Governor Mai Mala Buni has kicked off activities for 2026 with the distribution of New Year food support to 2,000 tricycle (Keke) riders, GSM phone repairers, and other vulnerable groups across Yobe State. The exercise is being carried out by the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, following a directive from the governor.
The distribution began on Wednesday, 1st January 2026, as a New Year goodwill gesture designed to ease household food needs and support informal sector workers who contribute daily to the local economy. According to SEMA, each beneficiary is receiving a bag of rice, assorted grains, and a carton of pasta.
Beneficiaries were selected through the leadership of tricycle riders’ unions and GSM phone repairers’ associations to promote transparency, fairness, and proper coordination. Officials said this approach ensured that support reached those who genuinely need it across different communities in the state.
Speaking during the distribution, the Executive Secretary of SEMA, Dr. Goje, congratulated beneficiaries on the New Year and advised them to remain positive and responsible citizens. He said, “I urge you to be good ambassadors of your communities, promote peace, cooperate with security agencies, and remain law abiding in support of safety and sustainable development.”
The intervention marks the first humanitarian support activity of 2026 under the Governor Mai Mala Buni administration. SEMA explained that the food support forms part of a broader ongoing social support programme targeting over 50,000 households across all Local Government Areas of Yobe State.
The New Year gesture reflects the administration’s commitment.
