Redaction Africa Links 24 with Legit.ng
Published on 2024-03-20 10:15:40
The ongoing 2024 Ramadan season has seen seven states in Nigeria allocating a total of over N28.3 billion for feeding people during the fasting period. The figures released by the states have shed light on the significant amount set aside for this purpose.
While many states, especially in the northern region, have allocated funds for such projects, some have chosen to keep the information private. This lack of transparency has raised concerns among various stakeholders, including religious leaders, who have called for accountability in the utilization of these funds.
Critics have emphasized the importance of supporting the less privileged during Ramadan, highlighting the spiritual rewards associated with such acts of kindness. However, they have also cautioned against potential abuses and urged for proper oversight of the process.
The states that have openly declared their budget allocation for Ramadan feeding include:
1. **Katsina**: The Katsina state government led the pack by partnering with the 34 local governments to purchase N10 billion worth of grains for distribution to vulnerable individuals during Ramadan.
2. **Sokoto**: Following Katsina’s initiative, Sokoto allocated N6.7 billion for distributing Ramadan packages to its residents. Governor Ahmed Aliyu announced this allocation, which includes various essential items.
3. **Kano**: Another Northwest state, Kano, set aside N6 billion to feed approximately 10 million people across its 44 local government areas during Ramadan.
4. **Jigawa**: This northern state earmarked N2.83 billion for feeding the poor and vulnerable individuals during the Iftar time in Ramadan. The government plans to establish 609 feeding centers for this purpose.
5. **Kebbi**: With an allocation of N1.5 billion, Kebbi State announced plans to provide free food at designated mosques in each local government area during the 2024 Ramadan period.
6. **Niger**: The North-Central state of Niger budgeted N976 million for Ramadan packages to be distributed in eight Emirates councils to various sectors of society.
7. **Yobe**: Governor Mai Mala Buni announced a N187 million Ramadan feeding package for the less privileged and vulnerable individuals in the state, making it the seventh state to disclose its budget allocation for this purpose.
In addition to these budget allocations, President Bola Tinubu recently broke his fast with service chiefs, executive council members, and heads of government agencies. This gathering took place amid controversies surrounding the deaths of 17 soldiers in Delta state.
The significant funding allocated by these states for Ramadan feeding underscores the importance of providing support to the vulnerable during this holy month. However, it also highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the utilization of these funds to ensure they reach their intended beneficiaries effectively.
Read the original article on Legit.ng
