In a bold step to tackle the growing occurrence of natural disasters, President Bola Tinubu has unveiled a new Disaster Relief Fund.
The announcement followed the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held on Monday.
During a press briefing, Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, highlighted the urgent need for dedicated funding to address the increasing threats posed by climate change-induced disasters. He pointed to recent catastrophic flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State, which severely impacted nearly half of the city, causing loss of lives and extensive damage to key infrastructure.
Edun reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to securing financial support from key stakeholders to back the newly launched Disaster Relief Fund, ensuring the country is better equipped to handle future emergencies.
“This fund is not just a reaction to a single disaster; it is a forward-looking measure designed to prepare us for the escalating challenges of our changing climate,” Edun noted, emphasizing the importance of sustained funding to meet these emerging crises.
The meeting was attended by key figures, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the President’s Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. Most of the newly appointed ministers were also present.
