The Oyo State Government has commenced the distribution of subsidised food items to civil and public servants as part of measures to ease the impact of economic hardship during the Yuletide season.
The state Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, announced the initiative in a statement released on Sunday in Ibadan.
According to Oyelade, the intervention is designed to make essential food items such as rice, vegetable oil, chicken and other staples more affordable for workers, especially in the face of prevailing economic challenges.
“This intervention is to cushion the effects of the current economic realities on workers and ensure they enjoy a more comfortable festive season,” Oyelade said.
“It aligns with the welfare-focused agenda of the state government to improve the standard of living of our workforce and enhance food affordability.”
He explained that the programme, being implemented through the Agricultural Credit Corporation of Oyo State, will make subsidised food items worth about ₦100 million available to interested state workers.
Oyelade noted that only workers who have formally indicated interest will benefit from the scheme, adding that proper collation of beneficiaries by the accounts sections of various ministries is key to ensuring transparency.
“The initiative is strictly for state workers who have indicated interest, and beneficiaries must be duly collated by their respective ministries to guarantee a smooth and transparent process,” he said.
The commissioner added that payments for the commodities will be made through salary deductions, which will commence in February 2026.
“This arrangement is structured to reduce the financial burden on workers while maintaining accountability,” Oyelade stated.
The state government said the scheme forms part of broader efforts by the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde to prioritise workers’ welfare and promote social support during the festive period.
