From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State today inaugurated the distribution of palliatives to approximately 120,000 vulnerable individuals across the 17 local government areas of the state, aiming to provide relief to the populace facing economic challenges.
Addressing attendees at the flag-off ceremony in Government House Damaturu, the governor highlighted the state’s commitment to providing support through interventions facilitated by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
He expressed satisfaction with the positive feedback received from previous distribution exercises, emphasizing the importance of direct and indirect monitoring mechanisms.
Governor Buni commended SEMA’s effective utilization of experience gained over the years in distributing essential materials and resettling displaced persons, ensuring support reaches those in genuine need. He lauded the agency’s management and staff for meeting government expectations.
“The distribution we are launching is significant, targeting 120,000 vulnerable households to alleviate economic hardships and provide food assistance to those in genuine need”
“We have procured over 50,000 bags of assorted food items, including rice, maize, millet, and sorghum for distribution across the state’s 17 local government areas” stated Governor Buni.
The distribution process involves representatives from various groups, including People Living With Disabilities, mosques, churches, orphanages, IDPs, and other vulnerable groups selected across the 178 wards.
The Governor expressed gratitude to the federal government, NG-Cares, North East Development Commission (NEDC), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and other partners for their support in complementing state efforts to provide relief to citizens.
He instructed SEMA to collaborate with security agencies to ensure safe transportation and distribution of materials to beneficiaries, warning against any acts of sabotage or diversion.
Additionally, the governor directed local government committees to prioritize transparency and accountability, with special attention given to vulnerable groups such as People Living with Disabilities, the elderly, nursing and expectant mothers, retirees, and low-level civil servants.
Governor Buni conveyed the administration’s empathy and solidarity to the beneficiaries, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting individuals and communities not only with immediate relief but also with initiatives aimed at sustainable development and food security.
He urged all relevant stakeholders, including members of the Yobe State House of Assembly, local government chairmen, community leaders, civil society organizations, and other actors, to collaborate in ensuring the effective monitoring and distribution of food items to the most vulnerable persons in the state.