Obaseki launches N1bn monthly feeding programme for residents
The Edo state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, weekend, launched a N1 billion monthly feeding initiative for poor residents.
Obaseki claimed that the exercise is not political, but for God and humanity.
He stated that government officials would not be involved in the utilisation of the fund and distribution of food items to residents.
The governor said the exercise would be implemented by Christian leaders in the state, because according to him, “when people are hungry, they don’t come to the government house, but go the Church.”
Obaseki also noted: “We are also doing something similar for the muslims because we want an all inclusive Edo where everyone who live here should feel they are part of the state.”
Continuing, he said: “I had a meeting with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Edo State and I said I will give them 1billion naira every month for the first three months.
“We looked at the poverty map in Edo, how many poor people we can feed. Do you have churches in this areas and how can we reach them.?
“So, I am here because I don’t like commissioning, but the chairman (CAN) said that we want you to come so the people can know that this programme exist.
“But What we are doing is a duty of government and the only difference here is the church that is procuring the items and you are not taken the money out of Edo state.”
In his remarks, Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) who is also Chairman, Organising Committee, Apostle Irekpono Omoike, thanked the governor for the initiative.
He said 10kg of 60,000 bags rice been purchased for onward distribution.