Efforts are underway in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states to alleviate the challenges faced by residents following the discontinuation of petrol subsidies. These three states, which have been heavily impacted by insurgency in the North East, have witnessed increased hardship, exacerbated by the removal of the subsidy.
In Borno and Yobe, the distribution of relief packages to households has commenced promptly. Meanwhile, in Adamawa, a committee has been established to formulate the strategy for distribution, although details are still being worked out.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State emphasized his commitment to providing sustained support to disadvantaged individuals and communities affected by insurgency throughout his tenure. He noted that, alongside the Federal Government’s efforts to assist 100,000 vulnerable households, his administration aims to extend aid to an additional 300,000 households, summing up to 400,000 households. Zulum highlighted the unique challenges faced by Borno due to the devastation caused by insurgency, which has hindered the full restoration of farming activities and access to farmlands for returnees.
Ambassador Ahmed Shehu, Chairman of the North East Civil Society Forum, praised the Borno Government for its prompt distribution of relief items and the inclusion of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the committee. He urged other states to adopt a similar approach, involving CSOs in their relief efforts to ensure transparency and accountability.
In Yobe, the distribution of relief items has already begun, with a focus on aiding 80,000 households across 17 local government areas. Alhaji Idi Gubana, Deputy Governor and Chairman of the relief committee, shared that distributions were launched in different senatorial zones, each in a specific location.
In Adamawa, though the distribution of relief items is pending, the state government has established a distribution committee under the leadership of Alhaji Auwal Tukur, the Secretary to the State Government. The committee’s primary responsibilities include devising transportation methods for the delivery of both food and non-food items and ensuring fair and equitable distribution to the intended recipients.
Some internally displaced persons (IDPs) residing in the Damare camp in Girei Local Government Area of Adamawa have appealed to the state government for support. Ladi Paul, the Women Leader at the camp, highlighted the urgent need for food assistance among the 227 households residing in the camp. She emphasized that the removal of fuel subsidy has compounded their challenges, especially after the flood impact in 2022.
Residents of Yola also expressed their concerns over the delayed relief distribution, citing the recent incidents of food item looting in government storage facilities by some youth. This situation has prompted calls for expedited relief efforts
