THE Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Jigawa State Council, has lauded Governor Umar Namadi for launching a statewide free feeding initiative aimed at supporting less privileged and vulnerable residents during the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement sent to News Point Nigeria on Monday, and jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Comrade Ismai’la Ibrahim Dutse, and Acting Secretary, Comrade Aminu Umar Shuwajo, the union described the programme as a timely and compassionate intervention designed to cushion hardship and strengthen communal bonds across the state.
The NUJ noted that Ramadan is a sacred period marked by fasting, charity, and reflection, and that Governor Namadi’s initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to ensuring that disadvantaged citizens are not left behind during the holy month.
According to the statement, the free feeding programme is structured to provide daily meals to vulnerable groups across various communities in Jigawa State, thereby easing the burden on struggling families.
“This programme is a testament to the commitment of the state government in ensuring that the less privileged are not left behind during this sacred period,” the statement read.
The union emphasized the importance of targeted welfare programmes, particularly in periods of economic difficulty, noting that such interventions help promote social inclusion and unity.
While commending the initiative, the NUJ also urged food vendors awarded contracts under the programme to carry out their duties responsibly and with integrity. The union stressed the need for vendors to provide meals that are both sufficient in quantity and high in quality.
The statement reminded contractors to discharge their responsibilities with honesty and fear of Allah, given the spiritual significance of Ramadan and the trust reposed in them by the government and beneficiaries.
As part of its constitutional mandate as a watchdog of society, the NUJ pledged to closely monitor the implementation of the programme to ensure full compliance with contractual terms and transparency in execution.
The council stated that it would keep a vigilant eye on the distribution process to guarantee that the initiative effectively reaches the intended beneficiaries.
“As promoters of accountability and transparency, we will ensure that this initiative is executed effectively and benefits those who need it most,” the statement added.
The NUJ further described the Ramadan feeding programme as a model intervention that could inspire similar welfare initiatives within and beyond the state. It called on other stakeholders, including private organizations and well-meaning individuals, to support efforts aimed at uplifting vulnerable populations during Ramadan and beyond.
