Subsidy removal: LASG makes food packs available to residents

The Lagos State Government’s food bank programme to vulnerable residents of the state is continuing as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appeals to people for their understanding.

Recall that the governor, at the inauguration of the Lagos Food Bank Programme distribution to various groups at Lagos House, Ikeja said that he was aware of the challenges residents were facing due to the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.

Sanwo-Olu had also solicited the support of wealthy and spirited Nigerians to support the government’s efforts in providing succour to the people.

According to him, the state government has started  implementing earlier announced measures to cushion the effects of subsidy removal, including 50% reduction in BRT fares as well as commercial buses in the state.

Another measure the state had implemented according to the governor is the free health care service to pregnant women in the state.

The governor further said, “The goal of the programmes is to reach about 500,000 households in the state as well as 250 Small and Medium Scale Enterprises to benefit. We have made use of the Social Register from the Ministry of Economic Budget and Planning in ensuring those in need are reached out to”.

To avoid diversion of food packs and palliatives, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu disclosed that a committee involving all stakeholders had been put in place for close monitoring.

He also informed the gathering that the distribution would be carried out across the five divisions of the state in phases in order to avoid congestion and stampede.

Governor said the items were sourced from markets within the state, thereby boosting the local economy.

A statement said the beneficiaries of the palliatives and food packs were members the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Civil Society Groups, Trade Union Congress, Nigeria Labour Congress, Nigerian Union of Teachers, Youth Groups, physically challenged, Joint Negotiating Council, religious Groups.

Each Food Pack contains Rice, Gari, Beans, oil, among other items.