Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has distributed food items to 18,000 families in Dikwa following a devastating bird strike that destroyed farmlands across the area.
The distribution took place at the outer premises of the Shehu of Dikwa’s palace, where thousands of residents gathered to receive emergency relief.
The incident, caused by a massive invasion of quelea birds and other pests, wiped out farmlands that over 90 percent of the community relies on for their livelihoods.
Governor Zulum, who supervised the exercise on Monday, said the intervention was necessary to avert a looming food crisis and support farmers whose crops were destroyed.
He explained that his administration is implementing stronger measures to protect agriculture, including pest control strategies to prevent future losses.
“The last time we distributed food in Dikwa was about 18 months ago. Because of improved security, people resumed farming, so we reduced humanitarian distribution by 90 percent,” Zulum stated.
“But this morning, we came to support them because of last year’s drought and the pest invasion that affected their farmlands and reduced their harvest,” he added.
The governor commended residents for continuing their farming efforts despite the setbacks and assured them of ongoing government support.
Zulum also announced the distribution of ₦350m to 35,000 women as part of the emergency assistance.
Each woman received ₦10,000 in cash and a wrapper, while every male head of household received two bags of rice and sorghum.
