The program, which commenced in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, earlier today, saw beneficiaries drawn across several segments of society enjoy up to 30% subsidy on basic food items.
Subsidized Food items under the Scheme include Rice, sold for ₦2300 as against 3,000 in the market; Beans sold for ₦2700 as against 3,300 in the market; yam sold for ₦1000 per tuber, as against 1,500 in the market and Garri, sold for ₦750, as against 1100 in the market.
Not less than 20 beneficiaries were present at the first phase of the program.
Speaking at the event, the Program Officer, Abdullah Folaranmi, noted that the initiative plans to continue subsidizing food items by up to 30 percent, compared to costs in the market. This, he said, is in line with efforts to ease the cost of living for low-income earners in society.
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One of the beneficiaries of the scheme, Oguntoke Usman, expressed his joy and satisfaction over what he got while stressing that she was afraid when he came across the food subsidy news online.
He further prayed for the organizers of the program while charging them not to rest on their oars by making the program a continuous one.
Another beneficiary, Musa Toheeb, also thanked the organizers of the program for the initiative saying the gesture will greatly benefit the masses considering this harsh economy.
He further urged the government to key into an initiative like this, as it will go a long way in easing the effect of economic hardship on people.
The scheme, according to organizers, will be a monthly program to reach 100 families each month.