In a bid to alleviate the suffering of flood victims in Borno State, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has donated no fewer than 50 tonnes of relief materials.
The donation, which includes food and non-food items, was announced by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Sunday as part of international efforts to support those affected by recent flooding in the state.
NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, disclosed this during a meeting with Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, in Maiduguri. According to Umar, “The UAE has donated 50 tonnes of relief materials to assist flood victims in Borno State.” She assured that NEMA would continue working closely with the state government to ensure the relief materials are distributed efficiently to those in need.
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Governor Zulum expressed gratitude for the UAE’s and NEMA’s support, noting, “We appreciate your efforts in supporting our people during this challenging time.” He also revealed that the state government does not plan to maintain the 36 camps established for flood victims indefinitely due to logistical challenges.
Zulum explained that the camps have become overwhelmed with individuals not directly affected by the flood, leading to a strain on available resources. Despite these difficulties, the state government will continue to provide food and relief items to genuine victims for the next two weeks.
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The governor urged NEMA to collaborate closely with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis, which has been worsened by the collapse of the Alao Dam. He also voiced concern over the influx of people from nearby unaffected villages seeking aid, further diverting resources from those most in need.
The UAE’s donation marks a significant contribution to the ongoing relief efforts, as Borno State continues to grapple with the aftermath of devastating floods.
