SUBSIDY Removal: Gov. Sanwo-Olu Flags Off Distribution Of Food Items To Vulnerable Households
The Lagos state Govenor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has flagged off the distribution of food items for vulnerable households through the Lagos Food Bank Programme earlier today.
This initiative he said aimed to alleviate the impact of the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government on the residents of Lagos.
According to him, the Lagos Food Bank Programme is part of the intervention measures implemented by our administration to ease the hardship faced by many Lagosians due to increased transportation costs and rising food prices resulting from the fuel subsidy removal.
In addition to this Food Bank initiative, we have also implemented other measures, including a 50% reduction in transportation costs within the government-owned bus system and free health services for pregnant women in government hospitals.
This food bank initiative will directly benefit 500,000 households. It is noteworthy to highlight the involvement of over 2,500 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in bag manufacturing, food aggregation, packaging, and logistics. Indirectly, this initiative will positively impact over 25,000 employees of these MSMEs.
In his statement he said, “I want to assure you all that we have taken adequate measures to ensure that the food items reach the intended beneficiaries. The distribution will be carried out through various channels, such as groups, institutions, non-governmental organizations, community development committees, people living with disabilities, and the Social Protection Department in the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget.
“We will also utilize the Social Register of the Vulnerable in the State to ensure transparency. I assure you that we have implemented robust measures to ensure the intended beneficiaries receive the assistance they require.
“Our administration will continue to initiate programs and projects aimed at improving living conditions and providing a better future for all. The policies implemented by the Federal government may be difficult but they are necessary to reposition our economy on the path of sustainable development and prosperity.
“I appeal for the continued understanding of all Lagosians as we navigate through these challenging times, and I assure you that we will do everything within our capacity to ease this temporary pain and uplift our people.