By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Bauchi State Government has released the sum of N3b for the purchase of harvested grains and other foodstuffs in the quest to address the growing challenges of hunger and economic hardship in the state.
To achieve the set objectives, the Government has constituted and inaugurated a Strategic Grains Reserve Committee.
While inaugurating the Committee on Monday at the EXCO Chambers of the Governor’s Office, the Governor, Sen Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir explained that the Committee is tasked with bolstering food security by managing grain reserves, which will be made available to citizens at affordable prices during times of need.
This move by the State Government is a proactive step towards mitigating food insecurity and promoting sustainable development, setting an example for similar initiatives across the country.
Bala Mohammed said that the development underscored the urgent need for the initiative, in view of the rising cost of living and the scarcity of basic commodities in the state and the country in general.
The Governor also announced the provision of N3 billion as a takeoff grant which will be used to procure grain stocks and make food products accessible to the public below prevailing market prices.
The responsibilities of the Strategic Grains Reserve Committee include assessing the current condition of the state’s storage facilities, purchasing essential food commodities, and strategically selling these items at subsidized rates during critical periods.
The initiative is expected to provide much-needed relief to the population, especially those hardest hit by the economic downturn.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Committee, Alhaji Hamza Koshe Akuyam pledged to administer the Committee’s resources prudently, ensuring that their operations remain transparent and focused on the welfare of the people.
