By Felix Temitope, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), in the aftermath of the devastating flood disaster that struck Maiduguri and its environs has taken significant steps to support the people of Borno State. On Tuesday, September 17, 2024, Marwa paid a condolence visit to Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, and the Shehu of Borno, His Highness Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanem, expressing his deep sympathy over the tragedy that has claimed lives, displaced thousands, and caused severe damage to property and farmland.
According to a statement today by the agency's spokesperson Femi Babafemi, during his visit, Marwa, a former military governor of the old Borno State, expressed his sorrow at the magnitude of the disaster, noting that the impact on lives, livelihoods, and the environment was devastating. As a demonstration of his concern, Marwa facilitated the donation of high-yield fertilizers, valued at N120 million, to assist farmers affected by the floods. The donation, equivalent to ten trailer loads of fertilizer, was made possible through a fertilizer company personally known to him.
Speaking on the disaster, Marwa said, "From my knowledge of Borno State as a former military governor, I can appreciate the enormity of the devastation caused by this flood. With the increasing figures of deaths, displaced persons, and damage to property and land, this could be the worst natural disaster to hit a single city in the history of Nigeria."
He further emphasized the importance of national support, calling on Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and the Borno State government in addressing the aftermath of the flood. Marwa highlighted the need for both immediate and long-term measures to alleviate the suffering of the people. While immediate needs include food, water, medicines, and temporary shelter, he stressed the importance of medium-term efforts such as helping farmers return to their land to prevent famine.
"The state government has been working tirelessly to address the situation, but the people will need more support. In the medium term, getting farmers back to their fields is critical to avoid famine in the coming months. That’s why we’ve facilitated this donation of high-yield fertilizers to help affected farmers recover quickly," Marwa added.
Governor Zulum, in his response, expressed profound gratitude for Marwa’s visit and the generous donation. He acknowledged Marwa’s longstanding commitment to the people of Borno and described the fertilizer donation as a timely intervention that would have a significant impact on recovery efforts.
The Shehu of Borno, His Highness Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanem, also lauded Marwa for his solidarity during this difficult time and for his contribution towards helping the people recover from the disaster.
The fertilizer donation is expected to be distributed to affected farmers across the state, helping them return to their farms and restore agricultural productivity, a vital lifeline for many communities in Borno. The gesture underscores Marwa’s enduring connection to the region and his commitment to supporting those affected by the catastrophic flood.
The flood, which has been described as one of the worst in Nigeria's history, has left Borno reeling as efforts to restore normalcy continue. With ongoing support from federal and state governments, as well as donations from well-meaning Nigerians like Marwa, the people of Borno are hopeful that recovery is on the horizon.
