Dr Fauziya Buhari-Ado, the Special Assistant to the Kaduna State Governor on School Feeding, revealed that the state spends N4bn every year on school feeding as part of efforts to address the increasing number of out-of-school children in the region.
The information was shared by Buhari-Ado in a statement released in Abuja on Sunday.
She mentioned that the program benefits over 25,000 students in 51 boarding schools spread across the 23 local government areas.
According to her, “More than 25,000 students in 51 boarding schools across the 23 local government areas have been benefitting from the program since the feeding cost per child per day was raised from N540 to N700, resulting in an annual expenditure of about N4 billion.”
She emphasized that the initiative, which has had a positive impact on school enrollment and daily attendance rates, has also stimulated the local economy by supporting local farmers and vendors, thus contributing to economic growth in the state.
To ensure adherence to menu guidelines, food quality, quantity, hygiene standards, and prompt service delivery, she reiterated the state government’s commitment to transparently verifying the program beneficiaries, resulting in significant cost savings.
She credited the success of the school feeding program to Governor Sani’s commitment to the well-being of Kaduna State residents.
Highlighting the significance of the program, she remarked, “In these challenging times, our schools serve as havens of hope and security for our children. The school feeding program has lightened the burden on parents by providing for their children’s basic needs, guaranteeing that no child suffers from hunger.
“This singular act sends a powerful message of unity across Kaduna State. Despite the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of our children, they flourish together, living, eating, and learning side by side without distinction.
“This unity is the bedrock of our state’s strength, exemplified through initiatives like the school feeding program.”
She added, “Moreover, we cannot overlook the economic benefits of the school feeding program. Aside from creating opportunities for local food vendors and suppliers, it has spurred growth in our local economies.
“Kaduna State leads the way by providing free meals to our future leaders, serving approximately 20 million free meals annually.”