The Federal Government has included a N100 billion allocation in the 2024 budget for the continuation of the school feeding programme.
President Bola Tinubu made this known on Monday, January 1, during the signing of the 2024 appropriation bill into law in the State House, Abuja.
He said the provision will serve as a stimulant to encourage attendance in schools and reduce the problem of out-of-school children.
Tinubu said; “One of the priority areas of the bill we just passed is the N100 billion provision for the feeding of school children. I believe that is a stimulant that will encourage school enrolment and also address malnutrition among school children.
“I will be meeting with local government at sub-national levels so that we can collaborate and jointly implement an all-inclusive programme”.
The President also confirmed that the budget, themed “Renewed Hope” is anchored on reducing the recurrent expenditure while increasing capital expenditure.
Recall that in December 2023, Tinubu ordered the reintroduction of the school feeding programme and mandated its transfer from the Humanitarian Ministry to the Education Ministry.
The administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari halted the programme, but the Tinubu-led FG said it aims to not only provide nutritious meals to pupils but also encourage attendance and enhance learning.