Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, has made a significant donation of 500 million Naira to support the victims of the devastating flood in Maiduguri, which affected 70 percent of the city and displaced millions of residents.
Accompanied by his brother, friends, and associates, Seyi visited Maiduguri on Friday to extend his sympathy to those impacted by the disaster.
During his visit, Seyi emphasized that this was the initial step in their ongoing efforts to alleviate the challenging circumstances faced by the flood victims, particularly the youth.
He assured that their support would persist until Maiduguri and Borno State recover fully from the catastrophe.
In a statement delivered at the state government house, where he was received by Governor Babagana Zulum and other prominent dignitaries, Seyi commended the resilience of the Borno people, who have withstood numerous adversities, including the prolonged insecurity that plagued the region in previous years.
He expressed optimism that the current situation would also be overcome, leaving the state stronger and more united.
He stated, “We are here today, not just as representatives of our family but as members of a collective effort of young Nigerians to bring hope and relief to those who need it most. This is a moment for solidarity, compassion, and immediate action.
“Maiduguri and Borno State have rich histories. The people are resilient. Despite the issues of the past few years, they have braved all odds which is why such a painful national tragedy that befell the state deserves our collective effort, support and prayers. Even more, it deserves our active collaboration and contributions.”
Seyi’s visit was inspired by his father, President Bola Tinubu, who earlier in the week called for increased private sector involvement and individual contributions to support the affected communities. Inspired by this call to action, Seyi, along with his wife Layal through the Noella Foundation, his brother Yinka, friends, and various private sector partners, mobilized resources to address the immediate needs of those displaced by the flood.
“When my dad, President Bola Tinubu, visited Maiduguri earlier this week, he spoke about the urgent need for the private sector and individuals alike to step up in support of the communities affected. Inspired by his call, my wife Layal, and I through the Noella Foundation, my brother Yinka, our friends, and numerous private sector partners have joined hands to respond swiftly to the needs of those displaced by this tragedy,” he said.
In addition to the monetary donation, Seyi’s team provided 10,000 pieces of essential items including mosquito nets, blankets, mattresses, kettles, wrappers, buckets, mats, sanitary pads, and wash kits.
They also distributed critical medical supplies to cover the prescriptions of nearly 50,000 individuals, including antimalarials, anti-hypertensives, antiparasitics, anti-diabetics, analgesics, and antibiotics.
Expressing his appreciation to Governor Zulum for his dedicated leadership during the crisis, Seyi said, “I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to Governor Zulum for his tireless leadership during this time of crisis and to everyone working around the clock to ensure these supplies reach the families who need them most.
“Your Excellency, distinguished leaders, and the resilient people of Borno State, in times of hardship, it is our shared responsibility to stand together. These medical supplies, survival kits, and food items we have brought today are our little gesture of solidarity and compassion, knowing that no amount of aid can replace the lives and homes affected by this devastating flood.
“However, we hope this small contribution brings comfort and relief to those in need. Together, we can rebuild and heal, for in unity, there is strength. The Nigerian youth stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Borno. We are in this together and our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Just like President Bola Tinubu said on Monday, Borno will rise again.”
Governor Zulum, in his response, expressed his gratitude to Seyi Tinubu and his team, promising that the donations would be utilized effectively to support the flood victims and aid the ongoing recovery efforts in the state.