FG Okays N5bn Palliative Fund for Each State

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

The Federal Government has approved N5 billion for each of the 36 states of the federation for procurement of food items as part of moves to alleviate the sufferings associated with fuel subsidy removal. 

This was the outcome of the monthly

National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, which was presided over by Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the State House, Abuja.

Briefing newsmen after the meeting, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum,  explained that the measure was part of measures to bring temporary solutions to the high cost of living caused by the subsidy removal as government continued to work with more enduring programme.

According to him, the states are to purchase 100,000 bags of rice and beans among other items, adding that each of the states is also to receive five trucks of rice.

He also said the NEC agreed that the frontier states bordering Niger Republic are to be assisted with more palliative materials than other states, considering the influx of refugees into their domains from the troubled neighbouring country.

Details later…