Anambra State has received a significant donation of food items from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to support vulnerable individuals amid the prevailing economic challenges.
At a ceremony held at the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency in Awka, NEMA handed over 16,130 50kg bags of maize and 3948 25kg bags of garri from the National Strategic Reserve. The distribution, aimed at cushioning the effects of economic hardship, primarily targeted four local governments: Awka North, Awka South, Dunukofia, and Njikoka.
The event drew officials from NEMA’s South East Zone, representatives from the Anambra State Government, and Transition Committee Chairmen from the state’s 21 local government areas, all committed to ensuring the equitable distribution of the food aid to those in need.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo, speaking through his Chief of Staff, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, emphasized the urgency of the distribution amidst escalating prices of goods. He pledged that the state government, through established committees, would ensure the fair and effective dissemination of the food items to reach those most in need.
Governor Soludo expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Strategic Reserve for their contributions, underscoring the government’s steadfast commitment to citizens’ well-being amid challenging times.
Zubaida Umar, the Director General of NEMA, represented by Major James Eze, highlighted President Tinubu’s approval of the release of 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities from the National Strategic Reserve. This allocation, part of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aims to support vulnerable populations nationwide.
Dr. Paul Odenigbo, the Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, assured efficient distribution through the establishment of 16-man committees in each local government area.
In solidarity, Mr. Onochie Ozonma, representing the Transition Committee Chairmen, affirmed that the food aid complements Governor Soludo’s efforts to prioritize the welfare of Anambra residents. He pledged that the items would reach the most disadvantaged individuals in their respective communities, ensuring that the assistance fulfills its intended purpose.