By Abdul Kareem

In what seems another assertive response to the economic challenges and inflationary pressures affecting Borno State, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum coordinated a substantial food aid programme for over 52,500 families across seven local government areas in the southern part of the state.

The relief effort, which unfolded at Biu township stadium on Sunday, targeted households in Biu, Shani, Chibok, Askira-Uba, Kwaya Kusar, Bayo, and Hawul.

The initiative is part of a broader strategy to provide support to the region’s most vulnerable residents.

Governor Zulum explained the action, stating, “This morning, we are in Biu to provide palliatives to 52,500 vulnerable families in southern Borno. This is in continuation of our efforts to provide food and non-food items to the less privileged in society.”

Although the southern Borno region has not been the most deeply affected by the ongoing insurgency, the spike in food prices has prompted the government to extend its support with food aid. Each family received a 25kg bag of rice and a 25kg bag of maize.

The distribution saw 17,500 families in Biu local government area and 5,000 families in Shani, Bayo, Kwaya Kusar, and Hawul local government areas benefit from the scheme. Additionally, in the local government areas of Askira-Uba and Chibok, 7,500 families each were provided with the governor’s food palliatives.

In a further move to bolster local agriculture and self-reliance, Governor Zulum also handed out over N100m to 2,000 young people and women to aid them in farming ventures.

“We are giving out N100m grant to 2,000 beneficiaries, each receiving N50,000. This grant is for them to use in cultivating their farmlands,” the governor reaffirmed, expressing his hope that the funds would enhance their farming activities.

Gov Zulum, flanked by Dep Gov Kadaful, Dep Speaker Askira present cash and food to beneficiaries

The Deputy Governor of Borno, Umar Usman Kadafur, advocated for the efficient use of the food and financial aid during the ceremony, which was attended by prominent political figures including Borno APC Chairman Bello Ayuba, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, and other government officials.