In the face of prevailing economic hardships, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, recently unveiled the “Feed the Hungry” initiative, earmarking over 1 billion naira monthly to cater to the nutritional needs of the impoverished and vulnerable residents of the state.
The initiative was officially launched at the Benin Catholic Archdiocesan Chancery Building, within St. Paul Catholic Church, Benin City. Governor Obaseki held separate meetings with Christian and Muslim leaders to inaugurate the program, which will be overseen by religious bodies across the state’s 18 local councils.
Governor Obaseki expressed his commitment to allocating over 1 billion naira monthly for the pilot phase of the program. “I am delighted to formally introduce the ‘Feed the Hungry’ initiative in Edo State. We will regularly review the program’s progress and promptly address any challenges encountered,” he affirmed.
Highlighting the imperative of governmental response amidst prevailing adversities, Obaseki stated, “Rather than merely lamenting, we opted to engage with Christian leaders to devise strategies for alleviating the plight faced by our people. On February 10, 2024, government officials convened with Christian leaders to deliberate on these issues, and a committee was subsequently established to address the crisis.”
Governor Obaseki also met with the league of Imams in Edo State, led by Chief Imam of Benin Central Mosque, Alhaji Fatai Enabulele, seeking their collaboration in ensuring the success of the initiative.
“We have engaged with Christian leaders and are now reaching out to the Muslim community. Recognizing the limitations of government in catering to every individual’s needs, we aim to lead by example. We will provide financial support for the purchase and distribution of food items to individuals at the Mosques during prayer times,” Obaseki explained.
Expressing a meticulous approach to the distribution process, he added, “Our strategy involves procuring food items at various locations to ensure equitable distribution. Our primary concern is the welfare of our people, and we pledge to work hand in hand with you to address their nutritional needs effectively. Your coordination will be pivotal in facilitating efficient distribution and ensuring that assistance reaches those in need.”
