Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has flagged off the distribution of 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted commodities to vulnerable households in the state.
The flag-off ceremony was held on Monday at the office of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs in Gusau, the state capital.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, revealed that the commodities were presented to the state government for onward distribution to the less privileged by the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA.
Mr Idris said distribution was conducted by the the director general of NEMA, Zubaida Umar, who was represented by the Northwest zonal director of the agency, Ishaya Chonoko.
In his speech, Mr Lawal disclosed that the distribution comes at a crucial time as people are facing significant challenges due to the activities of bandits and recently introduced policies aimed at strengthening the nation’s economy.
He added that the gesture will provide relief to the beneficiaries and support the efforts of the state government to mitigate the hardships faced by the people.
He said, “I wish to express my gratitude to Mr President for his determination to end the menace of insecurity, as without this commitment, no meaningful achievements can be recorded in any sector that contributes to development.
“This assistance will undoubtedly provide much-needed relief to the beneficiaries and significantly support the ongoing efforts of the state government in this regard.
“This effort by the Federal Government will complement my administration’s efforts to address the longstanding problem of banditry in the state and provide succour to our teeming populace.
“Since my assumption in office as the Governor, I have been working tirelessly to garner support for our fight against banditry and support the vulnerable people across the state, especially women, children, and the elderly.
“On behalf of the good people of Zamfara, I thank the Federal Government for this and numerous other supports extended to our state.
“Needless to say, these items will go a long way in alleviating the food difficulties faced by our people. I, therefore, urge those receiving the items to make the best use of them.
“With these few remarks, it is my pleasure, on behalf of the government and the good people of Zamfara State, to receive 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted commodities and flag off their distribution to vulnerable residents of Zamfara State.
“May Almighty Allah continue to crown all our efforts with success at various levels of governance. May He also restore the legendary harmonious coexistence among our people. May these commodities serve their intended purpose of providing immediate relief to the vulnerable persons across the state.”