Seyi Tinubu, the son of Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, recently visited Maiduguri, Borno State, to provide aid to victims of the devastating flood that ravaged the city. Accompanied by his brother Yinka, friends, and associates, Seyi made a generous donation of over N500 million to support those affected. Seyi, known for his philanthropic efforts, especially towards youth empowerment, emphasized that this visit was just the beginning of his commitment to alleviating the suffering of young people impacted by the flood. He praised the resilience of the people of Borno State, who have faced numerous challenges in recent years, and expressed optimism that the state will emerge stronger from this tragedy. The donation included essential items such as food, medical supplies, and household necessities. Specifically, Seyi provided:

• Food Items: cartons of spaghetti, tomato paste, groundnut oil, salt, bags of flour, rice, maize, Maggie, thousands of loaves of bread, and other staples

• Medical Supplies: critical prescriptions for almost 50,000 children and adults, including anti-malarials, anti-hypertensives, antiparasitics, anti-diabetics, analgesics, and antibiotics

• Household Necessities: 10,000 pieces of mosquito nets, blankets, mattresses, kettles, wrappers, buckets, mats, sanitary pads, and wash kits.

Seyi’s efforts were commended by Mr. Chidi, a transport and logistics expert, and Isaac Balami, a renowned aviator, who praised his empathy and commitment to supporting young people. Seyi’s visit and donation demonstrate his dedication to helping those in need and promoting unity and strength in the face of adversity.

Flood Relief Efforts in Maiduguri

The flood, which submerged Maiduguri on September 10, following the collapse of spillways at the Alau dam, displaced thousands of households. The ravaging floods submerged residential quarters and farmlands, cut off roads, and displaced thousands of households in the ancient city.

President Bola Tinubu and other dignitaries had visited Borno state within the week in solidarity with its people. During his visit, President Tinubu had called on the private sector and individuals to step up in support of the communities affected. Inspired by his father’s call, Seyi and his team, through the Noella Foundation, mobilized resources to provide immediate relief to those in need.

Supporting the Victims

Seyi also stated that the team, in collaboration with the Noella Foundation, donated medical supplies, food, and non-food items to cater for 50,000 children and adults affected by the disaster. They also deployed 50 medical personnel drawn from the North-East states to assist the overstretched medical team in the state. “They are already on the ground, and they will remain with you for the next few days to help stabilize the situation,” said Seyi. “This is just the beginning, Your Excellency. I want to assure you that more help is on its way. As we speak, we are still mobilizing additional resources to support the recovery until every displaced person in the state has been given the opportunity to start their lives.”

A Collective Effort

Seyi emphasized that the intervention was a collective effort of young Nigerians to bring hope and relief to those affected by the flood. He said: “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.”

Recognizing Resilience

Seyi also recognized the resilience of the people of Borno State, who have faced numerous challenges in recent years. He said: “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.”

A Promise of Support

Speaking to Governor Zulum and other dignitaries who received him in the state government house, Seyi assured that the intervention would continue until Borno state, especially Maiduguri, sees the light again. He said, “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.”

A Unified Front

Responding, the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, appreciated Seyi and his team while promising that the donations would be used for the purpose they were meant for. He also commended the president and the First Lady Remi Tinubu, for their support to the victims of the flood disaster. “We remain grateful to the President and First Lady for their show of concern and support. Tell the President that the people of Borno highly appreciate him and are 100 per cent with him,” said Governor Zulum.

Seyi’s visit and donation highlight the importance of unity and support in times of crisis. His efforts, alongside the contributions of others, demonstrate the power of collective action in bringing relief and hope to those affected by disasters. Borno State, and indeed all of Nigeria, can draw strength and inspiration from this show of solidarity and commitment to rebuilding and healing.

A Call to Action

Seyi Tinubu’s visit to Maiduguri serves as a call to action for all Nigerians to come together and support those affected by the devastating flood. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply raising awareness, every contribution counts in helping to rebuild lives and communities. The Nigerian youth, as demonstrated by Seyi Tinubu, are ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with those in need, and their commitment serves as a reminder that in unity, there is strength. Let us all heed this call and work together to ensure that Borno State rises again.

A Legacy of Compassion

Seyi Tinubu’s commitment to philanthropy, especially towards youth empowerment, is a testament to his compassionate nature. His actions, both in Maiduguri and beyond, demonstrate his dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others. This legacy of compassion is one that should inspire future generations to embrace the values of unity, service, and hope. As Borno State rebuilds, Seyi Tinubu’s efforts stand as a beacon of hope and a reminder that together, we can overcome any challenge.