Subsidy: Kwara implements transparent approach to FG’s palliatives
…forms nonpartisan committee for equitable distribution
In a move that underscores transparency and accountability, the Kwara State Government has taken steps to ensure the fair distribution of the Federal Government’s N4 billion relief funds allocated for rice purchase.
The state has already received N2 billion of the allotted funds and anticipates an additional N2 billion, along with N1 billion worth of maize from the national strategic reserve.
Addressing the details of the relief package, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, clarified, “Each state is to receive N4 billion to purchase bags of rice and distribute them to vulnerable citizens as agreed at the National Economic Council. Additionally, each state is set to receive N1 billion worth of maize, which will be provided by the Central Bank of Nigeria.”
Ajakaye continued, “Of the N4 billion, 48% (N1.92 billion) is a noninterest loan, repayable over 20 months at N120 million per month starting from November. The state has already received N2 billion of the N4 billion, and the remaining balance is forthcoming. The state government has promptly initiated the purchase of rice equivalent to the N2 billion received.”
He added that, to ensure the equitable distribution of the palliatives, a nonpartisan committee will oversee the process.
Ajakaye said that the committee will be chaired by Kwara State Police Commissioner Ebun Oluwarotimi Adelesi, with support from various representatives including the Emir of Shonga, Dr. Haliru Yahya, as well as representatives from religious bodies, CSOs, and other key stakeholders.
He furthered that the distribution process will be conducted with transparency and fairness to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable members of the community.
The state government also confirmed the delivery of three additional truckloads of bags of rice, which will be distributed to the public through various channels, including lawmakers representing state constituencies and other stakeholders.
He added that, “in addition to the palliatives, the state government continues to implement multifaceted strategies to support food production, local manufacturing, small and medium-sized enterprises, and other economic initiatives aimed at alleviating the challenges arising from the fuel subsidy removal.”
The Governor expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Federal Government, particularly President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in implementing measures to alleviate the challenges faced by the people.
“The government remains committed to the welfare of all citizens during these times and beyond”, Ajakaye assured.
