IMF Suggests Cash Transfer Programme for Borno Flood Victims

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

The Nigerian government has been advised to sustain its cash transfer system, and particularly support the Borno flood victims with the funds.

At a press briefing on Thursday, the Director of the Communications Department of the global lender, Ms Julie Kazack, said the programme, which has been marred with controversies, is needed more than ever following the flood that ravaged Maiduguri, Borno State last weekend.

“From our perspective, what is important is for the government to continue to roll out the cash transfer system.

“This is really important to provide relief to affected households, and given the nature of this crisis, it will require broadening this cash transfer system to cover people in rural areas as well,” she said at the meeting.

The IMF condoled with the Nigerian government over the flood, which displaced several persons and destroyed some properties.

“With respect to the ongoing floods, our thoughts are with the Nigerian people, especially those that are most affected by the devastating floods that occurred from exceptionally heavy rains.

“This has occurred in a situation where already 31 million Nigerians are affected by food insecurity and the floods are obviously creating substantial challenges, particularly in the affected areas.

“The authorities in Nigeria are providing support to affected individuals and communities at the local level,” the senior IMF staff said.

Business Post reports that the Governor of Borno State, Mr Babagana Zulum, claimed that about one million were affected by the devastating flood.

There have been reports that over 400,000 people have been displaced and another 30 killed by the flood in Maiduguri, the state capital almost totally submerged in water.