Governor Obaseki Launches N1bn ‘Operation Feed the Hungry’ Initiative in Edo State

In a bid to alleviate the effects of the current economic crunch on residents of Edo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki has officially launched the ‘Operation Feed the Hungry Initiative’ with an initial sum of N1 billion.

The first phase of the program aims to reach over 60,000 people through the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Muslim communities in the state.

During the launch at St. Paul’s Pastoral Centre and Government House in Benin City, Governor Obaseki met with the CAN leadership and the League of Muslim Imams to discuss the implementation of the initiative.

He acknowledged that the current economic hardship is self-inflicted and emphasized the importance of taking action to support those in need.

The governor expressed his belief that the religious bodies are best suited to carry out the program, as they are more accessible to the people and can better identify those in need.

He also assured the clerics that the initiative would be driven by CAN, with funds provided by the government and monitored to ensure the intended goals are met.

To facilitate the pilot phase, a dedicated account will be set up by the state government, with N1 billion allocated for the program.

The governor also emphasized the importance of promoting agricultural opportunities and ensuring that the government will buy all the produce from the farmers, particularly those with protein.

In response to the initiative, the Archbishop of Benin Catholic Church Diocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, thanked Governor Obaseki for his efforts in assisting the poor and hungry.

The Chairman of CAN in the state, Apostle (Dr) Irekpono Omoike, pledged their support in making sure that the targeted persons are those who will truly benefit from the program.

Similarly, the Chief Imam of Benin Central Mosque, Mallam Abdulfatai Enabulele, commended the governor for the initiative and pledged the support of the Muslim community in making it a success.

The ‘Operation Feed the Hungry Initiative’ launched by Governor Obaseki in Edo State is a commendable step towards addressing the economic hardship faced by residents and providing much-needed support to the needy.

Through the collaboration between the government and religious bodies, the program is expected to make a significant impact in alleviating hunger and promoting economic opportunities in the state.