Dr Fauziya Buhari-Ado, the Special Assistant to the Kaduna State Governor on School food, stated that N4 billion is spent on school food each year in an effort to reduce the state’s growing number of out-of-school children.
Buhari-Ado revealed this in a statement made accessible to newsmen in Abuja on Sunday.
She noted that the programme benefits nearly 25,000 students in 51 boarding institutions across 23 local government areas.
She said, “No fewer than 25,000 students in 51 boarding schools across the 23 local government areas benefit from the programme since the feeding cost was improved from N540 per child per day to N700 per child per day, translating to about N4 billion annual spending.”
She went on to say that the programme, which has dramatically increased school enrollment and daily attendance rates, has stimulated local economies by procuring food from local farmers and vendors, giving them a steady market and contributing to the state’s economic progress.
Reiterating her commitment to ensuring menu compliance, food quality, quantity, cleanliness standards, and timely service delivery, she stated that the state government had saved millions of naira as a result of open and transparent verification of programme participants.
She stated that the success of the school feeding programme demonstrates Governor Sani’s vision and commitment to the well-being of the people of Kaduna State.
Highlighting the essence of the programme, she noted, “In these challenging times, our schools have become beacons of hope and safety for our children. The school feeding program has relieved parents of the burden of providing for their children’s basic needs, ensuring that no child goes hungry.
“This act alone sends a powerful signal that Kaduna State stands as one, united people. Our children come from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, yet they thrive as one, sleeping together, eating together, and studying together with no differences.
“This unity is the cornerstone of our strength as a state, and it is exemplified through initiatives like the school feeding program.”
She added, “Furthermore, the economic impact of the school feeding programme cannot be overlooked. It has not only created opportunities for local food vendors and suppliers but has also stimulated growth in our local economies.
“Kaduna State stands tall amongst all states, as we proudly boast of providing free meals to our future leaders. This translates to about 20 million free meals served yearly.”