The federal government has pledged to provide a lifeline of N3 billion to states ravaged by floods, a move aimed at mitigating the devastating impact of the disaster.
Minister of Finance and coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, made the announcement during a press briefing at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, on Sunday.
Edun’s statement came after he inspected flood-affected areas in Kebbi, where he witnessed firsthand the trail of destruction left by the raging waters.
The minister explained that the National Economic Council (NEC) has taken proactive steps to support all states and the Federal Capital Territory with the N3 billion intervention fund.
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He added that the financial boost will enable states like Kebbi to prepare their farmers for the crucial dry season farming, which is expected to be a resounding success.
Edun painted a picture of a future where food is abundant and affordable, leading to lower inflation rates and a more stable economy.
He also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to supporting Kebbi State in maintaining its security, resilience, and productivity, with the ultimate goal of becoming Nigeria’s food basket.
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Minister of Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, echoed Edun’s sentiments, lamenting the widespread impact of the flooding on numerous local governments.
However, Bagudu praised the resilience of the Kebbi people and assured them that they would be mobilized to excel during the dry season farming.
In addition to the N3 billion intervention fund, Bagudu revealed that the federal government has approved the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Fund, which will finance projects such as the Badagry-Sokoto road.
Kebbi State will host the longest stretch of this road, and irrigation facilities will be expanded along the 1,000-kilometer route, with significant support for Kebbi’s irrigation needs.
Governor Nasir Idris appealed to the federal government to provide assistance to Kebbi State, given the extensive damage to rice farmlands caused by the flooding.
Idris revealed the state’s position as the leading rice producer in the country and its capacity to feed the entire nation and beyond.
He requested that the ministers discuss potential aid with President Tinubu, further showing the state’s readiness to support farmers in the upcoming rice farming season.
