Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has submitted N61 billion to the state House of Assembly, to address critical infrastructure needs following the devastation caused by floods in the state.

The request seeks to amend the N358.7 billion budget signed into law on January 10, bringing the total estimate to N419.7 billion.

The Speaker, Abdulkarim Lawan, presented the governor’s request at the plenary on Friday.

The September 10 floods submerged large parts of Maiduguri and adjourning communities, displaced about two million people, destroyed 200,000 homes and caused large-scale destruction.

Mr Lawan said the additional funding would primarily focus on reconstruction of key infrastructure such as roads, bridges and hospitals damaged by the disaster.

He stated that the fund would also be directed towards emergency relief efforts, humanitarian aid, support for farmers, economic recovery initiatives and environmental management.

He said, “The Borno State House of Assembly extended its sympathy to the flood victims and commended the efforts of individuals, local and international organisations, state governments, medical personnel, and security agencies for their contributions in alleviating the suffering of those affected.’’

Mr Zulum, who recently conducted an on-site assessment of the damaged infrastructure, said the disaster caused significant devastation requiring immediate intervention to restore normalcy. 

(NAN)