The Nigerian Government has approved a ₦450 million relief package for 18 business owners whose shops were destroyed in the fire at Calabar Mall, popularly known as SPAR Mall.
First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, announced the intervention on Friday during a visit to Calabar, saying President Bola Tinubu approved ₦25 million for each affected business owner to help them recover from the losses.
She also disclosed that ₦50 million was presented to the Wife of the Cross River State Governor, Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, for women’s groups, while another ₦15 million was given to women who welcomed her to the state, bringing the total intervention to ₦515 million.
“Mr President commiserates with the government and people of Cross River over this unfortunate incident that destroyed many businesses and livelihoods.
“This intervention is to provide immediate support and help victims recover from their losses” Tinubu said.
The relief followed the August 22 fire outbreak at the mall, which destroyed several businesses and properties valued at billions of naira.
Governor Bassey Otu expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the First Lady, describing the package as timely support for affected business owners as they work to rebuild their livelihoods.
