States across Nigeria have exhibited varying responses to the N5 billion support fund pledged by the Federal Government to ameliorate the impact of the removal of petrol subsidy on the populace. While some states have confirmed receiving partial or full payments, others asserted not receiving any funds at all.
For instance, Kano, Nasarawa, and Benue governments acknowledged receiving N2 billion each, with Nasarawa adding an additional N1 billion worth of maize. In Adamawa, the government received the full N5 billion and established a committee to ensure equitable distribution. Sokoto confirmed receiving a portion of the promised amount, but the exact sum wasn’t disclosed.
In Niger State, reports suggest that N4 million had been received, and the remaining N1 million was earmarked for procuring assorted grains from the Federal Government later on. Ondo State, however, stated that it had not yet obtained the N5 billion.
Bago, the Governor of Niger State, declared that part of the money received would be utilized to enhance transportation systems in the state. Similarly, Diri of Bayelsa State affirmed his commitment to not sacrificing lives for political power, stressing the importance of people’s welfare.
Governor Zulum of Borno State confirmed receipt of the full N5 billion, which would be employed to acquire rice and maize. Yobe received four trucks of assorted food items as part of palliatives but did not provide information on the N5 billion grant.
Despite the divergent stances, the distribution of the N5 billion fund continues to be a matter of significant importance for various states across the country.