We Didn’t Receive N5bn as Palliative From FG – Katsina Govt

Katsina State Government has dispelled claims of receiving N5 billion for grain procurement and distribution, clarifying that the actual amount received from the federal government’s palliative program was N2 billion. The State Commissioner of Information, Culture, and Home Affairs, Mr. Bala Salisu-Zango, provided these details during a press briefing, emphasizing the responsible use of the disbursed amount.

Mr Salisu-Zango explained that the N2 billion had already been employed to procure essential goods, which were then distributed to alleviate the plight of the state’s populace. The commissioner highlighted that the federal government’s initial plan was to allocate N5 billion for acquiring rice, maize, and fertilizers for distribution across various states. Read More: https://legalattorneyblog.com/2023/08/08/fgs-n5bn-subsidy-removal-palliative-to-states-revealed-to-be-a-loan/

However, through collaborative consultations with state governors, it was collectively decided to directly allocate the funds to states. This strategic move aimed to expedite the procurement process and stimulate local economies. Consequently, the funds were explicitly designated for rice and maize acquisition.

Furthermore, the commissioner disclosed that the Central Bank of Nigeria had been directed to provide the funds as a soft loan, with the federal government shouldering 52% of the repayment responsibility and states contributing 48%, disbursed over 12 months.

Salisu-Zango affirmed that Katsina State, under the leadership of Governor Dikko Radda, had effectively utilized the N2 billion received. This led to the procurement of 40,000 bags of rice, intended for distribution across each state’s polling unit.

In addition, he highlighted Governor Radda’s prior directive to local government councils, compelling them to distribute maize to citizens without charge, an initiative that has already been executed.

Amidst the clarifications, the citizens of Katsina State were reassured by Salisu-Zango, who conveyed the government’s intention to remain transparent and diligent in handling the palliative funds. He affirmed that once the next tranche of funds is received from the federal government, the state government will proceed to procure maize and facilitate equitable distribution.

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