By Gabriel Ewepu
ABUJA – A nonprofit organization, Seyi Vodi Foundation, weekend, donated N10 million naira to support Borno State government in its efforts to recover from the devastating floods that recently hit the State.
This was made known by the The Chairman, Seyi Vodi Foundation, Seyi Adekunle, who said it was aimed at fast-tracking the rehabilitation and rebuilding process of communities adversely affected by the flood disaster, that threw thousands of people homeless and killed many.
During his visit along with his team including Engr. Bamidele Usman, Chairman, BMU Construction, partners and friends to Maiduguri, he expressed sadness and sympathized with the people of the State, and commended the Governor of Borno State, Prof Babagana Zulum and his team for the ongoing recovery efforts.
He also said that the Foundation would seek additional donations to further support the rebuilding efforts.
Meanwhile, the team also visited the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Umar-Ibn Garbai, and donated N2 million, and also visited the Nigerian Police Force Barracks, where he (Adekunle) grew up, where, he announced scholarships for 31 children, covering their education from primary school to university.
In an emotional speech, he (Adekunle), who had spent his childhood in the state, spoke about his personal connection to Borno.
He said: “Borno holds a special place in my heart, as it is where I grew up and attended school.
”It is deeply saddening to witness the challenges faced by the state, especially following the collapse of the dam that triggered the flooding.
“We are all aware of the impact the flooding has had on the people of Borno, but I have also seen their strength.
“I am committed to supporting the recovery process and contributing to initiatives that uplift the people.”
Meanwhile, he assured on the Foundation’s continue support and collaboration with the State government, and also added that his Foundation would mobilise support from its network, both within Nigeria and abroad, to assist with ongoing recovery efforts.
“We will stand by you until the state is fully restored. You can count on us to be your partner in rebuilding Borno”, he said.
Meanwhile, the Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum, expressed gratitude for the donation and assured that the funds would be judiciously utilized with transparency to ameliorate the plight of the victims.
“The donation we have received is quite handy, and Insha’Allah, we shall make good use of it for our rebuilding efforts.
“We will continue to show our gratitude and appreciation, including prayers for all those who made sacrifices during our trial time.
“Be assured that we shall continue this relationship beyond today”, he said.
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