In an effort to alleviate the impact of subsidy removal on its citizens, the Kano State Government initiated the distribution of 52,000 bags of rice and 52,000 bags of maize to the most vulnerable individuals residing across the 44 local government areas within the state.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf officially commenced the distribution and emphasized the importance of integrity among the committee members responsible for overseeing this initiative. He cautioned against any form of misappropriation, underlining that the food items were designated for specific individuals. He explicitly stated that committee members, journalists, security personnel, and civil servants are not eligible to benefit from these palliatives.
The distribution of these essential food items aims to mitigate the challenges posed by the removal of subsidies and provide relief to the masses enduring the consequences of this policy change.
Governor Yusuf further explained that this marks the second distribution of such items to vulnerable groups residing in the state’s 484 wards across the 44 local government areas. The distribution committee, consisting of community and religious leaders, among others, has been entrusted with the task of ensuring that the items reach their intended beneficiaries.
Under this initiative, each ward will receive 400 bags of 10 kg of rice, along with 991,000 bags of maize. The recipients include Tsangaya and Islamiyya schools, Tori homes, individuals with special needs, junior civil servants, widows, and orphans.
Governor Yusuf also revealed plans to launch empowerment programs for 5,000 women, youths, and individuals with special needs every month. Additionally, the government intends to introduce Amana Buses and Taxis for distribution to the youth, further contributing to economic empowerment and opportunities within the state.
Dr. Abdullahi Baffa Bichi, Chairman of the Palliative Compliance Committee and Secretary to the State Government, commended the governor’s dedication and goodwill. He revealed that due to the governor’s passion for this initiative, they had added 99 truckloads of rice to the 50 provided by the Federal Government. Furthermore, they procured an additional 72 trucks of maize, augmenting the 11 trucks sent by the Federal Government to ensure that the poorest of the poor receive the much-needed assistance.
This distribution of food palliatives represents the government’s commitment to alleviating the challenges faced by its most vulnerable citizens during a period of significant policy change.