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Maiduguri Flooding: Zulum Calls for Support, Insists Recovery is Not Government’s Responsibility Alone
Maiduguri Flooding: Zulum Calls for Support, Insists Recovery is Not Government’s Responsibility Alone
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zul has called for the support to overcome the recent flooding of the state capital Maiduguri and environs, insisting that recovery from such a disaster cannot be the government’s responsibility alone and that it requires the collective effort of all stakeholders.
Zulum made the appeal at the statewide broadcast on the flood disaster that struck Maiduguri and its environs, leaving over half of the ancient city of Maiduguri submerged in water.
Zulum said: “In the past few days, we have witnessed devastating floods in a way that many of us have never experienced before. Streets, homes, offices and businesses have been submerged, and unquantifiable property have been lost. Countless lives have now been turned upside down. The impact of this disaster has been profound, and is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that we face in our environment.
“As your Governor, I want to express my deepest empathy to everyone who has been affected in one way or another. I understand the pain, loss, and uncertainty that many of us are going through. We stand together in solidarity, and I assure you that your government is committed to doing everything possible to aid those in need.”
He added that: “The magnitude of the destruction from this devastating flood cannot yet be quantified until the water has receded and on-the-spot assessments have been conducted.
“We shall constitute a multi-stakeholder committee to undertake a sector-by-sector assessment of the losses to guide the recovery and rebuilding process.
However, recovery from such a disaster cannot be the government’s responsibility alone. It requires the collective effort of all stakeholders. Today, I am appealing to everyone – community leaders, business owners, non-governmental organisations (national and international), and our esteemed wealthy individuals, to come together in support of our brothers and sisters who are suffering.
Unity has always been our strength in Borno. In times like this, we must harness that strength and show empathy and compassion to each other.”
He revealed that: “We are working closely with various federal government agencies, civil society organisations, and the Nigerian military to ensure that relief efforts are streamlined and effective. I invite and encourage other stakeholders to collaborate with our agencies to identify the best ways of providing assistance. Together, we can create a robust response plan that would address not only immediate needs but also long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.”
He added that: “Borno has always been known for its resilience and we need to strongly rely on this to rebound from this disaster. Our recovery process will require collective innovative thinking and commitment to rebuild lost infrastructure, and homes. Government is open to constructive ideas from everyone on how we can fortify our state against future disasters. We shall leverage on this calamity as an opportunity to invest in sustainable practices and infrastructure that can withstand the forces of nature.”
Maiduguri Flooding: Zulum Calls for Support, Insists Recovery is Not Government’s Responsibility Alone
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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