Federal Government Launches Presidential Food, Nutrition Programme for Vulnerables
The Federal Government has officially flagged off the Presidential Food and Nutrition Assistance Programme in Plateau State, underscoring its dedication to safeguarding vulnerable households amid ongoing challenges of food insecurity, economic pressures, climate disruptions, insecurity, and displacement.
The ceremony, held on Monday in Jos, the state capital, launched the distribution of essential food and nutrition support to affected populations. It forms part of a broader presidential initiative aimed at providing immediate relief while laying the groundwork for long-term resilience.
Leading the intervention, Hon. Dr. Bernard Doro, the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, emphasized a forward-looking approach to humanitarian efforts. He was joined by notable figures including Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and His Excellency Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, the Governor of Plateau State.
In a joint statement, the leaders highlighted the programme’s strategic importance:
“Humanitarian assistance must not end with one-off distribution. It must serve as a bridge into structured social protection systems and sustainable poverty-exit pathways.”
The initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on food security, poverty reduction, and enhanced social protection. Similar flag-offs have occurred in other vulnerable states, reflecting a coordinated national response to hunger and malnutrition.
The programme targets households severely impacted by recent hardships, delivering food items and specialized nutrition support particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers to stabilize communities and promote self-reliance.
Officials expressed optimism that the intervention will not only provide immediate cushioning but also contribute to building enduring pathways out of poverty for Plateau residents and Nigerians at large. Beneficiaries and stakeholders have welcomed the timely support as a step toward greater national resilience.