As the annual Ramadan fast began on Saturday, state governments across Nigeria have launched relief packages for Islamic clerics, organizations, and Muslim residents
Governors in Sokoto, Jigawa, Katsina, and Kano have collectively allocated over N16 billion for Ramadan feeding and palliatives.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, officially declared Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the first day of Ramadan after confirming widespread moon sightings. Following his announcement, several states intensified efforts to distribute food and financial aid to Muslims observing the holy month.
Sokoto Allocates N1.28bn for Ramadan Support
The Sokoto State Government has earmarked N1.28 billion for feeding and relief distribution. Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Maihula, said Governor Ahmed Aliyu expanded Ramadan feeding centers from 130 to 155 and allocated N998 million to provide daily meals for 20,000 fasting residents. The initiative also includes N285 million for direct financial support to Islamic scholars, clerics, and religious organizations.
As part of the plan, 300 senior Islamic scholars will receive N200,000 each, 100 Ulamas will get N100,000 each, while 2,900 grassroots Islamic teachers will receive N50,000 each. Islamic organizations will be given N300,000 each, and mosque leaders such as Jum’at Imams, Na’ibs (deputy Imams), and Mu’adhins (prayer callers) will receive financial aid and maize supplies.
Jigawa Unveils N4.8bn Ramadan Package
The Jigawa State Government has approved N4.8 billion for Ramadan support, with funding shared between the state and local government councils. Commissioner for Information, Sagir Musa, said feeding centers have been increased from 609 to 630, with thousands expected to benefit. The program will provide three daily meals, including Kunu, Kosai, and Jollof rice, for 300 people per center.
Katsina, Kano Allocate N10.3bn for Ramadan Aid
Katsina State has set aside N2.3 billion for purchasing grains and essential commodities, some of which will be distributed free to the elderly while others will be sold at subsidized rates.
In Kano, Governor Abba Yusuf announced an N8 billion allocation for the Ramadan feeding program. Speaking at the distribution of 1,250 cartons of dates donated by Saudi Arabia, Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting fasting Muslims.
Borno Distributes 250,000 Bags of Rice
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has provided 250,000 bags of rice and grains as Ramadan palliatives to cushion the economic hardship faced by residents. According to his media aide, Abdurrahman Bundi, the initiative targets 100,000 people in Maiduguri and over 150,000 residents across 25 local government areas.
Other States Launch Ramadan Relief Programs
- Nasarawa: The state government has provided financial aid to Muslim residents, though details remain undisclosed.
- Plateau: The government is preparing to distribute grains and other relief materials to the Muslim community.
- Osun: Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, announced that the government is preparing Ramadan and Lent packages for workers.
- Gombe: Governor Muhammadu Yahaya has established palliative distribution committees to ensure smooth relief distribution during Ramadan.
With these initiatives, state governments aim to support Muslims during the fasting period, ensuring access to food and financial assistance throughout Ramadan.
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