First Lady visits Borno, pledges support for flood victims

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

First Lady of Nigeria Oluremi Tinubu, accompanied by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shetimma, and several state governors’ wives, in a solidarity visit to Borno State, offered N250 million support to victims of the devastating floods that struck on September 10.

The visit was organised under the auspices of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), her pet project.

According to a statement issued by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady, during her visit, she commended Governor Babagana Zulum for his ongoing developmental efforts in the state. “We are here to support you. It is really sad but I pray the land will flourish and prosper again,” she stated, emphasising the importance of collective recovery efforts.

Responding to a plea from the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn El-kanemi, for assistance to women affected by the floods, Mrs Tinubu announced a significant support package. “After His Royal Majesty’s words, myself and HE Hajia Shettima discussed it on our way here and agreed that the Initiative will give N50,000 each to 5,000 women petty traders to support their businesses,” she revealed.

Zulum expressed gratitude for the First Lady’s continued support and contributions since the floods. “Your visit and donations are further evidence that you are truly a mother to the whole nation,” he remarked.

The First Lady also interacted with flood victims at the Borno State Government House, distributing relief materials that included food and sanitary items.