NEDC donates building, rescue materials to flood victims in Yobe

The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) has provided building supplies and emergency rescue gear to 13 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Yobe that were impacted by flooding, aiming to enhance disaster readiness and assist at-risk communities.

During a symbolic ceremony on Tuesday in Damaturu, the Commission's Managing Director, Mr. Muhammed Alkali, shared this news.

Alkali, who was represented by NEDC's Yobe Coordinator, Prof. Ali Abbas, stated that this contribution reflects the commission's dedication to improving the State Government's capabilities in handling flood-related emergencies and boosting humanitarian efforts.

"Our aim today is to deliver construction materials and rescue equipment to aid communities that suffered from last year's devastating floods.

"This initiative is a proactive approach for any future incidents. Additionally, it supports the ongoing initiatives by the Yobe State Government under Governor Mai Mala Buni," he explained.

According to him, the affected LGAs include Bade, Jakusko, Fune, Fika, Gujba, Gulani, Potiskum, Nangere, Karasuwa, Yusufari, Machina, Nguru, and Yunusari.

He noted that the assistance also targets conflict-hit areas like Katarko and Gurujaje in Gujba and Tarmuwa LGAs, where herder-farmer conflicts have led to the displacement of families.

The donated items comprise 150 rain boots, 150 life jackets, 1,000 hauling ropes and hooks, 1,000 emergency cables and wires, 10 sets of boat safety gear, and 15 complete search-and-rescue kits.

“These supplies aim to strengthen the operational capacity of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), which is recognized as one of the nation’s most effective emergency response agencies,” he stated.

He mentioned that local government leaders, along with traditional and community figures and local emergency committees, would manage the distribution of these relief supplies, while NEDC officials ensure fairness and transparency.

Mrs. Marairo Amahi, the Yobe Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, praised the NEDC for their commitment and timely support. She also acknowledged Dr. Mohammed Goje, the Executive Secretary of Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and his team for their dedicated response to crises.

“You have made a significant impact on the lives of those in need. While I was monitoring from Saudi Arabia, I witnessed your team risking their lives to help flood victims with limited resources,” she remarked.

She recalled that after the flooding in November 2024, Governor Mai Mala Buni authorized assistance of N50,000 to victims in 25 communities across 17 LGAs, totaling N1.43 billion.

“This clearly shows the governor’s commitment to helping those affected by disasters,” she added.

Amahi urged religious and community leaders to ensure that roofing and relief items are used appropriately and not misallocated.

“Some residents still lack roofs over their heads. We must ensure that this help reaches those who truly need it,” she emphasized.