GOMBE State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, has flagged off the distribution of food palliative support to vulnerable households across the state as part of efforts to cushion the impact of economic hardship during the holy month of Ramadan.
In a show of inclusiveness, the gesture has also been extended to the Christian community in recognition of the ongoing Lenten season.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Governor said the intervention was in keeping with the tradition of supporting citizens during important religious periods, particularly at a time when many households are grappling with economic challenges.
He noted that both Ramadan and Lent are seasons that promote sacrifice, charity and empathy for the less privileged.
“Since assuming office in 2019, we have consistently rolled out Ramadan palliative programmes as a deliberate intervention to support our people during the fasting period.
Today, I am pleased to announce the continuation of this noble initiative, thereby reaffirming our administration’s commitment to ensuring that no member of our society is left behind,” the Governor said.
He added: “As we observe Ramadan, we are equally mindful that this sacred period coincides with the Christian Lenten season, when our Christian brothers and sisters also engage in fasting, prayer, sacrifice and spiritual reflection.
This unique convergence reminds us of the shared values that bind us together as people of faith. I therefore call on all citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation, to use this period to promote peace, tolerance and mutual respect.”
Governor Inuwa Yahaya disclosed that the palliative programme is targeting 70,000 beneficiaries across the state, with distribution carefully structured to cover persons living with disabilities, religious organizations, orphanages, party support groups and other vulnerable members of the society.
He urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the items and called on religious leaders, traditional rulers and community stakeholders to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability throughout the distribution process.
The Governor also charged citizens to intensify prayers for Nigeria and its leadership, saying: “Let us pray for the success and wisdom of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as he steers our nation through challenging but necessary reforms. Let us also pray for the security, stability, unity and lasting peace of our dear country.”
Apart from the approved list of the distribution committees earlier released, the governor directed that all districts heads across the 11 local governments be co-opted into the local distribution committees for inclusiveness.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chairman of the State Distribution Committee and Commissioner for Local Government and Community Development, Alhaji Abdulkadir Mohammed Waziri, assured that the committee would work diligently to guarantee a seamless, transparent and credible distribution exercise.
Similarly, the Chairman of ALGON and Chairman of Gombe Local Government Council, Barrister Sani Ahmad Haruna, who spoke on behalf of the 11 council chairmen, said they had collectively resolved to fully support the exercise and ensure that the items reach the most deserving beneficiaries, pledging strict adherence to the established guidelines.
Highlight of the event was the symbolic presentation of palliative items to selected beneficiaries and organizations, marking the official commencement of the statewide distribution exercise.