Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has announced over N5 billion worth of palliatives to cushion the effects of the fuel subsidy removal for Nigerlites. The package includes cash and grains, and will be distributed across the state's political parties, religious bodies, and critical stakeholders. The state government is also expecting additional funds to further augment the relief efforts. Governor Bago has declared public holidays to ensure even distribution and direct involvement of government functionaries in their respective constituencies.
MINNA - In a bid to alleviate the burden caused by the removal of fuel subsidies, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago has announced a comprehensive palliative plan worth over N5 billion. The relief package aims to benefit Nigerlites regardless of political affiliation, religious association, or status as critical stakeholders.
In a press conference held at the Government House, Governor Bago outlined the details of the relief efforts. The state government has received N3 billion in cash from the federal government, with an additional N2 billion expected. However, recognizing the urgency of the situation and the need to avoid public unrest, the state government has decided to augment the relief funds with the N1 billion worth of grains received so far.
To ensure equitable distribution, Governor Bago declared the dates of September 6th, 7th, and 8th as public holidays in the state. This will enable government functionaries to visit their constituencies directly and oversee the distribution process effectively.
While the funds are being awaited, the state government has already taken steps to address the immediate needs of the people. A significant portion of the money has been allocated to the procurement of 100 luxurious buses. Fifty buses will operate between Minna and Abuja, 25 will be designated for intra-city services within Minna, and the remaining 25 will be distributed across the 25 Local Government Areas.
Governor Bago emphasized the importance of involving the communities and people in the decision-making process. Instead of centralizing the distribution, the cash backing for the palliatives will be given directly to the Local Government Areas. This approach allows each community to identify and address their most pressing needs, empowering them to source supplies locally as well.
In terms of distribution, each of the 22 Local Government Areas will receive N10 million. The three largest local government areas, Suleja, Minna, and Bida, will be allocated N20 million each. Traditional rulers will also receive a separate package to ensure they do not interfere with the distribution to their subjects. Governor Bago warned that anyone caught diverting the contents of the relief materials would face legal consequences.
However, this announcement is not without its gaps. Our correspondent present at the briefing noted that the increasing number of destitute and beggars in the state had not been included in the list of beneficiaries. Additionally, individuals who do not belong to the major religions or any known associations may also face issues with being included in the relief efforts.
Governor Bago urged citizens to hold their representatives accountable for any oversight or mistakes in the distribution process. To facilitate this, the Governor has declared Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of the following week as work-free days. This will ensure the active involvement of government functionaries and other key stakeholders, leaving no one behind in the effort to alleviate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.
Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-01 News
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