First Lady Visits Flood Victims In Borno, Pledges Support Under Renewed Hope Initiative

Nigeria's First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Thursday visited Maiduguri in Borno State to show support for the victims of the floods that occurred on Sept. 10 as part of her project, the Renewed Hope Initiative.

Tinubu was accompanied by the vice president's wife, Hajia Nana Shetimma, and the wives of some state governors.

During the visit, the first lady praised the infrastructure improvements happening in Borno State under Governor Babagana Zulum.

"We are here to support you. It is really sad but I pray the land will flourish and prosper again," the first lady said, as per the official statement issued on X.

"After His Royal Majesty's words, myself and HE Hajia Shettima discussed it on our way here and agreed that the Initiative will give N50,000 each to 5,000 women petty traders to support their businesses."

The first lady later met with some of the victims at the Borno State Government House. During the visit, she handed over relief supplies, including large amounts of food and sanitary items, to help them.

Following Borno Shehu Alhaji Abubakar Ibn El-Kanemi's request for help, the first lady announced that the Renewed Hope Initiative will support 5,000 women petty traders in Borno State, who were affected by the floods with N250 million.

She noted that the flood, which caused some deaths and left many people homeless, was troubling and that all Nigerians needed to come together to help the victims recover.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum expressed his gratitude to the first lady and the Renewed Hope Initiative for their support and contributions since the disaster occurred.

"I thank your Excellency for the initial donation, which was made through the wife of the Vice President. These food items and other items and your visit are a further evidence that you are truly a mother to the whole nation," he said.

Last month, President Bola Tinubu announced a disaster relief fund during his visit to Maiduguri in Borno State. He also encouraged the private sector to contribute to the fund, noting that it was needed urgently due to the increasing unpredictability of the climate and the growing vulnerability of many regions.