From Tongnaan Bawa Jos
The Federal Government has flagged off the distribution of food and nutrition support to vulnerable households in Plateau State under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The programme was launched at the New Government House in Little Rayfield, Jos, on Monday, with federal and state officials, humanitarian partners, traditional rulers and community representatives in attendance.
Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Olubunmi Olusanya, said the intervention is aimed at addressing rising food insecurity affecting several northern states.
He explained that communal conflicts, climate shocks and disruptions to rural livelihoods have placed many families in Plateau State under humanitarian pressure.
Olusanya added that the Federal Government is working closely with the Plateau State Government to ensure transparent distribution and that the support reaches the most vulnerable households.
Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, said the programme prioritises women-headed households, malnourished children, the elderly and persons living with disabilities.
He added that beneficiaries will also be linked to long-term support programmes including cash transfers, agricultural assistance and livelihood restoration.
Also speaking, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for introducing support programmes aimed at assisting vulnerable Nigerians amid ongoing economic reforms.
He said the President has consistently urged governors to pay attention to the needs of the poor and vulnerable in society.
The governor likened the intervention to a mother giving hungry children something to eat while waiting for the main meal, noting that the programme would help cushion the impact of current economic reforms.
Mutfwang expressed confidence that the reforms would eventually produce positive results while immediate support continues to reach those in need.
He also appreciated the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction for bringing the programme to Plateau and assured that the state government would support initiatives that improve citizens’ welfare.
The governor added that the state is also focusing on long-term solutions, including the procurement of fertilizer for distribution to farmers across all local government areas at subsidised rates.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening its position as the food basket of the nation.
Our correspondent reports that the event ended with the official flag-off of the distribution of food and nutrition items to vulnerable households across the state.