By Bitrus Osagie
In continuation of the ongoing efforts to reduce hardship caused by rising cost of living occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government, Gombe State Government, earlier today commenced the distribution of food and other palliatives to residents of Balanga Local Government Area.
The exercise, performed by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, took place at the Palace of Bala Waja, Danjuma Mohammed in Talasse.
Recall that Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, earlier in the week, launched the distribution of palliatives targeting over 450,000 beneficiaries across the state’s 11 local government areas.
Dr. Manassah Jatau, while flagging off the commencement of palliative distribution in Balanga LGA, underscored the Inuwa-led administration’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of its citizens.
The distribution, he said, was made possible through the compassion of Governor Inuwa Yahaya, whose empathy towards the prevailing economic challenges prompted the provision of assistance to mitigate the impact.
Dr. Jatau emphasized the administration’s dedication to the welfare of the people, acknowledging the nation’s current economic difficulties.
He shared, “We all know that the country is witnessing economic hardship.
“It is in view of this situation that Gov Inuwa provided these items to be distributed in all the polling units of the state to mitigate the effect of hardship,” he added.
He recognized that while the provisions might not reach every household, those who do receive them should assist those who don’t, fostering a spirit of love and adhering to religious teachings.
Dr. Jatau elucidated on the distributed items: “The rice is for immediate use while the fertilizer and agro-chemicals are for use on the farm. While the fertilizer may look as coming late, it is meant for preparation against the next wet season farming. But I enjoin those living in places where dry season farming is feasible to make a good effort and engage in dry season farming to complement the produce to be harvested in the wet season.”
Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, Secretary to the State Government, apprised the gathering of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya’s directive for immediate distribution of palliatives in all local government areas to alleviate the challenges people are facing.
“You could recall that the Governor performed the flag-off of distribution of palliatives in Dadin Kowa, Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Area some few days ago to provide succour to the people amidst the economic hardship we are going through. He has directed the Deputy Governor to ensure that the distribution commences in all local government areas, hence the flag-off taking place today here in the palace of Bala Waja.”
The Chairman of the State Steering Committee for Distribution of the items, Abdullahi Haruna Abdullah said that approximately 30,000 households with 10 households from each of the 2988 polling units across the state would benefit from the palliatives.
He explained that sub committees had been formed at different levels to ensure efficient distribution.
Balanga Local Government Chairman, Garba Umar conveyed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the community, acknowledging the State Government for its assistance during these trying times.
Some beneficiaries, Yusuf Babayo and Mrs. Barsheba Daniel expressed their appreciation, assuring judicious use of the items.
The palliative distribution initiative in Balanga Local Government Area reflects the Gombe State Government’s resolute commitment to the welfare of its citizens, as evidenced by the proactive measures taken to alleviate economic hardships through these vital provisions.
