Nigeria Launches Emergency Food Aid for Disadvantaged Households in Plateau State

The Federal Government inaugurated the distribution of crucial food and nutrition supplies for vulnerable households in Plateau State on Monday. This initiative represents the final phase of a nationwide effort aimed at alleviating the effects of increasing food scarcity across the nation.

The launch event, held in Jos, was overseen by Dr. Bernard M. Doro, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. He expressed that this initiative is not just a national obligation but also a personal fulfillment.

"Plateau State is my home... the place where I grew up," the Minister stated. He highlighted that the support is directed toward households severely impacted by climatic changes, insecurity, displacements, and financial struggles.

Dr. Doro pointed out that women, children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to recent shocks affecting livelihoods and food systems.

He elaborated that this food and nutrition assistance is part of a larger reform initiative under the One Humanitarian–One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS), a national framework meant to connect emergency aid with long- lasting social security and poverty alleviation strategies.

"Our aim is straightforward: to eliminate the cycle of ongoing humanitarian reliance," he stated while adding that recipients will be registered in the expanded National Social Register to access various programs, including conditional cash transfers, livelihood assistance, skills training, and micro- enterprise funding.

Additionally, he announced collaborative efforts with the Presidency on the 2026 National Anticipatory Action Framework, which will facilitate prompt responses to climate-induced calamities such as flooding.

Dr. Doro expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing the well-being of vulnerable Nigerians within the Renewed Hope Agenda and commended Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, the Governor of Plateau State, for the effective partnership with the federal authorities.

During his address, Governor Mutfwang characterized the program as a necessary support while citizens await the benefits of ongoing national economic reforms. He stated, "The President understands the importance of ensuring that people do not suffer from hunger while awaiting larger results."

The governor underscored the collaborative atmosphere observed at the event, which included the minister, the APC national chairman, and state government representatives, indicating a fresh wave of cooperation.

He assured the APC national chairman of Plateau’s political support and unveiled plans to supply subsidized fertilizer to farmers throughout all local governments to enhance food production.

"It is our duty to the people of Nigeria to produce food as we are the nation's food basket," he expressed.

Furthermore, in remarks made at the occasion, the APC national chairman and former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe YilwatdaGoshwe, indicated that this initiative is part of a N25 billion special fund authorized by the president to assist vulnerable and crisis-stricken communities across the country.

He praised Dr. Doro for efficiently executing the project as intended, referring to it as a continuation of Plateau’s tradition of integrity in public service.

Prof. Goshwe highlighted various social protection accomplishments recorded under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including aid for over 4 million households through health insurance, cash transfers to more than 7 million households, subsidized dialysis services, cancer treatment facilities, and educational loans for nearly one million students.

"The President is determined to ensure that the nation’s poorest citizens receive the necessary support," he remarked, urging continued nationwide backing for the administration.

Dr. Doro emphasized that the food distribution efforts are not just a temporary measure but part of a comprehensive national strategy aimed at restoring dignity, enhancing livelihoods, and ensuring every Nigerian is taken care of.

"This intervention extends beyond immediate food provision today," he stated. "It is about restoring dignity, rebuilding livelihoods, and providing lasting economic opportunities."

The event concluded with the official commencement of food distribution across Plateau State.