ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has welcomed a significant delivery of food aid from the Federal government, aimed at alleviating the economic hardships facing its citizens. The consignment, comprising 19,500 bags of maize and 4,700 bags of garri, underscores efforts to mitigate the impact of the current economic downturn, echoing the renewed optimism articulated by President Bola Tinubu.
Dr. Kingsley Emu, the Secretary to the State Government, expressed gratitude for the timely intervention, emphasizing its importance in supporting vulnerable groups within the state. However, he noted that while appreciative of the gesture, the quantity falls short of meeting the needs of the intended beneficiaries.
In a bid to address broader economic challenges, Dr. Emu highlighted proactive measures taken by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration. These include disbursement of over N5.6 billion to settle promotion arrears for civil servants, employment of more than 2,000 teaching and non-teaching staff in schools, and initiatives aimed at bolstering the capacity of various workforce segments.
Acknowledging the limitations of short-term relief, Dr. Emu underscored the state’s commitment to implementing medium to long-term interventions. He emphasized the government’s dedication to fulfilling its social contract with the people, citing ongoing infrastructure development, job creation, and efforts to enhance the livelihoods of artisans across the state’s 25 Local Government Areas.
Regarding the distribution of the food aid, Dr. Emu, who chairs the palliative committee, assured transparency and accountability in the process. He reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards manipulation, citing penalties imposed on erring officials to uphold integrity in the distribution exercise.
Representing the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr. Brandon Ibarakumor conveyed the federal government’s commitment to supporting Delta State during these challenging times. The consignment, dispatched from the National Strategic Reserve under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, underscores a broader national directive to alleviate food insecurity across the country.
The food aid is slated for distribution to beneficiaries across all electoral wards within Delta State’s 25 local government areas, with an emphasis on ensuring equitable access to those most in need.
