The Kwara State Government has confirmed that it has received N2bn out of the N4bn relief funds that the Federal Government released.
These funds are intended for the purchase of rice to be distributed to vulnerable members of the public in the state.
The government is still awaiting the remaining N2bn of the funds, as well as N1bn worth of maize from the Central Bank of Nigeria. The maize will be sold to each state from the national strategic reserve.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, explained that each state is to receive N4bn to purchase rice and distribute it to citizens, giving priority to the most vulnerable individuals. This was agreed upon at the National Economic Council.
Additionally, each state will receive N1bn worth of maize from the national reserve through the Central Bank of Nigeria.
Ajakaye stated that as of August 18, 2023, the Kwara State Government has received N2bn of the N4bn relief funds and is still awaiting the balance. He emphasized that 48% of the N4bn is a noninterest loan that will be paid back over a period of 20 months. Deductions will begin in November, with a monthly payment of N120,000,000.
To ensure transparency and fairness, the state government has formed a committee headed by the Kwara State Police Commissioner, Ebun Oluwarotimi Adelesi. This committee will oversee the distribution of the relief packages, with support from other representatives such as the Emir of Shonga, the state chairman of Jama’átu Nasrul Islam, the Christian Association Chairman, representatives from civil society organizations, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, youth representatives, the Department of State Services, representatives from the disability community, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, and the Permanent Secretary (General Service) in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.
Furthermore, the state government has confirmed the receipt of three more trucks containing the bags of rice the government had on August 8, 2023 announced delivery of two truckloads of bags of rice, while awaiting three more.
Distribution of the remaining three truckloads has commenced through various channels of reaching out to the public, including lawmakers who represent the 24 state constituencies and other stakeholders in the state.
The State Government, again, urges that these palliatives be shared in the spirit of fairness to all, particularly to the most vulnerable persons, because it is simply impractical for everyone to get at the same time.
“The government appeals to members of the public to remain patient and calm as multi-layered steps are being taken in phases, including huge interventions to support massive food production, local production of gas-powered vehicles, support for small and medium scale enterprises, manufacturing and other businesses, to boost the economy and ease the difficulties arising from the removal of fuel subsidy.
“The Governor commends the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the several initiatives of the Federal Government to bring ease to the people. The Governor reassures all Kwarans of his commitments to their welfare at this time and always.”
