FG Expands Palliative Distribution to Students and FCT Residents
By Patience Ikpeme
The Federal Government has expanded its palliative program to include students nationwide and residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), building upon the successful distribution in Imo State.
Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, announced the initiative during a recent distribution event. “These palliatives serve as a bridge while our comprehensive economic reforms take root,” she stated, emphasizing that the program aims to address immediate needs while the government implements its broader economic reform agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
The palliative distribution has reached a wide range of beneficiaries across the FCT’s Area Councils, including student bodies such as the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the Nigerian Female Students Association (NFSAN), and NANS alumni networks. In addition, women associations, community organizations, and vulnerable groups within the FCT have received support.
The distribution in the FCT follows a successful rollout in Imo State, where thousands of bags of palliatives were distributed across all 27 Local Government Areas, reaching religious institutions, community groups, women organizations, youth associations, and vulnerable populations.
“As both a public servant and resident of the FCT, I understand the immediate needs of our communities,” said Dr. Uzoka-Anite.
The Minister emphasized that the palliative distribution aligns with President Tinubu’s commitment to alleviating the immediate impact of economic reforms while building a more sustainable economic foundation for Nigeria.
Commending the initiative, Mr. Sunday Asefon, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, praised Dr. Uzoka-Anite’s commitment to student welfare. “Dr. Uzoka-Anite has demonstrated remarkable understanding of students’ challenges in these times. Her proactive approach in extending these palliatives to students nationwide shows the Tinubu Administration’s dedication to supporting Nigerian students while implementing necessary economic reforms,” he stated.
This expanded palliative program demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing support to vulnerable populations during the implementation of critical economic reforms. By addressing immediate needs while laying the foundation for long-term sustainable development, the government aims to ensure that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably across all segments of Nigerian society.