Dr. Folake Olatunji-David, Director of Basic Education at the Federal Ministry of Education, has provided reassurance to Nigerians regarding the suspended school feeding programme initiated by the Federal Government.
Following the suspension of all programmes under the National Social Investment Programme Agency by President Bola Tinubu on January 12, which included the Home Grown School Feeding Programme, among others, concerns have lingered regarding the fate of these crucial initiatives.
A statement released by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, cited ongoing investigations into alleged malfeasance as the reason behind the suspension.
Despite nine weeks having passed since the suspension, there has been no resumption of the programmes, leaving many anxious about the welfare of beneficiaries, particularly schoolchildren who rely on the feeding scheme.
However, speaking at the launch of the Create That Change Development Initiative, Dr. Olatunji-David provided assurance that the school feeding programme would soon be reinstated, promising improvements and expanded coverage.
Highlighting the ongoing planning efforts to ensure effective implementation, Dr. Olatunji-David emphasised the importance of meticulous preparation to guarantee the success of the programme once directives are received.
She stated, “Before now, it only covered a segment of primary school. The president has said it will be for basic education in its entirety. We are planning. We don’t just want to come out without planning to ensure that as soon as we receive the directives, proper implementation is done.”
Commending the efforts of the Create That Change Development Initiative, Dr. Olatunji-David emphasised the significance of initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being and development of children, adolescents, and society as a whole.
Meanwhile, the founder of the NGO, Mrs. Sharon Ayeni, expressed her commitment to addressing pressing challenges in Nigeria, particularly in eradicating poverty and supporting those in need.
With a vision to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and youth, Ayeni outlined the organisation’s ambitious plans, including the implementation of various initiatives such as the Enhancing Nutrition, Exercise, and Reading Initiative (ENERI) across the nation.
The resumption of the school feeding programme holds significant promise for vulnerable communities across Nigeria, offering hope for improved access to nutrition and education for children.
