First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has launched the National Community Food Bank Programme in Cross River State as part of efforts to address food insecurity and malnutrition among vulnerable Nigerians.
The programme was inaugurated in Calabar on Friday, with three food banks commencing operations simultaneously across the state.
According to the First Lady, the initiative is targeted at children below six years, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers who require additional nutritional support.
Tinubu disclosed that 1,179 people had already been enrolled in the intervention, while 2,089 food packages had been distributed.
She described the programme as a deliberate response to the nutritional challenges facing vulnerable households.
The First Lady also urged state governments to adopt the initiative in their respective jurisdictions to expand its reach and ensure more Nigerians benefit.
She said the programme aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its focus on food security, healthcare and improved living conditions.
The Cross River launch brings the National Community Food Bank Programme to five geopolitical zones in the country.
The initiative is expected to extend its operations to the remaining geopolitical zone as the Federal Government continues efforts to tackle food-related challenges among vulnerable communities.
The programme is designed to provide nutritional assistance to families while supporting healthier development among children and mothers.
Also in Calabar, Tinubu inaugurated a TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative ICT Experience Centre at the University of Cross River.
The centre is already operational and features innovation and technology laboratories alongside an engineering workshop.
It is expected to provide young Nigerians with opportunities to develop ICT-related skills, explore innovation and gain practical experience in technology and engineering.
The First Lady also announced a N500 million relief package for businesses affected by the recent fire disaster at the Calabar Mall.
Under the intervention, 18 affected business owners will receive N25 million each from the Federal Government.
An additional N50 million will be provided to women’s groups in Cross River State.
The support is aimed at helping affected businesses recover from losses caused by the fire incident.
Tinubu also met with members of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council as part of her visit to the state.
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During the engagement, she highlighted the role traditional institutions can play in communicating government policies and programmes to communities.
She encouraged traditional rulers to help bridge the gap between government initiatives and residents at the grassroots.
The Chairman of the Cross River Traditional Council and Paramount Ruler of Abi Local Government Area, HRM Ovai Solomon Edward, expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s policies and programmes.
The First Lady’s visit formed part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to promote food security, digital skills, social welfare and economic support for vulnerable Nigerians.