The Federal Government has delivered a significant consignment of 42,000 metric tonnes of various food items to the Zamfara State government. This move is aimed at mitigating the economic difficulties faced by the people of the state.
The distribution is set to benefit religious organizations and boarding schools, providing much-needed relief amid ongoing hardships.
This initiative forms part of the federal government’s larger plan to combat food insecurity and economic challenges across Nigeria, especially in regions severely impacted by conflict and other socio-economic issues.
The Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), represented by Zonal Director Audu Ishaya, officially handed over the food items to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal in Gusau, the state capital.
During the handover, Ishaya urged the state government to implement proactive measures against potential flooding.
The consignment includes 6,160 bags of 50kg maize, 12,040 bags of 50kg sorghum, and 2,520 bags of 50kg millet, all of which are intended for distribution to the less privileged across Zamfara’s fourteen local government areas.
Dr. Ishaya Chinoko, another representative of NEMA, revealed that the President has instructed that 20% of the food items designated for each local government area be allocated to Ja’amatu Nasril Islam (JNI) and the Christian Association Of Nigeria (CAN). Additionally, 3% of the supplies are earmarked for boarding schools within these areas.
Chinoko also highlighted the 2023 rainfall prediction, which indicates that from April through June, 25 states and 72 local government areas are at high risk of flooding. This vulnerability is expected to continue from July to September, potentially affecting 33 states and 135 local government areas.
Governor Dauda Lawal expressed his gratitude for the federal government’s support, acknowledging that this aid arrives at a crucial juncture. The residents of Zamfara are currently grappling with significant challenges due to bandit activities and the impact of new economic policies. Lawal emphasized that this distribution will provide vital assistance to those in need, helping to alleviate some of the pressures faced by the community.
The federal government’s intervention is a critical step in addressing the immediate needs of Zamfara’s residents while also highlighting the importance of ongoing support and proactive measures to handle future challenges. This substantial food aid is expected to offer significant relief, particularly to the most vulnerable populations within the state.
