PHOTOS: World Food Programme (WFP) To Feed 500000 Vulnerable Nigerians In COVID-19 Hotspots In Kano, Lagos And Abuja—As part of its contribution to humanity, an agency of the United Nations, World Food Programme (WFP) in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria has embarked on food and cash assistance to the most vulnerable Nigerians in three urban COVID-19 hotspots of Abuja, Kano and Lagos.
The Genius Media Nigeria reports that the joint humanitarian project will cost US$4 Million. Nigerian government will provide 2,000 metric tons of food from her Strategic Grain Reserve valued at US$1 million while World Food Programme (WFP) provides US$3 million for cash support.
The imminent danger and threat of hunger, starvation and its consequent health crisis from the COVID-19 pandemic propelled the compassionate gesture.
The joint benevolent project is the first time the UN agency (WFP) is collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development to reach people in towns and cities who are facing socio-economic deprivation as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At the launch of the programme and commencement of assitance to 67,000 vulnerable people in Kano on Monday, the Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje said: “…..This partnership has enabled us to save the lives of thousands of people in Kano State during these difficult times.”
Also speaking at the launch in kano, WFP Country Director and Representative, Mr. Paul Howe said: “The government of Nigeria has shown great commitment and leadership in responding to this crisis. This is exactly what we need during this time of pandemic and beyond to achieve Zero Hunger in Nigeria.”
Howe further stated that in the coming weeks and months, the programme will continue to work with the governments of Abuja and Lagos to support the most vulnerable families.
In strict addherance to COVID 19 Protocols, WFP arranged for home deliveries of cash and food in Kano using the local ‘ke-ke‘ rickshaw service (pre-paid debit cards or online bank transfers). Food items delivered to the beneficiaries includes 25 kilograms of rice, millet and Sorghum.
Meanwhile, Lagos State government will partner WFP to deliver food using boats to reach families living in the riverine community of Makoko on Thursday, October 8 2020.
The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies, building prosperity and supporting a sustainable future for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.
