Kebbi State Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, on Sunday visited the Kara Timber Market in Birnin Kebbi to assess damages following a devastating fire outbreak that occurred earlier that day.
Representing Governor Nasir Idris, the Deputy Governor met with affected timber merchants to express the state government's sympathy and deliver initial financial support to help them begin recovery efforts.
Extent of Damage and Government Response
According to Alhaji Bello Dansabo, Chairman of the timber merchants' association, nine traders were affected by the inferno, with estimated losses exceeding N191.7 million. The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Sunday, destroyed multiple shops and large quantities of timber stock.
During the visit, Senator Tafida announced an initial intervention of N10 million from the state government to assist the affected traders. Dansabo acknowledged this gesture, stating that it would help the merchants begin to rebuild their businesses.
"We are grateful for the government's quick response and this initial support," Dansabo said. "While our losses are substantial, this assistance will help us start the recovery process."
Official Delegation and Further Appeals
The Deputy Governor was accompanied by several government officials, including the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Yakubu Ahmed Birnin Kebbi; Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Muhammed Dangi Juli; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Abubakar Ahmed; and the General Manager of Birnin Kebbi Central Market.
Despite the government's initial intervention, affected traders have continued to appeal for additional assistance, emphasizing the scale of their losses and the challenges they face in restoring their livelihoods.
BenriNews earlier reported that emergency responders had been dispatched to the scene when the fire broke out, but significant damage had already occurred before the flames could be contained.
The state government has promised to review the situation further and consider additional measures to support the affected merchants in the coming days.
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