In a significant effort to alleviate the high cost of food items in Nigeria, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has distributed 1,760 metric tones of food supplies to Lagos State. This initiative is part of the federal government’s broader strategy to cushion the economic impact on citizens.
The distribution includes 780 metric tones of maize, equivalent to 15,600 bags of 50 kg maize; 800 metric tones of sorghum, equivalent to 16,000 bags of 50 kg sorghum; and 94 metric tones of garri, equivalent to 3,760 bags of 25 kg garri.
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At the distribution event, NEMA’s Director-General, Zubaida Umar, represented by the South-West Zonal Director, Steven Adewale, emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“In fulfilment of his promise to reduce the impact of the current economic downturn experienced in the country and in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda, Mr. President approved the release of 42,000 metric tonnes of food commodities from the national strategic reserve under the custody of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security. The assorted food commodities include maize, sorghum, and garri,” said Ms. Umar.
She highlighted that the food items will be distributed across all local government areas in Lagos State. Additionally, 20% of the food supplies will be allocated to religious organizations, and 3% will be designated for boarding schools within the state.
Dr. Rasheed Macauley, Head of Veterinary Services, received the items on behalf of the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture. He expressed gratitude to the federal government for the support and requested additional supplies due to the large population of Lagos.
One of the recipients, Victory Olaleye, also expressed her appreciation to both the federal and state governments for their efforts in providing relief during these challenging times.
This distribution is part of a broader national effort to mitigate the impact of economic challenges on citizens, ensuring that essential food items are accessible to those in need.