As Muslims across Nigeria begin the annual Ramadan fast, state governments have rolled out relief packages to ease the burden on fasting citizens. Findings reveal that the governors of Sokoto, Jigawa, Katsina, and Kano have collectively approved over N16 billion for Ramadan feeding programs and palliatives.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, officially declared Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the first day of Ramadan after confirming moon sightings across multiple regions. He announced from his palace that reports of the crescent moon had been verified and accepted by the council, marking the beginning of Ramadan 1446.
Following the Sultan’s announcement, some states began immediate distribution of food and financial aid, while others finalized plans to commence in the coming days.
The Sokoto State Government has earmarked N1.28 billion for Ramadan feeding and relief distribution. According to the state’s Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Maihula, this initiative aligns with Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s commitment to poverty alleviation and religious empowerment.
Governor Aliyu expanded the number of feeding centers from 130 to 155, with a budget of N998 million dedicated to feeding 20,000 fasting residents daily. Essential food items such as rice, millet, chicken, bean cakes (akara), fruits, water, and dates will be provided.
Additionally, N285 million has been allocated for direct financial assistance to Islamic clerics, scholars, and organizations. A breakdown of the disbursement includes: 300 senior Islamic scholars receiving N200,000 each, 100 Ulamas receiving N100,000 each, 2,900 grassroots Islamic teachers receiving N50,000 each, 150 Islamic organizations receiving N300,000 each, Jum’at Imams receiving five bags of maize and N100,000 each, Na’ibs (Deputy Imams) receiving three bags of maize and N50,000 each and Mu’adhins (prayer callers) receiving two bags of maize and N50,000 each
A total of 990 bags of maize have been distributed across 90 Jum’at mosques in Sokoto metropolis. In his Ramadan message, Governor Aliyu urged affluent individuals to establish private Ramadan feeding centers to complement the government’s efforts.
The Jigawa State Government has announced a N4.8 billion Ramadan relief package to support vulnerable citizens during the fasting period. State Commissioner for Information, Sagir Musa, confirmed that the program is jointly funded by the state and local governments.
This year’s initiative includes an increase in feeding centers from 609 to 630. Each center will provide three daily meals, including kunu (millet porridge), kosai (bean cakes), and jollof rice, catering to 300 people per center.
Musa emphasized that the initiative aims to provide crucial support for the less privileged, ensuring that fasting Muslims receive adequate nourishment throughout the holy month.
In Katsina, the state government has approved N2.3 billion for the procurement of grains and essential food supplies. According to the Commissioner for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Ahmed Bakori, the grains will be distributed both freely to elderly citizens and at subsidized prices to the general public.
Similarly, the Kano State Government has allocated N8 billion for its Ramadan feeding program. Governor Abba Yusuf flagged off the initiative with the distribution of 1,250 cartons of dates donated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at a ceremony held at the Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano.
According to the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa, the feeding program will provide daily meals to thousands of fasting residents across the state.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has distributed 250,000 bags of rice and grains as palliatives to support fasting Muslims. Special Assistant on Print and Digital Media, Abdurrahman Bundi, confirmed that the beneficiaries span across the state’s 27 local government areas.
The initiative is particularly aimed at mitigating the impact of last year’s devastating floods, which affected many businesses and livelihoods. Approximately 100,000 residents in Maiduguri and its surrounding areas will benefit, while another 150,000 will receive assistance across 25 local councils.
Bundi also confirmed that Governor Zulum personally supervised the distribution, ensuring that the aid reached the intended beneficiaries.
Nasarawa state government has also provided financial aid to ministries, departments, and agencies for Ramadan support. A senior official, who spoke anonymously, confirmed that Governor Abdullahi Sule approved the funds as part of his ongoing commitment to assisting fasting Muslims.
Also, the Plateau State Government is finalizing plans to distribute grains and other relief packages to the Muslim community. A Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) official stated that government representatives assured them that distribution would commence soon.
The Osun State Government is preparing welfare packages for both Ramadan and Lent. Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed that distribution will begin in the coming days.
Gombe governor Muhammadu Yahaya has established distribution committees to oversee Ramadan palliative distribution. The Secretary to the Government, Prof. Ibrahim Njodi, stated that the committees will ensure an effective and transparent distribution process.