News

Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat > News > Press release > FCT ADMINISTRATION EXTENDS PALLIATIVE DISTRIBUTION TO REACH MORE VULNERABLE GROUPS.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has kicked off a comprehensive initiative to distribute palliatives to vulnerable households across the six Area Councils of the FCT. The distribution, which started on Monday, took place simultaneously in Kwali, Kuje, and Abaji Area Councils.

The Mandate Secretary of the Agriculture & Rural Development Secretariat, Lawan Kolo Geidam, who spoke at Kuje Area Council on behalf of the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, explained that the distribution aims to support vulnerable residents who are adversely affected by the fuel subsidy removal. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the

“Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and aims to instil hope for a better future for all Nigerians.

Speaking in Kwali, the Secretary, Area Council Services Secretariat, Mr. Bitrus Garki, explained that each Area Council would receive a minimum of 1640 bags of rice and maize as part of the palliative distribution program initiated by the Federal Government, which the FCT Administration has planned to be continuous in order to reach the vast majority of the populace.

This extensive effort by the FCT Administration underscores our commitment to providing direct support and assistance to vulnerable groups, ensuring that essential items reach those in need throughout the FCT.

Palliatives to be distributed to vulnerable groups on display
Palliatives to be distributed to vulnerable groups on display

“You may recall that about two weeks ago, the FCT Administration organised an event where some of the food items were distributed to various groups. This includes Area Councils, representatives of 17 Chiefdoms, religious organisations, civil servants and vulnerable groups. The feedback we received from that exercise was incredibly encouraging, which is why we are expanding the distribution today”.

In Abaji, the Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Alh. Ibrahim Aminu who represented the Honourable Minister, urged the beneficiaries to utilize the items for the betterment of their families, advising them against selling the items, stressing that the gesture was meant to provide sustenance in this challenging times

Mandate Secretary for Agric, Lawan Kolo Geidam and Executive Chairman, Kuje Area Council Hon. Abdullahi Suleiman at the distribution of palliatives to vulnerable groups in Kwali
Mandate Secretary for Agric, Lawan Kolo Geidam and Executive Chairman, Kuje Area Council Hon. Abdullahi Suleiman at the distribution of palliatives to vulnerable groups in Kwali

According to him, the initiative was an integral part of the Federal Government’s approach to mitigate the effects of the removal of fuel subsidy which unfortunately has resulted in increased prices of food items.

“We recognise the challenges faced by our fellow citizens and it is our responsibilities to address these hardships and provide necessary support during these challenging times”, he said.

The Chairmen of Kwali, Abaji, and Kuje Area Councils, Danladi Chia, Hon. Abubakar Umar Abdullahi, and Hon. Abdullahi Suleiman Sabo respectively, also commended the FCT Administration’s efforts in their remarks. They acknowledged the challenges faced by citizens and expressed their commitment to addressing hardships and providing necessary support.

Distribution of palliative to poor and vulnerable groups in Kuje Area Council, Abuja, on Monday.
Distribution of palliative to poor and vulnerable groups in Kuje Area Council, Abuja, on Monday.
Distribution of palliative to poor and vulnerable groups in Kuje Area Council, Abuja, on Monday.
Distribution of palliative to poor and vulnerable groups in Kuje Area Council, Abuja, on Monday.

Beneficiaries who spoke at the three Area Councils also commended the President and FCT Minister for the palliatives.

Philip Maikasuwa, a leader of disabled persons in Kuje, however, appealed for consideration for gainful employment.

Another beneficiary, Rashidat Tauheed, a graduate of FCT College of Education, said that the disabled persons would never forget the gesture. She also appealed to be gainfully employed.

The ongoing palliative distribution initiative is a crucial component of the Federal Government’s approach to mitigate the effects of the fuel subsidy removal, demonstrating the administration’s dedication to assisting vulnerable individuals and families in the country.