The Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has commenced the distribution of nearly 4,000 bags of rice and fertilizers across the state.Â
This initiative, covering all 21 local government areas in Kogi, is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” focused on food security.
During the symbolic ceremony, Prince Audu launched the distribution of 2,400 bags of rice and 1,200 bags of fertilizers, signaling the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of Kogi State residents.
This marks a notable achievement in the Honourable Minister’s first year in office and aligns with broader national efforts to address food insecurity.
Prince Audu emphasized that these palliatives are targeted toward vulnerable indigenes and eligible farmers across the state.
He expressed that the initiative is part of a larger strategy by the Federal Government to alleviate the economic hardship being felt by the people and to ensure that all segments of society benefit from government interventions.
“The distribution of these palliatives is not just a federal initiative but also a crucial step towards fostering peace and unity among the residents of Kogi State,” Prince Audu stated.
He assured that, under the leadership of the state governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the items would be distributed equitably to ensure that no group is left out.
He stressed that beneficiaries would include individuals from opposition parties, different ethnic and religious groups, widows, traditional leaders, market women, and other vulnerable groups spread across the state’s three senatorial districts.
“Today, I am here to distribute nearly 4,000 bags of rice and fertilizer across the 21 local government areas of Kogi State. This is to ensure that all stakeholders benefit from the palliatives under Mr. President’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ to guarantee food security,” Prince Audu said.
In addition to the palliative distribution, the Honourable Minister took the opportunity to express his appreciation to the youths of Kogi State for their decision to refrain from participating in the recent nationwide protests.
“I want to thank the youths of Kogi State for abstaining from the protests. Your decision to engage in dialogue, following the advice of your leaders Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and myself has been commendable. We will ensure that your trust in us is not misplaced,” Prince Audu added.
Reflecting on his achievements over the past year as Minister, Prince Audu highlighted the support provided to Kogi residents through various relief initiatives.
He noted that one such intervention was the distribution of nano-business grants of 50,000 Naira each to 5,000 beneficiaries under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In total, this initiative injected 250 million Naira into the local economy, helping to empower many Kogites in small-scale enterprises.
“This palliative distribution is part of our ongoing efforts to bring more development initiatives to Kogi State and to improve the welfare and livelihood of our people. Earlier this year, we also distributed several palliatives, and today, we are continuing to do more,” the Minister said.
Prince Audu concluded by assuring the people of Kogi State that, as their highest representative at the Federal Executive Council, he remains committed to bringing home all the benefits and opportunities available through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He reiterated his dedication to ensuring that Kogi State continues to benefit from the Federal Government’s efforts to develop the region and improve the quality of life for its residents.
