****Supports Widows, Farmers, and Displaced Families
The Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS)** has disbursed over N304 million to 5,000 vulnerable flood victims in Jigawa State, bringing much-needed relief to communities devastated by the 2024 flood disaster.
Speaking at the distribution flag-off in Auyo town, the President of NRCS, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga, emphasized that the initiative targets the **most vulnerable groups, including widows, people living with disabilities, child-headed households, pregnant mothers, and displaced families.
Adeaga explained that the 5,000 beneficiaries were drawn from Auyo, Kirikasamma, and Malam-Madori local government areas.
The financial assistance was allocated as follows: 3,000 families received N150 million for agricultural support to enhance their farm yields, 2,000 families received N154 million in direct cash assistance.
“This initiative is not just about numbers but it is about restoring hope and rebuilding lives.
Across 13 states, we have validated 11,500 beneficiaries as part of the Flood Emergency Appeal 2024, ensuring targeted support for those in greatest need,” Adeaga said.
The NRCS anticipatory flood response project was designed to assess and register communities before disasters strike, allowing for a more efficient relief process. In Jigawa, early assessments ensured that vulnerable communities in Auyo, Kirikasamma, and Malam Madori were prioritized for aid distribution.
Adeaga further disclosed that this was phase one of a nationwide exercise that will continue in 2025, covering 11,500 validated beneficiaries across Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Edo, Enugu, Kebbi, Kwara, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara states.
Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Zubaida Umar, praised the initiative, describing it as a testament to the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting disaster-affected communities. Represented by Dr. Nuraddeen Abdullahi, Umar highlighted the critical role of the Red Cross in complementing public authorities in humanitarian response.
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, represented by Dr. Muhammad Bello, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Special Duties, expressed appreciation for the support, stating that the intervention would ease the suffering of victims and help restore their livelihoods.
The NRCS Jigawa Branch Chairman, Mr. Bala Chamo, detailed the local allocation to include1,200 beneficiaries from Auyo
, 2,000 from Malam Madori and 1,800 from Kirikasamma
Under the scheme, 3,000 beneficiaries received N50,000 each for agricultural support, 2,000 beneficiaries received N77,000 each as direct cash assistance.
Chairman of Auyo Local Government Council, Bilya Ahmed, lauded the initiative, describing it as a lifeline for struggling families.
Grateful beneficiaries, including Hajiya Duniya Manu and Jafaru, thanked the Red Cross for the assistance, pledging to use the funds wisely to rebuild their lives.
This large-scale humanitarian effort reaffirms the Red Cross’ commitment to aiding Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations, ensuring that relief reaches those who need it most.