Yobe Govt. Doles Out N1.4bn To 2, 500 Flood Victims
By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
The Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni has approved the implementation of the Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance programme through which 25,500 flood victims and vulnerable population in the state would receive N1.4 billion assistance.
This was part of decision taken during the State Executive Council Meeting chaired by Governor Mai Mala Buni at the council chamber, Government House, Damaturu, on Monday.
Briefing newsmen shortly after the meeting, the Commissioner of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Dr. Mairo Amshi said the cash support was part of the state government’s comprehensive support for the victims and vulnerables persons in Yobe state.
She said that the disbursement of N50,000 each to 1,500 beneficiaries will begin after community engagement involving SEMA, traditional leaders, women groups and youth representatives.
“This initiative is part of a broader effort to alleviate the hardships faced by flood victims and vulnerables across the state.
“As directed by Governor Buni, SEMA has been active in distributing food, non-food items, and hygiene kits to support the victims and the vulnerables.
“The disbursement will follow a thorough validation and verification process to be conducted by SEMA through engagement with the community, the Flood Adhoc Committees, and other government officials.
“The Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance forms part of Governor Buni’s broader flood response strategy, which has already seen similar distributions in the past.
“This cash support combined with ongoing distributions of food, NFI, building materials, and hygiene kits, demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing comprehensive relief to those in need,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary, Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Mohammed Goje, emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in the disbursement process.
He assured everyone that every effort would be made to ensure that no one is left behind or shortchanged.
He acknowledged the difficult times the victims and the vulnerables are facing, and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting them.
He said, as the flood recovery efforts continue, SEMA remains focused on alleviating the immediate challenges while working in line with Governor Buni’s vision of rebuilding and restoring affected communities across Yobe State.