Sokoto to spend N3.7bn on rice, millets for residents

As part of efforts to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal on the residents, the Sokoto State Government has earmarked about N4bn on food items to be distributed across the various local government areas.

Briefing newsmen at the council chamber after the maiden State Executive Council meeting on Friday, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Sheikh Dr Jabir Maihula, said the state governor, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, has approved the purchase of items to be distributed.

According to the commissioner, “the State Executive Council members in its inaugural meeting has approved the purchase of 57,000 bags of 50kg rice at the cost of N2.508bn.

“The council also approved the purchase of another 26,000 bags of 100kg millets at the cost of N1.430bn.”

He said the said items also include another 44,000 bags of maize which will be purchased by the state government in conjunction with the Federal Government.

He explained that the governor would however set up a committee that would monitor the distribution of the foodstuffs across the 23 local governments area of the state.

Meanwhile, in order to make transport easier for people, the state executive council also approved the purchase of 50 18-seater Toyota Hiace buses, 2022 model at the cost of N2.8bn.

It also earmarked over N560m for the purchase of 20 pieces of Toyota Camry, 2022 model, aimed at providing transport for women in the state.

The state commissioner for religious affairs further explained that the vehicles would also be supported by another 10 buses donated to the state by BUA Group recently.

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