Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has flagged off the distribution of palliatives under the Renewed Hope Initiative to vulnerable residents across Borno State ahead of the Eid al-Adha celebration.

The distribution exercise was launched on Monday at the Conference Hall of Prime Lodge in Maiduguri.
Zulum commended Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, for supporting widows, orphans, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable groups through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

“On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I sincerely appreciate Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and founder of the Renewed Hope Initiative, for this compassionate intervention aimed at supporting vulnerable Nigerians and restoring hope to families facing economic hardship,” the governor said.

Zulum also praised the resilience and patience of Borno residents despite years of insurgency and insecurity, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving citizens’ welfare through people-oriented policies and programmes.

“Despite the challenges our state has faced over the years, our people have continued to demonstrate resilience, patience, and courage. As a government, we remain committed to implementing programmes and policies that directly improve the lives of our citizens,” he stated.

According to the governor, the palliative distribution forms part of broader federal and state government social support programmes designed to cushion economic hardship and strengthen community resilience.

“The distribution exercise we are flagging off today is part of our broader social support programme aimed at cushioning economic difficulties and strengthening community resilience,” he added.

He urged members of the distribution committee to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability throughout the exercise so the items would reach the intended beneficiaries.

Zulum also advised beneficiaries to make proper use of the items distributed and appreciated security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and development partners for their continued support in peacebuilding and humanitarian interventions across the state.

Earlier, Chairman of the Distribution Committee, Dr. Abba Bashir Dankellori, thanked Senator Oluremi Tinubu for what he described as a timely intervention that would help many Muslim families celebrate the forthcoming Sallah with ease.

“I wish to, on behalf of the committee, thank the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for the kind gesture. We also appreciate Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for his selfless leadership, commitment, and service to the people of the state,” Dankellori said.

He disclosed that beneficiaries include Qur’anic and Sangaya school teachers, as well as religious organisations contributing to the moral upbringing of society.

The governor was accompanied to the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani; Acting Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Malumbe; Coordinator of Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Engr. Baba Bukar Gujbawu; Permanent Secretary, Government House, Barr. Mustapha Busuguma, alongside other top government officials.