By: John Bassey, Kebbi.
The Federal Government has delivered relief materials to Kebbi State to ease the hardship faced by victims of recent natural disasters.
The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Hajiya Zubaida Umar, presented the allocation documents to Governor Nasir Idris on behalf of the Federal Government at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi, on Friday.
Hajiya Zubaida noted that the Federal Government was aware of the recent challenges confronting Kebbi due to natural disasters.
“There has been flooding in some local government areas, while a devastating windstorm wreaked havoc in Zogirma town,” she said.
“These disasters have severely affected the livelihoods of hundreds of people who have continued to remain resilient.”
She explained that the provision of food items and other relief materials was to complement the efforts of the Kebbi State Government in rehabilitating the affected communities.
The DG commended the governor for providing office accommodation to NEMA in Birnin Kebbi, and revealed that the agency would soon begin the construction of 200 housing units under its resettlement scheme.
She added that NEMA was working closely with the Kebbi State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to implement flood mitigation strategies and sensitise communities on precautionary measures before and during disaster periods.
In his response, Governor Nasir Idris praised NEMA for its proactive interventions and commitment to safeguarding lives and property in times of calamity.
“I am aware of the excellent performance of the DG, Hajiya Zubaida Umar, a proud daughter of Kebbi. She has demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to disaster management,” the Governor said.
“Last year, Kebbi suffered from rainstorms, flooding, and boat mishaps. In response, my administration set up a committee of experts to sensitise residents in high-risk areas, and, where necessary, relocate them to safer locations.”
Governor Idris thanked the Federal Government and NEMA for the timely relief support and assured the DG of the state’s commitment to transparent and equitable distribution of the items to affected victims.
