Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday flagged off the distribution of 100 trucks of rice and N1.2bn in palliative support for vulnerable households across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
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The intervention, organised in collaboration with the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Political and Other Matters, led by Ibrahim Masari, is aimed at cushioning hardship among vulnerable Muslim communities during the festive period.
The move comes at a time when public discourse has increasingly reflected scepticism toward palliative measures, with the now-viral “give them rice” sentiment used online to mock what many see as short-term responses to deeper economic challenges. Despite this backdrop, the Presidency maintains that such interventions are necessary to provide immediate relief.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Kaduna, the First Lady said the gesture reflects the spirit of sacrifice, compassion and solidarity associated with Eid-el-Kabir.
“As we approach Eid-el-Kabir, a season of sacrifice, compassion and gratitude, this intervention translates the message of the season into palliatives for vulnerable Muslim communities across all northern states and the Federal Capital Territory,” she said.
She disclosed that both the rice and the cash support would be distributed through state coordinating committees to ensure they reach the intended beneficiaries.
“I am pleased to formally flag off the distribution of 100 trucks of rice and the sum of N1.2bn to the 19 northern states and the FCT. May these palliatives bring succour and comfort to every home that benefits from this gesture,” she added.
According to her, the initiative follows a similar intervention carried out on December 23, 2025, when palliatives were distributed to Christian communities in Northern Nigeria, noting that the programme reflects inclusiveness.
She reiterated that the administration of Bola Tinubu remains committed to implementing reforms that will yield sustainable benefits for Nigerians, while also commending Masari for coordinating the programme.
In his remarks, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, described the initiative as a demonstration of compassionate leadership and national unity.
“Together, President Bola Tinubu and the First Lady exemplify a model of leadership anchored on service, compassion and national unity,” he said.
Sani added that his administration would continue to cushion the impact of economic reforms through support for small and medium enterprises, youth empowerment, agricultural development and sustained investment in security.
He also urged Muslim faithful to remain patient and united amid prevailing economic challenges, while calling on religious and community leaders to promote peace, brotherhood and mutual support across the country.
