The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the distribution of 100 trucks of rice and N1.2 billion in palliative support to vulnerable households across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). 

The initiative, coordinated by the Office of the First Lady in collaboration with the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Political and Other Matters, underscores the administration’s unwavering commitment to social welfare and national inclusion.

Speaking at the event, the host governor, Uba Sani of Kaduna State, described the intervention as a clear demonstration of compassionate leadership and a reflection of the Tinubu administration’s resolve to uplift the most vulnerable.

Mr Sani said the programme was not merely about distributing food items but a reaffirmation that the strength of any society lies in its ability to care for its people, especially those at the margins.

He commended the first lady for her unwavering dedication to humanitarian service, noting that her interventions continue to inspire hope and unity across Nigeria, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or social status.

“Your Excellency, your actions have shown that leadership goes beyond policies to practical compassion that touches lives and restores dignity,” he said.

The governor further lauded President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, describing it as courageous, visionary and committed to national renewal at a critical time in Nigeria’s history.

According to him, the president’s reform agenda, though challenging, is laying a solid foundation for economic recovery, social inclusion and long-term stability.

“Mr President’s leadership reflects a deep understanding of our realities and a firm resolve to secure a better future for generations yet unborn,” Mr Sani added.

In his goodwill message, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe called for sustained support for Mr Tinubu, stressing that his success translates directly into national progress.

Mr Buni highlighted Mr Tinubu’s longstanding contributions to national unity and political development, urging Nigerians, particularly in the North, to rally behind his administration.

“We must support Mr President to succeed because his success is the success of Nigeria,” he said, emphasising that national unity remains non-negotiable.

Also speaking, the programme coordinator, Aminu Sani, urged citizens to remain steadfast in prayer and support for the administration, noting that resilience and collective commitment were key to building a prosperous nation.

He encouraged beneficiaries to utilise palliative support judiciously and to continue to uphold the values of unity, faith and national development.

In his remarks, the interim chairman of the Muslim Intellectuals Forum (MIF), Abdullahi Saleh Usman, commended the first lady for what he described as a demonstration of true leadership and motherly compassion toward Nigerians.

He noted that the palliative distribution went beyond relief materials, describing it as a lifeline and a symbol of hope for vulnerable families facing economic hardship.

Mr Usman assured that the forum would ensure a transparent and equitable distribution process across the 19 northern states and the FCT.

He pledged the group’s continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing optimism that his administration would sustain national progress and offering prayers for the president’s success in future electoral cycles.

Similarly, a forum member, Haliru Maraya, highlighted the importance of food security and the protection of lives as fundamental responsibilities of leadership, noting that the current administration had demonstrated a commitment to these areas.

He pointed to key appointments and interventions that have strengthened northern representation and contributed to stability and development.

Mr Maraya further cited improvements in agriculture, education, and security, including increased access to farmland, reopening of schools, and enhanced safety in previously affected communities.

He reaffirmed support for Mr Tinubu, expressing confidence that ongoing reforms and interventions would continue to yield positive outcomes for the region and the country at large.

The event also drew commendation from stakeholders, including the Muslim Intellectual Forum, for fostering collaboration that translates government policies into tangible benefits for citizens.

The large-scale intervention is widely seen as part of the Tinubu administration’s broader efforts to cushion the effects of economic reforms while promoting inclusive growth.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the president and the first lady, describing the support as timely and impactful amid prevailing economic challenges.

(NAN)