Elder statesman and business magnate, Alhaji Aminu Dantata has visited Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state, which was ravaged by deadly flooding that killed dozens of residents and rendered over a million more homeless.
Daily News 24 reports that Maiduguri was submerged by the intense flood waters, which was caused by continuous rainfall and the overflow of Alau Dam, the state’s main dam.
Alhaji Dantata, 96, visited Maiduguri on Tuesday, where he made a generous donation of N1.5 billion to the victims.
The philanthropist also expressed condolences to Governor Babagana Zulum as well as the government and the people of the state.
Alhaji Dantata, was quoted to have called on Nigeria’s elite and political leaders to fear Allah, while expressing concern over the country’s declining economic fortunes, which have plunged millions of citizens into poverty.
In his remarks, Mr Zulum said Borno people were grateful for the “compassionate visit”, describing it as a “powerful beacon of hope and solidarity during the trying times.”
“The people of Borno deeply appreciate this show of humanity by a 96-year-old to visit us. Let me say it, Our Baba has donated the sum of N1.5 billion to support the flood victims. May Allah bless and reward you with Aljannah. Mu gode, Baba,” Zulum said.
Also read: Gov. Yusuf urges unified approach to tackling Borno flood crisis
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) had said that at least 36 persons were killed in the disaster while almost 1 million residents were displaced.
On Monday, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also visited Maiduguri to assess the damage done by the floods and assured victims of the federal government’s support.
Earlier, Africa’s richest man Alhaji Aliko Dangote had also paid a visit to Maidguri, where he also made a donation of N1.5 billion to assist those affected by the disaster.
