The Nigeria’s Governors Forum (NGF) have pledged food support for victims of devastating flood in Maiduguri, Borno state. The Governors also hailed the leader of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, who they say, rose to the occasion, thereby mitigating the losses.
Representatives of the governors inspected many of the areas affected by the disaster for firsthand knowledge of the situation, which led to the displacement of more than half a million people and affected over a million, describing the situation as “a huge humanitarian crisis.”
NGF chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said in a statement on X: “I led my colleagues at the NGF to Maiduguri, Borno State, where we assessed the impact of the recent flooding that has displaced thousands of residents.
“It is a huge humanitarian crisis, which requires that we all rally around the victims at this time.
“The NGF stands in solidarity with the government and residents of the affected areas.
“We commend the swift efforts of the Federal Government and the state’s authorities to bring immediate succour to the victims.”
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a separate message on X on the visit, said the governors of Ondo, Adamawa, and Kwara were in Borno “to extend our support to Governor Zulum in light of the tragic flooding in Maiduguri”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected by this disaster,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of a united response to the crisis, urging the nation to rally behind Borno.
“The extent of the flooding in Maiduguri is truly devastating.
“As a nation, it is important that we come together to provide relief, assist in rescue operations, and ensure that those affected receive the necessary aid.
“We stand in solidarity with the people of Maiduguri and commend the ongoing rescue efforts.
“The community’s resilience is truly inspiring, and Lagos remains dedicated to offering our support in every possible way,” Sanwo-Olu added.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu expressed her heartfelt condolences to the people of Borno.
In a personal statement, Mrs. Tinubu commiserated with the affected community.
She acknowledged the immense burden of the tragic loss of lives, homes, and livelihoods, emphasizing that no community should have to bear such a burden.
The First Lady prayed for the resilience and strength of the people of Borno, expressing hope that they would rise above the tragedy and emerge stronger.
She also offered her prayers for the departed souls, seeking Almighty Allah’s grant of Aljanah Firdaus.
“I commiserate with Governor Zulum, his wife and the entire people of the state as they face the devastating impacts of the recent flooding.
“My heart and prayers are with you during this challenging time. The tragic loss of lives, homes and livelihoods is an immense burden that no community should have to bear.
“I pray that Borno State would rise above this tragedy and emerge stronger and more resilient.
“May Almighty Allah grant the departed souls Aljanah Firdaus and may you find the strength and hope to overcome these trying times”.
Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, hopes the interventions so far will ameliorate the situation and bring immediate relief to the people.
“The government and the people of Ogun State are with the Borno people during this period of agony, and we shall continue to pray for them,” he said.
Former Senator President Ahmad Lawan and the Northern Senators’ Forum decried the devastation caused by flooding in Borno and Bauchi states.
Lawan in a statement by his media adviser, Ezrel Tabiowo, commiserated with Governor Zulum and the people of Borno.
“The Borno State government, in collaboration with relevant agencies, should embark on a comprehensive flood control programme to mitigate future disasters,” he said.
Chairman of the Northern Senators’ Forum, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, in a statement, condoled with the people.
He said: “Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and those displaced by this devastating flood.”
