300,000 vulnerable families benefit from free food scheme in Osun – Oyetola

Gov. Gboyega Oyetola of Osun, says more than 300,000 vulnerable households have benefitted from the monthly food support scheme of the state government from inception.

Oyetola made this disclosure during the 10th edition of the food support scheme on Friday in Osogbo.

The governor, represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Wole Oyebamiji, said the scheme was initiated to cushion the effects of the national economic downturn on vulnerable citizens of the state.

Oyetola, who noted that nothing would stop the initiative, said he is committed to championing the welfare and general well-being of the people, particularly the vulnerables.

He said that the positive feedback received from the beneficiaries of the food support had justified its noble intent.

Oyetola said the scheme had in the last 10 months of its inauguration, contributed to the economy of the state and general welfare and well-being of the vulnerable citizens, who were the direct beneficiaries.

“As you all know, this is the 10th edition of the programme and by implications, over 300,000 family units of vulnerable citizens and households have been fed and benefited through this laudable initiative.

“I can assure our people that this promise will continue as long as we are in government.

“This is not done because we are in election year, we have been doing this in the last 10 months and I can assure our people that nothing will stop this,” he said.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties, Mr Lekan Badmus, lauded the governor for placing the scheme on his priority list.

Badmus disclosed that the market approach adopted to further strengthen the distribution of the foods had earned the government applause, as beneficiaries were excited and prayed for its continuity.

“As we all know, during the official flag-off of this Scheme, Mr. Governor actually mentioned that the programme will run throughout his tenure in office.

“And to actualise this, Mr Governor has actually shown capacity and genuineness, and you will agree with me that foods are being shared among the 300,000 vulnerable citizens in the state on a monthly basis,” he said.