The Borno State Government has taken decisive action in response to a humanitarian crisis that recently garnered widespread attention on social media, particularly through a viral post on Facebook.
The post highlighted the desperate situation of a family in the Bayan Texaco area of Maiduguri, who were battling acute malnutrition and other severe health challenges.
Upon becoming aware of the family’s plight, the Borno State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development promptly mobilized resources to provide the necessary aid.
The Honorable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, personally took charge of the relief efforts, ensuring that the family received immediate and comprehensive assistance, on Sunday.
The family’s condition was dire, marked by significant health challenges, particularly among the children.
Three of the children were suffering from severe vision problems, with one child having already undergone eye surgery in Kaduna.
Malnutrition had further exacerbated their health issues, making the situation even more critical.
In response to the urgent need, the Borno State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, implemented a robust support package to aid the family’s recovery.
This package included essential food items such as a 50 kg bag of rice, a 50 kg bag of Garin Masara (maize flour), a 50 kg bag of Garin Bisk (a local flour blend), a carton of detergent, 25 liters of cooking oil, five mattresses, five blankets, a carton of Vaseline, and several sachets of Maggi seasoning.
Additionally, the family was provided with a cash donation of N20,000 to help them with immediate financial needs.
The father of the family, who had previously lost his business due to the overwhelming costs of treating his children, had been unable to afford rent, forcing the family to move into an unfinished, dilapidated building.
Recognizing the need for a stable living environment, the government also took the initiative to secure a rented apartment for the family in the Shuwari 5 area.
This new accommodation aims to provide a safe and conducive environment for the family’s recovery and rehabilitation.
The swift intervention by the government has drawn significant public attention, with various individuals, groups, and associations stepping forward to offer additional support to the family.
The family has expressed profound gratitude to the Borno State Governor, Professor Engr. Babagana Umara Zulum, and the Honourable Commissioner, Hajiya Zuwaira Gambo, for their timely and compassionate response to their situation.
The government’s actions have not only addressed the immediate crisis but have also set a precedent for community support and government responsiveness in times of need.
