The minister of defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar and the chief of defence staff, General Christopher Musa, have commiserated with the governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, and the people of Borno State, over the devastating floods that have ravaged parts of Maiduguri, the state capital.
In a statement by the public relations director of the Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, the minister said the floods have caused significant damage to properties and displaced many residents, adding to the challenges already faced in the state.
“My heartfelt sympathy goes to the people and government of Borno State during this trying period when the flood wreaked havoc in the state caused by the overflow of the Alau Dam.
“I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate flooding in Maiduguri, which has displaced families and caused untold hardship to the people of this great city. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” he said.
He continued, “I want to commend his excellency, Governor Zulum, for the quick response and decisive actions taken to alleviate the suffering of the affected residents. The resilience of the Borno people in the face of adversity is remarkable. I do not doubt that under Governor Zulum’s leadership, Maiduguri will recover swiftly from this disaster,” the minister remarked.
In a related development, the chief of defence staff, General Musa, commiserated with the government and people of Borno State over the devastating flood that ravaged several communities and paralysed economic activities in the state.
A statement by the director of defence information, Brig-Gen Tukur Gusau, said the CDS was saddened to learn of the loss of lives, destruction of property, and the displacement of thousands of citizens as a result of the flood from Alo Dam.
He said, “On behalf of the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria, the chief of defence staff wishes to convey heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and to the government and people of Borno State at this difficult time.”
The defence chief assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will work closely with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant authorities to provide immediate relief and support to the affected communities.
He further directed the theatre commander of Operation Hadin Kai to offer all necessary assistance to victims.
“The AFN stands in solidarity with the people of Borno State and will ensure all affected communities are evacuated safely. In addition, it will support ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts. The CDS remains committed to the efforts of both the federal and Borno State governments to alleviate the suffering of those impacted by this tragic event,” he said.
General Musa prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
He also prayed to Almighty God to ease the pain of the victims.
