Former President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed his condolences to the people and government of Borno State following last week’s devastating flood in Maiduguri, which claimed at least 30 lives and displaced over a million residents. Donations to Borno, including support from the Federal Government, have exceeded N17 billion.
In a message to Borno State Governor Prof. Babagana Zulum, Obasanjo described the disaster as tragic and commended the state’s swift response. His message, delivered through his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, noted, “While seasonal floods are common, Borno has experienced one of the most severe incidents in recent memory. The scale of loss, including lives, crops, livestock, and property, is immense.”
Obasanjo encouraged Zulum to use the crisis to demonstrate leadership, stating, “It is during such times that true leadership shines.” He praised the state government’s rapid efforts to support displaced victims and provide relief. The former president also extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those affected, praying for their comfort.
Meanwhile, donations continue to pour in for Borno. The Federal Government contributed N3 billion, while the United Nations announced $6 million (approximately N10 billion) in humanitarian aid. The UN’s Nigeria Humanitarian Fund also committed to additional contributions, raising the total pledge to over $8 million.
Among notable donors, Aliko Dangote pledged N1 billion, allocated to the National Emergency Management Agency in collaboration with the Borno State government. Additionally, northern billionaire Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata donated N1.5 billion, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar contributed N100 million. Peter Obi, leader of the Labour Party, added N5 million to the relief efforts.
The National Assembly pledged N174 million, while local Borno State stakeholders and representatives contributed N552 million collectively. Neighboring state governors, including Yobe’s Mai Mala Buni (N100 million) and Bauchi’s Bala Muhammad (N250 million), also extended support.
Governor Zulum, in response, assured that the funds would be utilized effectively to assist flood victims. His administration plans to coordinate with local, national, and international partners to aid recovery efforts in affected communities, according to his Senior Special Assistant on New Media, AbdulRahman Bundi.
