Ekiti State Distributes Federal Government Donated Rice Palliatives to Vulnerable Citizens.

Ekiti State Distributes Federal Government Donated Rice Palliatives to Vulnerable Citizens.

In a bid to alleviate the economic impact of the recent removal of fuel subsidy, the Ekiti State Government has taken the initiative to distribute rice palliatives donated by the Federal Government to its citizens across the state. The distribution was officially flagged off at the Oshuntokun Government House Pavillon in Ado Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, on Wednesday.

Heading the distribution efforts, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, as well as the Chairman of the Palliatives Distribution Committee, disclosed that approximately 1800 bags of rice had been effectively shared amongst the most vulnerable individuals in the state. During a press conference at the distribution venue, Boluwade highlighted the diverse groups of beneficiaries, including the aged, pensioners, artisans, road transport unions, market women, people with disabilities, as well as okada and maruwa riders, among others.

The catalyst for this initiative stems from the removal of the fuel subsidy, a policy decision announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his inauguration speech on May 29. Consequently, the Federal Government released the rice palliatives to the Ekiti State Government on August 10, 2023, with the aim of supporting those in need during these challenging times.

The distribution plan has taken into account various sectors of society, ensuring a fair allocation of the rice palliatives. For instance, 200 bags of rice have been set aside for artisans and the private sector, while road transport workers will receive 50 bags. Okada riders, tricycle riders, people with disabilities, and pensioners will also benefit from this initiative. The distribution is not only intended to cater to immediate needs but also to ensure that the rice palliatives trickle down to the grassroots level, reaching the approved vulnerable beneficiaries.

In an effort to uphold transparency and community involvement, the distribution process will involve various stakeholders. These include Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), faith organizations represented by clerics such as alfas, pastors, and imams, as well as traditional rulers who are not affiliated with any political agenda. This multi-faceted approach seeks to ensure that the distribution is conducted in a comprehensive and inclusive manner.

Among those in attendance at the distribution event were high-ranking government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro; the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Rt. Taiwo Olatubosun; Honourable Mrs. Yemisi Ayokunle, the Special Adviser on Social Investment Programmes; and Mrs. Oluremi Ajayi Babington, the Special Adviser on Rural Mobilisation.

As the distribution of rice palliatives commences, the Ekiti State Government remains committed to supporting its citizens during these challenging times, ensuring that the benefits reach those who need them the most.