JUST IN: Federal Government Approves N5bn Subsidy Relief, Rice Allocation for States
By Kasim Isa Muhammad
Kanempress
17th August 2023
In a recent development, the National Economic Council (NEC) has confirmed the allocation of an N5 billion grant to each of the 36 states across Nigeria.
The funds are designated for the purchase of essential grains, accompanied by a provision of five truckloads of rice for every state.
Kanempress noted that these measures aim to alleviate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal on citizens.
Furthermore, NEC has greenlit the dispersal of 40,000 bags of maize to be shared among the states.
It has also instructed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide food supplies to states that share borders with Niger Republic due to the ongoing political turmoil in that nation.
The decisions were reached during the NEC meeting, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Meanwhile, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, speaking to the press after the meeting, emphasized that the allocation of N5 billion and rice trucks form a temporary solution to address the rising cost of living caused by the subsidy removal.
He highlighted that the government is concurrently pursuing more lasting programs to address the situation.
Zulum clarified that the states will use the allocated funds to procure 100,000 bags of rice and beans, alongside other necessary items.
Moreover, NEC has mandated NEMA to ensure food distribution to states sharing borders with the Niger Republic.
On his part, Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State added that the revision of the social register is currently underway.
He also revealed that Nigeria is receiving refugees from the Niger Republic, which has affected the equitable distribution of relief items.
However, Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani pointed out that thus far, only N2 billion has been disbursed to states, contrary to the initially approved N5 billion.
