Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has flagged off a scholarship scheme worth three hundred million Naira, in support of 300 orphans, whose parents died as volunteers, under the ‘Civilian Joint Task Force, (CJTF),’ vigilantes and hunters.
The volunteers were involved in fighting Boko Haram and ISWAP, side by side with the Nigerian military, and other forces in Borno State.
Zulum at the launch at the Government House in Maiduguri, said the N300m set aside, was to cover all educational needs of the 300 orphans, throughout their basic education level, before further support at future levels of education.
Zulum had during his 2020 budget presentation, promised support for the orphans, under the “Borno Heroes Support Programme”.
Besides the scholarship, Governor Zulum also approved livelihood support of at least, N15m to mothers, and other guardians of the 300 orphans.
He said, “Each of the 300 mothers or guardians will receive N50,000 along with a bag of rice, a bag of maize and clothing materials.”
The Chairman of the committee set up by Zulum for the selection of the 300 orphans, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan and the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Christopher Musa, lauded Governor Zulum’s initiative.
Kaka Shehu who is currently APC’s candidate for the Borno Central Senatorial Seat, ahead of the 2023 election, was appointed while he was Commissioner for Justice, whose ministry oversees the affairs of the volunteers.
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Also during the launch, Governor Zulum announced a 35% increase in the monthly allowances paid to the volunteers.
The allowances were raised from 20,000 to 30,000 Naira monthly.
Zulum had in June 2019, increased the allowance from 15,000 to 20,000 Naira, and changed the payment system, from table to individual account.
Governor Zulum also approved an end-of-the-year bonus for all the volunteers.
(Editor: Ifeanyi Mark)
