Our Palliative Distribution To Be Sustained-Zulum
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has stated that his administration’s frequent distribution of food relief was essential to balance addressing the immediate needs of those affected by the Boko Haram insurgency while also laying the groundwork for sustainable change.
Zulum noted that while food assistance was provided to the most vulnerable people enduring the decade-long crisis, notable progress has been made across key sectors including healthcare, education, security and infrastructure in Borno State
Governor Zulum stated that the palliative distribution was to salvage communities whose sources of livelihood were cut off due to the activities of Boko Haram insurgents.
Zulum made the comments on Saturday during an interview with reporters in Gajiram, Nganzai Local Government Area, situated in the northern region of the state.
He emphasised the need to establish a sustainable foundation for long-term development rather than relying on short-term solutions like palliative distribution.
“We are not creating dependency. You can see our efforts in reviving the agricultural sector. People should take note that what we are doing is necessary. We only give food items in places extremely affected by insurgency and gradually, we are transiting out,” Zulum said.
Meanwhile, the governor supervised the distribution of food and non-food items and N25m cash to over 25,000 families comprising 10,000 males and 15,000 females.
Each of the male heads of households received a bag of rice and a bag of maize grain, while about 15,000 families each received one wrapper and N5, 000 cash.
Zulum commended the federal government, noting that Borno has received about 15,000 bags of rice from the North East Development Commission (NEDC).
“Let me acknowledge the receipt of about 15,000 bags of rice from the North East Development Commission (NEDC). The rice we distribute here is part of the donation, while Borno State Government donated the maize, wrappers and cash,” Zulum said.
The governor also stated, “I wish to extend our sincere gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the management of NEDC for the support.”
Governor Zulum was assisted in the distribution exercise by the Hon. member representing Nganzai at the House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba, Member, House of Assembly representing Nganzai, Sheikh Ali Gajiram, Honourable Commissioners Sugun Mai Mele and Engr Lawan Abba Wakilbe, Special advisers and other top government officials.
