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The Abia State Government has commenced the distribution of 3,000 bags, each weighing 50kg, of rice. These rice bags were provided by the Federal Government as part of palliative measures for the state’s benefit.
Speaking to the press at the Government House warehouse on Wednesday, Reverend Father Christian Anokwuru, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Policies and Intervention, and also the State Chairman for the Sharing of Federal Government Palliative, emphasized that their focus is on the impoverished and vulnerable populations across the state. He noted that the actual number of beneficiaries has exceeded their initial expectations.
In terms of the distribution process, Father Anokwuru outlined that each of the 184 wards within the state is set to receive 14 bags of palliative resources. He further indicated that clear directives have been issued to the responsible individuals in charge regarding the specific criteria for identifying individuals eligible to benefit from this relief effort.
He states that the committee is composed of representatives from various bodies, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), pensioners, political appointees, and elected members.
While conveying a positive outlook for an increase in arrivals to the state, he offered reassurance to the people of Abia regarding the transparency of the distribution framework.
Yet, Comrade Okoro Ogbonnaya, the NLC representative, conveyed disappointment concerning the quantity of rice supplied by the Federal Government. He revealed that the state government is still anticipating an additional 14,000 bags.
He communicated that the NLC has already notified the government that civil servants within grade levels 1 to 6 will be prioritized upon receipt.
Elder Umar Kalu, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, described the distribution as a gradual process and emphasized the absence of any dubious activities in the procedure.
Expanding on the palliative efforts, Deputy Chief of Staff Chinedu Ekeke revealed that the state government has also secured N2 billion from the Federal Government, a portion of the anticipated N5 billion.
However, he clarified that a portion of these funds constitutes a loan, while the remainder is provided as a grant. Ekeke expressed optimism in receiving the outstanding balance on a subsequent date.
