Insurgency: Lagos donates N150m to Adamawa, Borno, Yobe

Lagos State Wednesday donated N50 million each to Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states, to assist in catering for thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Presenting the cheques to the governors of the states, in a short ceremony after the Council of States meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode said there was no denying the fact of the damage meted out to citizens in the North Eastern part of the country since the emergence of Boko Haram.

He recalled that at the just-concluded 21st National Economic Summit in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation presented a graphic and heart-rending report depicting the extent of damage and social trauma brought about by insurgency in the region.

“Notwithstanding the hard times resulting from the current economic situation, we have resolved to show leadership and compassion to the plight of our brothers and sisters in North-Eastern Nigeria.

“We use this opportunity to call on all Nigerians, including corporate organisations and other public spirited individuals, to reach out at this time and alleviate the pains of our compatriots in this part of Nigeria,” Ambode said.

Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State, who responded on behalf of the two other state governors, thanked Ambode and the people of Lagos for the gesture, assuring the governor that the funds would be put to judicious use for the purpose for which it was donated.

He said: “I believe that when the history of this event will be written, the name of Lagos will be mentioned in gold for identifying with us and showing empathy to our people in our hours of need. Every problem comes with its own opportunities for national regeneration and reintegration.”

The governor recalled that the governor of Ebonyi State had on October 13 donated 1000 bags of rice and 1000 pieces of clothing items to the IDPs, despite its lean financial resources.

“Lagos is the big heart, the big brother caps it all with this donation. Be rest assured that this fund will be channelled to the right courses. We are going to utilise these funds for the benefit of our IDPs and of course, our people that are returning to their homes and villages.

“It is gratifying to note that the governor of Abia State has also offered to come to Maiduguri.

“Indeed, we are living in interesting times in this country. Times like this call for national unity and cohesion. We have to form a single force to confront the security challenges that is confronting us. We will remain eternally indebted to you and the people of the state,” he said.