The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), paid a condolence visit to Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, and the Shehu of Borno, His Highness Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, following the recent flood disaster that claimed lives, displaced hundreds of thousands, and caused extensive damage to properties in Maiduguri and surrounding areas.
During his visit on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, Marwa expressed deep concern over the magnitude of the disaster, especially as a former Military Governor of the old Borno State. He acknowledged the severe impact the floods had on the lives, livelihoods, and environment of the people.
Marwa announced that, in response to the crisis, he had reached out to a fertilizer company, which donated high-yield fertilizers equivalent to 10 trailer loads, valued at N120 million, to the state government. These would be distributed to affected farmers to help them quickly return to farming and prevent potential famine.
Reflecting on his knowledge of Borno, Marwa said, “I understand the extent of the devastation this flood has caused to the people of Maiduguri, their homes, and their livelihood. The emerging figures regarding deaths, displaced persons, and property damage suggest this could be the worst natural disaster in the history of a single Nigerian city.”
He emphasized the need for national support: “Well-meaning Nigerians must join President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and the state government in mitigating the effects of this disaster. While the state government is already addressing immediate needs like food, water, medicines, and shelter, medium-term solutions, such as restoring farms, are essential to avoid further crises.”
Governor Zulum and the Shehu of Borno expressed their gratitude to Marwa for his solidarity with the people of the state and for his generous contribution to the recovery efforts.