Governor Babagana Zulum on Tuesday flagged off the distribution of Ramadan palliatives to 300,000 households across the 27 local government areas of Borno State, in a bid to ease the economic hardship faced by vulnerable residents during the holy month.
The launch ceremony, held at Ramat Square in Maiduguri, marks the commencement of the state-wide intervention, which will see each beneficiary receive one bag of rice, one bag of millet and 10 kilograms of sugar.
Addressing members of the distribution committee, Gov. Zulum emphasized the need for transparency, accountability and fairness in the exercise.
“To the committee in charge of this distribution, let transparency be your watchword. Let fairness be your guide. These items are not for sale.
“They are not for your friends or family members who do not need them,” he said.
He warned that the palliatives were strictly meant for widows, orphans, internally displaced persons, farmers whose livelihoods are yet to fully recover, and low-income earners struggling to meet daily needs.
The governor added that any official found diverting the items would face legal consequences.
Gov. Zulum also directed that the distribution be extended to Christian residents observing the Lent season, which coincides with Ramadan this year.
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He said the gesture underscores his administration’s commitment to inclusivity and religious harmony.
“This gesture will also touch non-Muslims who are fasting the Lent, which falls within the month of Ramadan,” he stated.
The Zulum administration has consistently supported Christian communities in Borno State, particularly during festive periods.
Annual interventions include the distribution of food items to Christians during Christmas and the provision of free transportation for non-indigenes traveling to celebrate with their families outside the state.
In separate remarks, the senator representing Borno Central, Sen. Kaka Lawan, and the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Bukar Tijani, commended the governor for prioritizing the welfare of vulnerable citizens.
Earlier, the Director-General of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Ali Abdullahi Isa, assured residents of a smooth and hitch-free distribution process.
