As part of ongoing efforts to alleviate the impact of economic hardship on Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu has distributed 1,200 bags of rice to each of his ministers for distribution as palliatives. The rice is intended to reach the elderly, a demographic considered particularly vulnerable in the current economic climate.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, highlighted that the rice distribution aims to supplement existing efforts by state governments and civic organizations. Dr. Alake stressed that this initiative reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to responding to public demands for increased food accessibility at the grassroots level.
“We need to reach out to our aged fathers and mothers at times like this to demonstrate the *Omoluabi* values of taking care of the old in the community,” said Alake. He emphasized that the focus of this particular distribution would be elderly citizens who may struggle to compete for welfare goods at larger distribution centers.
The minister also indicated that subsequent rounds of intervention would expand to include other vulnerable groups such as widows, orphans, people living with disabilities, and students in higher education institutions.
This move comes as Nigeria grapples with rising food prices and widespread economic challenges, further exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidies. President Tinubu’s administration continues to explore ways to support the most affected citizens during these difficult times.
