Kaduna State Government says it spends about N4billion every year to feed school children in the state.
Special Assistant to the Governor on School Feeding, Dr Fauziya Buhari-Ado, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday.
Buhari-Ado said such a huge amount is expended on school feeding in order to check the rising number of out-of-school children in the state.
She also disclosed that over 25,000 students in 51 boarding schools across the 23 local government areas of the state benefit from the programme.
Buhari-Ado added, “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.”
The Kaduna Governor’s aide further stated that the initiative, which has significantly boosted school enrollment and daily attendance rates, has stimulated local economies by sourcing food from local farmers and vendors, providing them with a stable market and contributing to economic growth within the state.
Reiterating government’s resolve to ensure compliance with menu guidelines, food quality, quantity, hygiene standards, and timely service delivery, she noted that millions of naira had been saved as a result of the verification of the beneficiaries of the programme openly and transparently.
Buhari-Ado added that the success of the school feeding programme stands as a testament to Governor Sani’s vision and dedication to the well-being of the people of Kaduna State.
While also stressing 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 programme.
“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.”
