Zulum cuts palliative distribution by 90% to victims of insurgency

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum has announced a 90% cut in the distribution of palliatives which were previously been distributed to the victims of Boko Haram insurgents. Speaking at the event on Wednesday, Zulum noted that the distribution was to mitigate the impact of last year’s flood disaster which affected businesses and the livelihood of residents.

He explained that the decision was influenced by the bumper harvest recorded from different communities across the state.

“Our perseverance has reinforced my belief that agriculture is not just a means of survival, it is a powerful tool for economic empowerment. As a result, the State Government is committed to creating an enabling environment for our youth and entrepreneurs to engage in agribusiness and other productive ventures,” the governor stated.

He added, “We will continue to invest in agricultural inputs, infrastructure and support programmes that will enhance the sector and drive sustainable economic growth.”

He further said, “This approach will not only empower our people to become self-reliant but will also significantly reduce government spending on palliatives. As a result, moving forward, the provision of palliatives will be reduced by 90% to encourage self-sufficiency and long-term development.”

The governor noted that while 100,000 people will benefit from the distribution in the Maiduguri metropolis and the environs, over 150,000 beneficiaries will receive the palliatives from 25 local government councils.

He said, “We are all aware that our beloved state has yet to fully recover from the devastating flood disaster that recently affected Maiduguri, Jere, and other communities. Many families are still counting their losses.”

“I am deeply moved by the pain and hardship this disaster has caused, particularly for the most vulnerable among us, those that have lost their homes, livelihoods and even loved ones.”

“In preparation for the blessed month of Ramadan, today’s event marks the official launch of the Ramadan food distribution programme, we aim to support 250,000 bottom poor. Among the beneficiaries, 100,000 are from Maiduguri and its environs, while an additional 6,000 individuals from each of 26 Local Government Areas of the state will also receive food assistance.”

Also, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee for the distribution of Ramadan food intervention and Senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, stated that the selection process is devoid of political affiliation.

Senator Kaka Shehu noted that the beneficiaries were carefully selected across 15 wards in MMC, 12 wards in Jere Local Government, as well as Zannari in Mafa and Pompomari community in Konduga, making a total of 29 wards.

He outlined the criteria for beneficiaries, which included being a resident of the catchment area, being an adult, and possessing a valid means of identification.

“The selection process was conducted in all the wards through a committee composed of key stakeholders. The exercise was devoid of party affinity; we did not take any political party into consideration. Provided you are an adult, have a valid means of identification, and reside in the catchment area, you are eligible,” Senator Kaka Shehu stated.

The Chairman announced that the flag-off would commence with eight wards, namely: Hausari, Mafoni, Shehuri North, Shehuri South, Bulabulin, Limanti, Gamboru, and Limanti.

The Senator further announced that from Thursday, the exercise would be carried out at two additional centres, the Sports Centre and the Mechanical Workshop, with the expectation of completing the distribution over the weekend.