By Thompson Yamput
Gov. Usman Ododo of Kogi on Monday flagged off another round of distribution of food palliatives to the residents of the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the distribution exercise is in continuation of Ododo administration’s commitment to cushion the impact of economic downturn on the people.
Inaugurating the exercise, Ododo said the food items were from the strategic grain reserve of the Federal Government.
Represented by his deputy, Joel Oyibo, the governor said the gesture underscored the shared understanding by all tiers of government of the challenges faced by Nigerians due to the prevailing economic crunch.
“My administration considers it a duty and privilege to be leading collective efforts to provide relief to those who are most in need of succour in all the corners of Kogi State
“The distribution of the palliatives is in line with the commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu, to respond in a most decisive fashion to pressing need for interventions to cushion the effect of difficulties faced by Nigerians.
“Therefore, the government and people of Kogi will continue to support programmes and policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President.
“This is because the provision of grains to cushion the effects of economic hardship in the state is a testament to the unwavering commitment of his administration to the welfare of every citizen, especially in times of adversity,” he said.
The governor lauded Tinubu for his unprecedented display of compassion and solidarity in approving the distribution of grains from the strategic reserve to feed the people.
He added: “This round of food palliatives which has maize, millet, sorghum and Garri are meant for vulnerable members of all communities in the 21 local government areas of the state.”
Ododo said that a committee has been set up to monitor and supervise the distribution exercise, warning that government would not condone diversion.
While commending the people of the state for their contribution to the prevailing peace and security, Ododo urged them to continue to support the government’s efforts to ease the difficulties occasioned by rising cost of living.
He also commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the state Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the state Social Investment Programme Agency, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), distribution committee members and security agencies for their roles. NAN