President Tinubu Announces N100 Billion Allocation for School Feeding in 2024 Budget

In a significant move aimed at promoting education and tackling malnutrition, President Bola Tinubu revealed on Monday that the 2024 budget includes a substantial N100 billion allocation for school feeding programs. The announcement came during the official signing of the 2024 appropriation bill into law at the State House in Abuja.

President Tinubu emphasized that this financial provision serves as a strategic measure to boost school attendance and address the issue of out-of-school children. Speaking at the event, he stated, “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 enrollment and also address malnutrition among school children.”

To ensure effective implementation, the President expressed his intention to collaborate with local governments at sub-national levels. He highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach, saying, “I will be meeting with local government at sub-national levels so that we can collaborate and jointly implement an all-inclusive program.”

President Tinubu also confirmed that the budget, titled “Renewed Hope,” focuses on reducing recurrent expenditure while increasing capital expenditure. This strategic shift aims to optimize resources and enhance the impact of government spending.

In a move signaling his commitment to education, President Tinubu had earlier in December directed the reinstatement of the school feeding program, transferring its oversight from the Humanitarian Ministry to the Education Ministry. The program, previously halted under former President Muhammadu Buhari, is now positioned within the Education Ministry’s purview. This realignment aims not only to provide nutritious meals to students but also to encourage regular attendance and foster a conducive learning environment.