Hardship: SOSG sells rice at 55% to the needy

FEATURE

Hardship: SOSG sells rice at 55% to the needy

By Abubakar Aminu

Gov. Ahmed Aliyu recently inaugurated the committee for the sale of rice at 55 per cent  discount. During the inauguration he warned members of the committee against politicizing the exercise. 

According to a release signed by Press Secretary to Sokoto State Governent, Abubakar Bawa, on Tuesday, the gesture was aimed  at assisting the people of the state, irrespective of their political, religious or  ethnic differences to cushion the hardship being experienced by Nigerians. 

Aware of the character of some public servants, the governor warned: “Let me warn here that the rice is for all the people of the state and should be sold at the approved rate of 55 per cent discount.

“As Muslims, we were taught to always show mercy to our fellow human beings, irrespective of whatever differences we may have.” 

Discounted rice sold in 244 wards

The Governor further said the commodity would be sold across the 244 wards in the state, with a view to ensuring that the target beneficiaries benefit from the noble gesture.

Since the assumption in office of Gov. Aliyu, he has been introducing various palliatives geared towards making life easier for the common man.

He had distributed hundreds of bags of rice, millet and maize as well as the distribution of free fertilizer and other farm inputs to the people of the state. 

Aliyu assured the people of the state that the gesture would be sustained until the economic situation improves. 

“I, therefore, urge the well-meaning individuals and corporate bodies in the state to partner with the state government in this direction.”

Appointment on merit

Gov. Aliyu reminded the members of the committee that their appointment was based on their track records, sincerity and honesty, hence the need for them to be just and fair in discharging their assignment. He then  charged them to justify the confidence reposed in them and prayed for them to succeed. 

Justifying people’s confidence 

Responding, the Chairman, Committee on the Sale of Food Items and Other Essential Commodities, Chiso Abdullahi Dattijo, assured the Governor that they would justify the confidence reposed in them. 

He thanked the governor for giving them the opportunity to serve the state and assured that the committee would operate in line with the guidelines given to it by the state government. 

The committee drew its membership from different quarters such as the academia, public sector, security agencies and anti-graft agencies like EFCC as well as ICPC, among others. 

In a remarkable display of compassion and commitment to the welfare of his people, Governor Aliyu’s initiative is groundbreaking. This visionary leader’s proactive approach to addressing food insecurity has brought relief to countless households, earning the people’s governor a widespread acclaim.

Gov. Aliyu’s discounted rice initiative is a shining example of people-centred governance. By subsidizing rice, a staple food in Nigeria, he has demonstrated empathy for the struggling masses.

This bold move has reduced the financial burden on low-income families; gives families access to nutritious food which  improves the overall wellbeing and health.

The move also has increased the purchasing power of the people that stimulates local economies of the state. 

This is a public officeholder who understands the struggles of his people and responding with tangible solutions. Thus this initiative will  create long-term positive change that benefits many, not just the privileged few.

The sale of the discounted rice to all the 244 wards is a testament to his love for the people of Sokoto State. 

A true servant leader

As Governor Aliyu continues to champion the cause of the marginalized, his legacy as a compassionate and effective leader will endure. Sokoto State is fortunate to have a leader who is a true servant leader.

Abubakar Aminu writes from Sokoto, Sokoto State 

 

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