The Sokoto State Government has initiated an N1 billion subsidized food program aimed at providing affordable groceries to civil servants and low-income individuals in six local government areas of the state.

During a training session for shop facilitators on Monday, the Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Dadi-Adare, stressed that the program is intended to enhance the welfare of workers.

Dadi-Adare urged facilitators to maintain transparency and adhere to established guidelines to ensure the program's success and sustainability.

He also highlighted that under Gov. Ahmad Aliyu's administration, significant investments have been made in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and water supply, while also addressing security challenges.

The commissioner noted that the government had introduced various relief measures, including the subsidized sale of rice, free distribution of agricultural inputs, and substantial security investments.

In his address, the Committee Chairman, Alhaji Chiso Dattijo, disclosed that the pilot phase of the initiative targets state and local government employees, as well as primary school teachers.

He mentioned that the six local government areas selected for the pilot are Dange Shuni, Wamakko, Bodinga, Kware, Sokoto North, and Sokoto South, with plans to expand to other areas.

Dattijo stated that each worker would be eligible to purchase commodities worth up to 30 percent of their monthly salary, with a limit of N15,000 in the coming weeks.

He added that a consultant has been hired to manage the online platforms, handle credit card issuance, process payments, and carry out biometric registrations. He further noted that the stores are well-stocked and commodities will soon be available for purchase.

“Only registered individuals will be allowed to buy the items, and deductions will be made directly from workers’ salaries through the Ministry of Finance.” Dattijo urged workers to cooperate with the managers, visit the stores in person, and report any irregularities to the committee.