Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has announced the formation of a committee to oversee the distribution of 20 truckloads of rice donated by the federal government.
Governor Mutfwang made this disclosure on August 16 while addressing a group of youths in Jos. He clarified that the donation consisted of 25kg bags of rice, contrary to reports suggesting they were 50kg bags. The governor, however, acknowledged that the 20 truckloads were insufficient to meet the needs of the state’s vulnerable population.
To address this shortfall, Governor Mutfwang assured the public that the state government would procure additional rice to ensure that the palliatives reach those in need.
The committee responsible for the distribution is composed of stakeholders from the state’s 17 local government areas. According to the governor, “The committee includes all LGA chairmen, Commissioners from each LGA, representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria, and Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI).” Other members include principals of all boarding schools in each LGA, as well as youth and women leaders.
This distribution effort is part of the Tinubu administration’s initiative to combat hunger. While the initiative is commendable, ensuring that these provisions reach the grassroots without being compromised by corruption is crucial. The success of this effort largely depends on the committee members’ commitment to ensuring that those suffering from the economic downturn benefit from the government’s provisions.