Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has requested an additional N61 billion from the State House of Assembly, increasing the initial N358.7 billion total budget signed into law on January 10, 2024.
The governor’s request was presented on the floor of the State Assembly by the Speaker, Abdulkarim Lawan, as part of an effort to amend the 2024 appropriation act, according to a release on Friday from the SSA New Media, Abdurrahman Bundi.
The additional funding will specifically target key infrastructure severely damaged by the September 10 flood, which affected nearly 2 million people and completely submerged parts of Maiduguri and surrounding local government areas (LGAs).
In addition to reconstructing key infrastructure, the supplementary budget will also cover other government expenditures, including emergency relief and humanitarian aid, support for farmers, economic recovery, and environmental management.
On Thursday, Governor Zulum conducted an assessment of the destroyed bridges, road networks, and hospitals to ascertain the extent of the damage. He noted that the devastation from the flood was massive.
Meanwhile, the Borno State House of Assembly has extended its sympathy and condolences to the flood victims. The Assembly also commended individuals, local and international organizations, state governments, medical personnel, and security agencies for their contributions in alleviating the plight of those affected.
