In a bid to alleviate the hardships caused by recent economic challenges, the Oyo State Government has set aside an impressive sum of N8.6 billion for an ambitious palliative distribution initiative.
Spearheaded by the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) committee, this move aims to extend relief to the struggling populace.
Revealing this significant allocation during a press briefing following the executive council meeting, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, shared that this initiative is in response to the ongoing challenges faced by residents.
The breakdown of the allocation revealed that Local Government Areas contributed N2.6 billion to food palliatives, while the State Government contributed N6 billion.
Governor Seyi Makinde, in a recent statement, had promised swift action and fulfillment of this initiative, marking a glimmer of hope for thousands of households affected by economic difficulties.
With determination to fulfill this promise, Governor Makinde, along with key officials, will kick off the distribution process tomorrow.
The initiative, set to cover 200,000 households in its initial phase, will subsequently expand to various regions.
Commissioner Oyelade assured that the distribution will be a systematic process, rolled out in multiple phases to effectively reach each household.
The focus of the initiative is to ease the burden on Oyo State residents in the aftermath of the fuel subsidy removal by the federal government.
“The magnitude of this effort cannot be underestimated,” Prince Oyelade stated.
The initial distribution will target over a million people, with each family potentially consisting of up to 6 members. The items to be distributed include essential staples such as rice, garri, beans, elubo, and vegetable oil.
Emphasizing the inclusivity of the program, Commissioner Oyelade conveyed that the distribution will encompass all major zones of the state, ensuring the poorest members of society receive the much-needed aid.
Key figures such as the Deputy Governor and other officials will participate in the flag-off events across various regions.
The budget for the food palliatives is meticulously planned, with Prof Musbau Babatunde, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, offering a breakdown of the costs involved.
The initiative also extends its reach to agropreneurs, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and healthcare.
A substantial amount has been earmarked for healthcare insurance, support for pensioners, and security personnel, underscoring the holistic approach of the program.
With a strong commitment to efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity, the Oyo State Government is poised to alleviate the pressing challenges faced by its residents through a well-structured, comprehensive palliative distribution effort.
Residents are encouraged to engage with the government through feedback channels to enhance the program’s effectiveness and address any concerns.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
