FG To Spend N100 Billion on School Feeding in 2024

Oluwasegun SanusiJanuary 2, 20241 Mins read207

President Bola Tinubu has signed the 2024 appropriation bill into law, unveiling a significant provision of N100 billion allocated to school feeding programs.

During the signing ceremony held at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu highlighted the allocation’s pivotal role in fostering school attendance and combating the issue of out-of-school children.

In his statement, President Tinubu expressed optimism about the positive impact of the provision, stating, “One of the priority areas of the bill we just passed is the N100 billion provision for the feeding of school children. I believe that is a stimulant that will encourage school enrollment and also address malnutrition among school children.”

Furthermore, President Tinubu revealed plans for collaborative efforts with local government bodies at sub-national levels to ensure the effective implementation of an inclusive school feeding program. The President emphasized the need for joint action to guarantee the success and reach of this initiative.

This move follows President Tinubu’s directive in December to reinstate the school feeding program, transferring its oversight from the Humanitarian Ministry to the Education Ministry. The revival of this program, previously halted under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, is said to be intended not only to provide nutritious meals to pupils but also to create an environment conducive to improved attendance and enhanced learning outcomes.

While there are questions surrounding the reasons why the previous administration suspended the program, it should be noted that the new administration has moved its oversight to the Ministry of Education. Citizens and observers alike are asking questions as regards the transparency and sustainability of the program.