Gombe State government says it will distribute palliatives to 90,000 citizens in the second phase of the exercise to further ease the pains of subsidy removal on the people.
Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State stated this during a statewide broadcast on Monday in Gombe, to mark the New Year.
Yahaya, while acknowledging that the removal of fuel subsidy had resulted in rising cost of living and economic hardships among citizens, assured that Nigerians would in the new year enjoy the gains of subsidy removal.
He said, “as government begins to invest gains from fuel subsidy removal in areas that deliver long-term growth and inclusive development, I have no doubt that together we shall weather the storms and emerge stronger.
“Over the past six months, we have introduced policies like wage grants to civil servants, food and agricultural support, and other palliative measures aimed at cushioning the side effects of the resulting economic shocks.”
He said in the first phase of the state’s food palliative intervention in August 2023 targeted 420,000 poor and vulnerable people.
“On Tuesday, we are rolling out the second phase of our palliative food distribution programme, targeting about 90,000 beneficiaries across the state.
“Already a committee has been set up under the chairmanship of the deputy governor, with representation of various stakeholders to take charge of this responsibility,” he said.
While wishing the people of the state a prosperous new year, the governor commended them for their resilience and understanding during the fuel subsidy removal.
He urged residents of the state to embrace the new year with renewed hope, determination and sense of purpose.
“In 2024, our focus will be on building a Gombe State that leaves no one behind, as articulated in our recently passed 2024 budget christened ‘budget of continuity and consolidation.’
“We will continue to invest in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, job creation, peace and security.
“We shall continue to harness our human and natural resources in order to put Gombe State on the path of sustainable progress and all-inclusive development,” he said.
Yahaya also called on the traditional rulers and the people to continue to support efforts by the government to ensure security in the state.
“The pursuit of lasting peace and security in our communities requires a united front.
“I, therefore, appeal to our traditional rulers, religious leaders and the general public to lend their guidance, cooperation and prayers for the prosperity and security of Gombe State and Nigeria at large.
“Let us join hands to ensure that peace and harmony becomes the cornerstone of our shared existence,” he said.