Governor Mai Mala Buni, CON, has reaffirmed his commitment to food security in Yobe State with the launch of one of the largest food support programmes in the state’s history. The Governor, who has consistently empowered farmers through the provision of modern agricultural machinery, improved seeds, and subsidized fertilizer, is now flagging off a massive Pre-Harvest Food Basket Distribution Drive aimed at reducing hunger and supporting livelihoods.
The Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. Mohammed Goje, confirmed that the distribution exercise will support over 50,000 households and directly impact more than 350,000 residents across Yobe State. He said the initiative is designed to ease economic hardship, enhance food security, and bring relief to households before the harvest season.
According to Dr. Goje, the intervention is targeted at specific groups that form the social and economic foundation of the state. These include 5,580 primary school teachers, 1,780 healthcare workers, 2,400 persons with special needs, 1,200 Tsangaya teachers, 2,000 junior cadre civil servants, 2,000 staff in tertiary institutions, 600 teaching and specialist hospital staff, and 25,500 vulnerable persons across the 17 local government areas.
He stressed that the Pre-Harvest Food Basket Distribution is more than just a palliative. “This initiative is about foresight – preparing households ahead of the harvest season, compassion – ensuring no family is left behind, and a commitment – to human dignity, food security, and a better tomorrow for Yobe,” Dr. Goje stated.
The SEMA Executive Secretary further explained that Governor Buni’s food basket programme is aligned with the administration’s broader vision for sustainable food security and social protection. He described the intervention as a deliberate effort to strengthen the resilience of households and reduce the impact of rising food costs.
“Governor Buni is not just sharing food, he is sharing hope and dignity with the people of Yobe. This initiative is a testament to his compassion and vision for a food-secure future,” Dr. Goje said, emphasising that the distribution will reach families, women, children, elders, and persons with special needs across the state.
Governor Buni is expected to personally flag off the distribution today, signalling the start of the programme.