In a bid to alleviate the economic burden on its residents due to the escalating cost of living, the Lagos State Government has announced a new initiative to engage local canteens, commonly known as “Mama Put,” to provide meals for 1,000 to 1,500 residents daily in each of the local government areas across the state.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu shared this information during a media chat on Thursday, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by the increasing cost of essential goods and services, which has led to protests in various cities across the country.
Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that this initiative, reminiscent of measures taken during the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to identify and collaborate with local caterers, specifically the popular “Mama Put” establishments. The government plans to provide meals to residents, numbering between 1,000 and 1,500 individuals per day in every local government area for an initial period of 30 to 60 days.
During the media briefing, the governor emphasized the practical aspects of the plan, stating, “We are identifying the caterers already. Funds will be sent to them, and they will have vouchers to show that people can walk in and receive a meal once a day. Let’s just continue on that.”
The initiative is poised to provide immediate relief to vulnerable residents facing economic hardships and food insecurity. The logistics of the program are currently being worked out, with the government ensuring a seamless process from the identification of caterers to the distribution of funds and vouchers for the provision of daily meals.
