their lives. Zulum also took the opportunity to commend Governor Bago’s developmental strides in Niger State, pointing out that Bago had strengthened the already existing bond between Niger and Borno States through acts of goodwill and cooperation.
The delegation from Niger State, which accompanied Governor Bago to Maiduguri, included top officials such as the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, members of the State Executive Council, Special Advisers, Local Government Chairmen, and the traditional rulers—the Emirs of Borgu and Kagara. Their presence underscored the significance of the visit, symbolizing the deep-rooted relationships between the two states. The visit wasn’t only about delivering financial aid but also about reinforcing cultural and political ties and standing in solidarity with the people of Borno during this trying time.
In a gesture of compassion and empathy, special prayers were offered for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives in the flood. Prayers were also made for the speedy recovery of the injured, and for Allah’s blessings to replenish the lost properties and livelihoods of the affected families. Additionally, prayers were directed towards asking for divine intervention to prevent a recurrence of such a disaster in the future.
During the visit, the Niger State delegation also paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the Shehu of Borno, a key figure in the cultural and political life of the state. The delegation offered their condolences and commiserations to the Shehu and his subjects and sought royal blessings. This visit to the palace further emphasized the importance of unity and the traditional bonds that connect states in Nigeria, particularly in times of hardship and distress.
In the face of overwhelming destruction, the resilience and unity displayed by both the Niger and Borno State governments demonstrate that solidarity remains a powerful tool for overcoming adversity. Governor Bago’s visit, along with the financial and moral support extended by the Niger State Government, brings hope to the people of Borno that with continued assistance, they can begin to rebuild their lives, homes, and communities. For now, the journey to recovery may be long, but the shared support and compassion between states like Niger and Borno will certainly help ease the burden of this tragic event.
