Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State on Thursday initiated the disbursement of ₦2.93 billion in cash support to 35,500 beneficiaries, including flood victims, vulnerable individuals, and small business owners. The initiative, themed “Governor Buni’s Grassroots Recovery and Empowerment,” aims to promote sustainable livelihoods across the state.
The disbursement ceremony took place at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Damaturu, where Governor Buni reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving the well-being of residents through economic empowerment and wealth creation. He highlighted that the program complements earlier skills acquisition and empowerment initiatives, which have contributed significantly to recovery efforts and sustainable livelihoods.
The governor emphasized the importance of small and medium-scale enterprises in driving economic growth and prosperity. He underscored his administration’s dedication to revitalizing commerce, industries, and infrastructure to create a conducive environment for economic activities. The establishment of the Ministry of Wealth Creation, Empowerment, and Employment Generation, he noted, is a key strategy to provide incentives for business growth and stability in the state.
Governor Buni pledged continued support for women, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups. He also reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives like free education, affordable healthcare, technological advancements, and economic incentives aimed at empowering the less privileged for broader economic development.
The governor urged beneficiaries to use the financial support responsibly, noting that judicious use of the funds would inspire the government to extend similar assistance to more people in the ongoing fight against poverty.
Dr. Mairo Ahmad Amshi, Commissioner of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, praised the initiative for addressing the economic impact of the recent flood disaster and providing aid to the vulnerable. She noted that the program aligns with Governor Buni’s strategic focus on improving the quality of life for flood victims across the state’s 17 local government areas.
Dr. Amshi further announced plans under the Renewed Hope Initiative, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Remi Tinubu, for the construction of an early childcare development education center in the state. This effort is expected to further boost the quality of life and education for the state’s youngest residents.
Executive Secretaries of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Small and Medium Enterprises Agency, Dr. Muhammad Goje and Alhaji Muhammad Alkali, commended Governor Buni’s administration for its unwavering support of vulnerable individuals and its dedication to recovery and empowerment efforts.
