The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has begun distributing $906,205 (N1,449,928,000) in aid to Nigerian communities affected by the 2022 floods.
The distribution, which started in Adamawa State, aims to support recovery and resilience efforts in the most impacted regions.
According to a statement from ECOWAS on August 2, 2024, the aid will reach 3,500 households in Adamawa, Anambra, Kebbi, Kogi, Oyo, and Rivers states, in partnership with the Nigerian Red Cross and the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
In Adamawa, led by ECOWAS Program Officer for Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Godfrey Ameachi Alozie, aid included both food and cash transfers.
Each of the 1,000 selected households received N91,500 in cash, alongside essential food items such as rice, garri, beans, palm oil, and vegetable oil. Additionally, a debit card with N91,500 was provided to each household, with a monthly withdrawal limit of N30,500.
The distribution ceremony also featured the inauguration of a borehole to improve local access to clean water.
Mr. Alozie emphasized ECOWAS’s commitment to enhancing living conditions and ensuring no one is left behind.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. Abel Enitan, praised the initiative, noting the significant impact of the 2022 floods and the progress made with the support of ECOWAS and other partners.
Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, represented by Barrister Bello Diram, highlighted the choice of Adamawa as evidence of ECOWAS’s understanding of regional needs.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics and the World Bank, this aid is part of a broader response to the devastating floods, which caused estimated damages between $3.79 billion and $9.12 billion.
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