Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, on Sunday, flagged off the distribution of palliatives to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.

The distribution was part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 63rd independence anniversary and the 27th year of the creation of the state.

Mr Nwifuru, at the occasion, said the distribution would be replicated at the 13 local government areas of the state.

The governor disclosed that the palliatives include bags of rice, fertilisers, sewing and grinding machines, cooking stoves, insecticide-treated nets, and mattresses, among others.

“The state government has procured vehicles to convey workers to work as part of the palliatives.

“The transportation service will be free as the government will do its best in cushioning the effects of the subsidy removal on the populace,” he said.

He commended President Bola Tinubu on revamping the economy and urged Nigerians to be patient with his policies.

“I solicit continuous support, collaboration, and patience from the citizens to move the state forward.

“We are resolute to revamp, rehabilitate and improve education, health, agriculture, water, internal roads, women affairs among other sectors of the state,” he said.

The team leader of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Kadiri Olarenwaju, said the palliatives were to cushion the effects of the fuel subsidy removal.

“About 9,000 victims of the 2022 flood disaster in the state would also benefit from the distribution,” he said.

(NAN)