Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has flagged off the distribution of palliatives under the Renewed Hope Initiative to vulnerable residents across the state ahead of the Eid al-Adha celebration.
The launch took place at the Conference Hall of Prime Lodge in Maiduguri.
Governor Zulum commended the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her support through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which he said is targeted at widows, orphans, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable groups.
On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, Zulum expressed appreciation to the First Lady for what he described as a compassionate intervention aimed at alleviating hardship and restoring hope to families facing economic challenges.
He also acknowledged the resilience of the people of Borno despite years of insecurity, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to implementing people-oriented policies and programmes that improve citizens’ welfare.
According to him, the distribution exercise forms part of broader federal and state social support efforts 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 designed to cushion economic difficulties and strengthen community resilience,” he said.
Governor Zulum urged members of the distribution committee to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in the process so that the items reach the intended beneficiaries. He also encouraged beneficiaries to make proper use of the support provided.
He further appreciated security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and development partners for their continued contributions to peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts in the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Distribution Committee, Dr. Abba Bashir Dankellori, expressed gratitude to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for the intervention, describing it as timely support that would enable many Muslim families to celebrate the forthcoming Sallah with ease.
He also commended Governor Zulum for his leadership and commitment to the welfare of the people of Borno State.
According to him, beneficiaries of the programme include Qur’anic and Sangaya school teachers, as well as religious organisations that play key roles in moral and social development.
Governor Zulum was accompanied 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, among other senior government officials.