The Federal Government has revealed plans to revive the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, aiming to benefit more than 10 million children nationwide.
Dr. Yetunde Adeniji, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu, speaking on the programme, disclosed the information during her visit to an Internal Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp located at the Transitional Learning Center in Wassa, Abuja.
The school feeding programme, which has garnered attention and support from organizations like Maple Leaf Early Years Foundation and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and IDPs, will play a pivotal role in ensuring that no child attending a public school is left without nourishment.
Dr. Adeniji commended the programme at Wassa for its proven success in increasing school enrollment and attendance rates, acknowledging its significant impact on education, hunger alleviation, and breaking the cycle of poverty.
Under President’s renewed hope agenda, the school feeding initiative has its sights set on pupils in primarily one to three throughout Nigeria.
She emphasized the programme’s alignment with the belief that every child deserves a chance to thrive and contribute to the nation’s development.
The school feeding programme will also empower smallholder farmers, who will supply foodstuff for the initiative once it commences. This approach is part of the programme’s broader objectives, which include enhancing resilience, promoting equity, stimulating economic growth, and reducing poverty.
Dr. Adeniji stressed that the school feeding programme is a transforming force in realizing the Renewed Hope Vision. Beyond addressing childhood nutrition, it serves as an incentive for families to prioritize education.
The FG has committed a substantial budget to the school feeding programme, with complementary contributions expected from state governments.
Dr. Adeniji urged more collaboration with relevant agencies and expressed deep gratitude to organizations like Plane, UNESCO and various stakeholders who have contributed to this noble endeavour.
The government’s commitment to the welfare and development of the nation’s youth is exemplified through this initiative, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for Nigeria.
