Lagos State government on Wednesday donated N50 million each to Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states to assist them in the rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North-East.
The governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, presented cheques to the benefiting state governments at the briefing room of the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, after the Council of State’s meeting.
“Lagos State views insurgency and natural disasters as hardships that leave traumatic experiences. We commisserate with the three northern states and share the pains and discomfort of our brothers and sisters.
“We also commend our President for the renewed commitment of the Federal Government to bringing insurgency to a logical conclusion by the year end.
“Our security agencies also deserve commendation for their gallantry, courage and resolve to ensure that the directives of Mr. President and indeed the wishes of all Nigerians is achieved.
“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.
“It is therefore in demonstration of our commitment towards bringing succour and relief to thousands of the IDPs that we present this donation of N50 million each to the governments of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states.’’
At the brief ceremony, the governor said there was no gainsaying the fact that the emergence of Boko Haram and its devastating activities was a single challenge facing the nation.
According to him, though the insurgence is basically limited to the North-Eastern part of Nigeria, the effect is felt everywhere across the states of the federation.
The governor recalled that at the just-concluded 21st National Economic Summit in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation presented what he called a graphic and heart-rending report of the extent of damage and social trauma brought about by insurgency in the region.
He added: “Lagos State views insurgency and natural disasters as hardships that leave traumatic experiences.
“We commisserate with the three northern states and share the pains and discomfort of our brothers and sisters.
“We also commend our President for the renewed commitment of the Federal Government to bringing insurgency to a logical conclusion by the year end.
“Our security agencies also deserve commendation for their gallantry, courage and resolve to ensure that the directive of Mr. President and indeed the wish of all Nigerians is achieved.
“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.
“It is, therefore, in demonstration of our commitment towards bringing succour and relief to thousands of the IDPs that we present this donation of N50 million each to the governments of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States,’’ he said.
The governor called on all Nigerians including corporate organisations and other public spirited individuals to reach out at this time and alleviate the pains of the IDPs.
Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State, who responded on behalf of the two other governors, thanked Ambode and the people of the state for the gesture.
He assured that the funds would be judiciously used for the purpose for which it was donated.
“On behalf of the governments of Adamawa, Borno and Yobe States, we register our profound gratitude for the empathy and support shown by the government and people of Lagos State under the leadership of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode in this our hours of need.
“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.’’
