His appointment follows the deadly and devastating floods in the northern region last month that left at least 15 dead and caused billions of euros in damage to property, crops and infrastructure.
Confirming earlier reports, government sources said there is majority agreement on the choice of Figliuolo, after the floods that hit Emilia Romagna and part of Marche and Tuscany at the beginning of May.
His leadership and expertise will be crucial in overseeing the reconstruction efforts, ensuring the efficient allocation of resources, and coordinating the recovery process.
It will require particular focus on infrastructure restoration, rehabilitation of damaged properties and support for affected farmers and businesses.
The go-ahead for the appointment came along with a decree law with urgent provisions for the reconstruction of the territories affected by the floods on the agenda.
Potenza-born Figliuolo, 61, commander of the Inter-Forces Summit Operations Command, served as Extraordinary Commissioner for the COVID-19 Emergency from March 2021 to March 2022.
Appointed by then Prime Minister Mario Draghi, Figliuolo organised the implementation of the vaccination campaign and was widely praised for his steady hand during a perilous time for the country.
ANSA
