Chidinma Iroegbu
The Plateau State Government has approved and disbursed N300 million for the distribution of Sallah palliatives to vulnerable Muslims across the state, in a move aimed at easing economic pressure and supporting inclusive welfare during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The intervention comes as Muslims prepare to mark the end of the 30-day Ramadan fasting period, with the government positioning the initiative as part of its social support and religious inclusiveness policy.
The palliative programme covers all 17 local government areas of the state, ensuring a wide reach among targeted beneficiaries ahead of the festive period.
Items distributed include staple food commodities such as rice, millet and spaghetti, procured for onward allocation to households across communities.
Special Adviser on Intergovernmental Affairs, Abubakar Yahaya Kanam, who also chairs the Sallah Palliative Distribution Committee, announced the rollout in Jos on Tuesday.
Kanam said the beneficiaries were carefully selected to include vulnerable women, youths and religious leaders within the Muslim community.
He disclosed that 24 liaison officers appointed across constituencies were engaged to profile beneficiaries, a step he said was introduced to strengthen transparency and accountability in the exercise.
Highlighting the intent of the initiative, he said, “We gather to demonstrate the mercy and benevolence of government to the Muslim community and to show that we stand united.”
Kanam noted that the N300 million allocation underscores the administration’s commitment to welfare, adding that the distribution would be carried out in phases to expand coverage.
“We are not God, so we cannot capture everybody, but we will do our best to ensure fairness and diligence,” he said, while urging beneficiaries to support government efforts.
He further appealed for unity among residents and reminded citizens that the intervention is funded with public resources, stressing the need for collective responsibility and cooperation.