Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, has enjoined people of the state to take proactive measures to mitigate the effects of natural disaster on lives and property.
AbdulRazaq made the plea at the commencement of the distribution of relief materials for 2,300 victims of a rainstorm in Ilorin.
Speaking through his Deputy, Mr Kayode Alabi, he said that such proactive measures include tree planting, clearing of drainage channels and engagement of professional builders, among others.
The governor assured them that his administration would never abandon people of the state in time of their needs.
He cited the recent state government’s interventions in Moro, Edu and Patigi Local Government areas, as well as victims of #Endsars protest.
AbdulRazaq said it was evidence that the state government was irrevocably committed to supporting the people, irrespective of their party or religion affiliations.
“We will never abandon our people. We will always come through for them within available resources and in the most transparent and dignified manner possible.
“Whatever we give is only to show our concern to the plights and wellbeing of our people; it is a demonstration of our resolves to stand by them.
“We, therefore, urge our people to replicate our responsive and transparent leadership with more support for our efforts for a society founded on sincerity and good brotherliness,” he said.
The governor commended members of the committee for their good works.
Earlier, Chairperson of the committee, Hajia Habibat Yusuf, explained that the exercise was the final phase of the government’s financial assistance to victims of the rainstorm in Ilorin West, Ilorin East, Ilorin South and some parts in Asa Local Government areas of the state.
Yusuf said that the state government had earlier distributed relief materials such as roofing sheets and nails to cushion the effect of the disaster, which was followed by financial support.
She said 300 victims would receive N100, 000 each; 500 victims would receive N50, 000 each, while 1,500 victims would receive N25, 000 each.
Yusuf thanked the state government for its confidence in the committee.
She counselled the beneficiaries to cultivate the habit of tree planting, desist from indiscriminate tree felling and use of quality building materials to prevent damage from rainstorms.