The Senate President of Nigeria, Senator Godwin Akpabio, recently announced during a session with federal lawmakers that all 36 state governors have received an additional N30 billion from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to address food shortages in the country.
He emphasized that these funds are separate from the governors’ regular monthly allocations and urged them to use the money specifically to alleviate the food scarcity situation.
He said, “Many protests occur, often sponsored, unaware of the senate and federal management team’s efforts. Unverified reports claim each state received an extra N30 billion from the Federal Inland Revenue Service to alleviate the food crisis. It’s urged that states use these funds to ensure food availability.”
“This Senate will not rubber stamp anything that will feel is not with the interest of Nigeria,” he added.
Akpabio expressed concern about protests in various cities against rising hunger and hardship, suggesting that some of these protests may be influenced by political interests rather than genuine concerns.
He assured that the Senate is actively working to address the situation alongside a joint management team of the federal government.
a recent protest in Ibadan, Oyo State, where residents, particularly youths, blocked major roads to demonstrate against economic hardship attributed to government policies.
Similar protests were reported in Minna and Suleja, Niger State, earlier this month, with demonstrators calling for an end to the economic challenges and inflation.
Akpabio stressed the importance of the additional funds provided to the state governors to mitigate food shortages, while also acknowledging the need for transparent and effective use of these resources.
He reassured the public that the Senate is committed to addressing the country’s challenges and emphasized the importance of accountability and proper governance in ensuring progress and development.
