Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State on Saturday flagged off the distribution of 54,600 bags of rice to cushion the hardship faced by the less privileged during the Ramadan period.

The ceremony, which took place at Maganda Road in Kano, was disclosed in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa.

Speaking at the event, Yusuf described the exercise as a yearly tradition aimed at supporting residents during the holy month of Ramadan.

“It is my singular honour and privilege to be with you today for this annual flag-off of Ramadan support distribution for the year 1447 AH,” the governor said.

He explained that the intervention would cover the 44 local government areas of the state, as well as other selected beneficiaries.

According to him, a total of 91 trucks of rice, equivalent to 54,600 bags of 50kg each, have been approved for distribution.

The governor stated that 44 trucks would be allocated directly to the 44 local government areas, while the remaining 47 trucks would be distributed to selected groups and individuals across the state to assist them during the fasting period.

To ensure transparency and accountability, Yusuf announced the formation of committees at both the state and local government levels to supervise the supply, distribution, and delivery process.

“At the state level, the committee is chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, while the Ministry of Agriculture serves as the coordinating body,” he added.

The governor also called for collaboration from the Federal Government, corporate organisations, and well-meaning individuals to help ease the economic burden on citizens during Ramadan.

In his remarks, the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, commended the governor for what he described as a timely intervention.

“This initiative will significantly reduce anxiety among residents during the holy month and demonstrates genuine concern for the welfare of the people,” Barau said.

Also speaking, the Chairperson of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria in the state, Hajiya Sa’adatu Yushau Soja, appreciated the governor for involving local governments in the distribution exercise.

She assured that the items would be judiciously distributed to the intended beneficiaries across the 44 councils.