Zulum seeks N61b to 2024 budget to fix infrastructure damaged by flood

Governor Babagana Zulum has requested an additional N61 billion for the Zamfara State budget, increasing the total from N358.7 billion, which was signed into law on January 10, 2024.

The request was presented on the floor of the State Assembly by Speaker Abdulkarim Lawan, aiming to amend the 2024 Appropriation Act.

The additional funding is intended to target critical infrastructure that was severely damaged by the flood that struck on September 10, affecting nearly two million people and completely submerging parts of Maiduguri and surrounding local government areas (LGAs).

In addition to infrastructure reconstruction, the supplementary budget will also address other government expenditures, including emergency relief, 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 evaluate the extent of the damage, noting, “The devastation from the flood was massive.”

In a related development, the Borno State House of Assembly extended sympathy and condolences to the flood victims.

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The assembly also commended individuals, local and international organisations, state governments, medical personnel, and security agencies for their contributions in alleviating the plight of those affected.