Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, has unveiled a ₦2.9 billion support initiative to assist flood victims, vulnerable residents and small business owners across the state.
Speaking at the launch, which took place in Damaturu, the state capital, the governor emphasized that the programme is designed to empower citizens, restore hope, and enhance resilience in the wake of the devastating 2024 floods.
Gov. Buni revealed that the state government will provide ₦50,000 each to 25,500 flood victims and vulnerable individuals, while 15,000 small business owners will receive ₦100,000 each.
“This year’s floods were unprecedented, affecting 441 communities across all 17 local government areas, displacing over 20,000 households, and tragically resulting in 34 deaths,” the governor said.
He highlighted the extensive damage caused by the floods, including the cutting off of key roads such as the Damaturu-Bayamari Road at four locations- Kariyari, Jumbam, Koromari, and Bayamari.
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Other affected roads listed by the governor include, the Damaturu-Buni Road that was cut off between Katarko and Gujba, the Potiskum-Garin Alkali Road damaged at Tarajim, and the Gaidam-Bukarti Road that was cut off at Mozagun.
Gov. Buni added that in response to the devastation caused by the ravaging flood, his administration has carried repair works on damaged roads to reconnect affected communities and restore the movement of goods and services, including rehabilitating other public infrastructure impacted by the flood waters.
He acknowledged that the state government with support from the federal government and development partners, has distributed food, non-food items and ₦100 million in emergency cash aid to the hardest hit local government areas.
