Yobe State Governor, Hon. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni, CON, COMN, on Monday launched the distribution of 50,000 bags of assorted grains to vulnerable persons across the state’s 17 local government areas, as part of efforts to cushion the effects of natural disasters and support food security.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Damaturu, Gov. Buni said the intervention aligns with his administration’s commitment to building resilience and ensuring food security, especially in the face of recurring flood disasters.
He expressed sympathy with families affected by this year’s floods, acknowledging the hardship faced by many during the lean farming season.
“Government is conscious of the challenges posed by such calamities, and the difficulties that usually accompany the farming circle between planting and harvesting seasons,” Buni said.
“Our administration is committed to providing succour at such challenging moments to support our people, mitigate the impact of the floods, restore hope and overcome these challenges with dignity,” he added.
The grains distribution targets various categories of vulnerable persons, including:
5,580 primary school teachers
1,780 primary healthcare workers
2,400 persons with special needs
1,200 Tsangaya Mallams
Vulnerable members of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)
2,000 junior cadre civil servants
2,000 staff of tertiary institutions
600 staff of teaching and specialist hospitals
25,500 vulnerable persons from the 17 LGAs
Governor Buni reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to agricultural development, describing it as a key driver of economic growth, food sufficiency and long-term food security.
“These interventions will continue to receive government attention, with emphasis on irrigation farming to boost agricultural productivity,” he stated.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for aligning national priorities with the state’s goals under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“I am also glad to state that the proactive and collaborative efforts of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), with development and humanitarian partners, have been valuable in safeguarding lives and protecting livelihoods,” the governor said.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of SEMA, Dr. Muhammad Goje, lauded the governor’s sustained support for vulnerable communities. His remarks were echoed by representatives of the World Food Programme and other development partners, who commended the state government’s proactive response.
