President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Maiduguri, Borno State’s capital, for a visit to address the recent flood disaster.
The president made the trip on Monday shortly after returning from China and a brief stay in the United Kingdom.
On arrival, Tinubu was welcomed by Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Air Commodore Usman Idris, and senior Nigerian Army officers stationed in the Northeast.
Other officials welcoming the President included Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari, Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kari, and key figures of the All Progressives Congress and Tinubu administration.
During his visit to Maiduguri, President Tinubu is expected to meet with the Sheu of Borno, Abubakar Garba Ibn Umar Al Amin Elkanemi.
The flooding, caused by heavy rains that overwhelmed the Alau Dam, displaced over 400 people, affected more than 1 million residents, and claimed over 30 lives.
Earlier, the president had sent Vice President Kashim Shettima to evaluate the disaster and announce a N30 billion federal donation for relief efforts.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed condolences to the government and citizens of Borno, particularly the families impacted by the flood from the Alau Dam overflow.
BREAKING: President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Maiduguri to sympathize with the government and the people of Borno over the flood that damaged homes, hospitals, markets, schools, and other facilities. pic.twitter.com/L39VGLzIRm
— TVC News (@tvcnewsng) September 16, 2024
With authorities still assessing the damage, Tinubu urged for immediate evacuation of residents from affected areas.
He assured Zulum that the federal government would collaborate closely with the state to provide humanitarian aid.
Tinubu also directed NEMA to assist flood victims and pledged to mobilize federal resources for the state during this crisis.
