The Federal Government says it will support states affected by flood with N3 billion to mitigate the effect of the menace.
The announcement was made by Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, during a visit to Kebbi State.
Speaking at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, Mr. Edun disclosed that the National Economic Council (NEC) has taken proactive steps to support all states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in mitigating the effects of the floods. He emphasized that this intervention aims to provide immediate relief and prepare states like Kebbi for the upcoming dry season farming.
“I will announce here that the National Economic Council has been proactive and has taken action in order to support all the states of the federation and the FCT with N3 billion to mitigate the effect of flood this year,” Edun stated. He further explained that the fund would enable states to assist farmers in preparing for the dry season, which is crucial for ensuring food security.
Mr. Edun highlighted the importance of this support, stating that successful dry season farming would help ensure food availability at affordable prices, thereby lowering inflation and contributing to the stabilization of the economy. “That will put many states like Kebbi in a good position to be able to prepare their farmers for the all-important dry season farming, which we anticipate will be successful, well planned, and well implemented,” he added.
The minister’s visit to Kebbi was part of a broader assessment tour to evaluate the impact of the flooding in various states. During his inspection of the affected areas, Edun witnessed the extent of the damage caused by the floods, which have displaced thousands of residents and destroyed farmlands.
Also present during the visit was Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Economic Planning, who expressed deep concern over the devastating impact of the flooding. Bagudu, who has previously served as the governor of Kebbi State, noted that the extent of the damage was worse than what he had observed during his last visit to the affected areas.
“The flooding has affected many local governments beyond what I saw when I visited the areas recently,” Bagudu lamented. He underscored the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate intervention to prevent further hardship.
In addition to the N3 billion relief fund, Bagudu announced that the federal government has approved the establishment of a Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund. This fund will be used to finance critical infrastructure projects across the country, including the construction of the Badagry – Sokoto road.
This initiative aims to enhance connectivity and boost economic activities in the region, further contributing to the country’s overall development.
