Azumi Welfare Foundation, a Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) on Monday disbursed N5,000 cash relief to 1, 200 residents of Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State to cushion the impact of COVID-19.
Sani Abbas, founder of the foundation, said that the beneficiaries were selected from 12 electoral wards of the LGA.
He said the gesture was aimed at supporting government efforts in enhancing the welfare of its citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to him, the outbreak of COVID-19 has forced the shutdown of economic activities leading to the loss of jobs.
“COVID-19 has brought out the humanity in us to support people around us, the money might look small but it will go a long way in supporting their businesses,’’ he said.
Abbas explained that the disbursement was being done in batches in strict compliance with COVID-19 preventive protocols.
He said the first batch included beneficiaries from Sabon Tasha, Kujama, Sabon Gari and Kakau wards while the remaining eight wards would get at a later date.
He called on the affluent in the society to continue to complement government’s efforts in helping the needy in the society.
Samaila Leeman, Chairman, Chikun Local Government Area, commended the foundation for gesture saying it would go a long way to ameliorate the plight of the people.
Leeman noted that the gesture had brought unity in the area as it cuts across tribal and religious lines, saying that the Local Government Council would continue to encourage gestures that unite the people.
“Chikun LGA has different ethnic and religious groups which the foundation put into consideration to ensure everyone benefit from the fund,’’ he added.
He called on residents of the LGA to be security conscious by reporting suspicious movements to the authorities for prompt action.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Felix Joseph, a tailor, commended the foundation for the funds.
He called on other well-meaning individuals and organisations to emulate Azumi Welfare Foundation and support the poor.