By Gloria Ikibah
The Chairman of House of Representatives Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rep. Aliyu Muktar Betara, has donated the sum of N100 million to assist victims of the recent flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Betara, who represents the Biu/Bayo/Shani/Kwaya Kusar Federal Constituency, made the donation during a visit to Governor Babagana Zulum.
Expressing his sorrow over the loss of lives and displacement of thousands of residents, Rep. Betara commended the governor’s swift response in addressing the disaster’s impact. He assured the people that further assistance would come through relevant institutions to aid in their rehabilitation.
In his remarks, Betara said: “On behalf of the people of Biu/Bayo/Shani/Kwaya Kusar Constituency, I express my deepest condolences to Governor Zulum and the entire people of Borno State. This flood has caused immense suffering, and we stand united in offering support.”
He pledged to raise the issue in the House of Representatives once it resumes from recess, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention. Betara also praised Governor Zulum’s efforts to alleviate the suffering of the victims.
According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Maiduguri floods have claimed 37 lives so far, with additional deaths reported as the disaster unfolds. NEMA also indicated that across 29 states, over 1 million people have been affected by flooding, with 625,239 displaced and 259 lives lost.
NEMA Director-General, Zubaida Umar, stated that the flooding is not entirely unexpected, given predictions in the Annual Flood Outlook, which identified high-risk areas for flooding during the July to September period.