By Ibrahim Muhammad Kano The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) recently held a stakeholders' meeting in Kano's...
By Ibrahim Muhammad Kano
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) recently held a stakeholders' meeting in Kano's Dala Local Government Area to address the diversion of relief materials meant for vulnerable communities.
The meeting focused on reports that some individuals have been selling donated items, including medicines, school bags, and nutritional food intended for malnourished children.
A senior UNICEF official, Mr. Adeyinka Adeosun, lamented the diversion of these essential items, describing the act as "unwanted, unpatriotic, and unbecoming."
He expressed concern that some parents and individuals responsible for distributing the materials were involved in the malpractice.
The diverted materials are often sold in markets and other public places, undermining the efforts to support those in need.
Adeosun called on stakeholders to intensify monitoring and raise awareness about the importance of these relief materials, warning that anyone found guilty would face sanctions.
The meeting emphasized the need for community members to report any suspicious activities and ensure the materials reach the intended beneficiaries.
Similar support programs are being implemented in Katsina, Jigawa, and other parts of Northern Nigeria, making it crucial to address this issue.
The Director of Special Assignments, Hajiya Halima Ahmad Ishaq, stated that the meeting aimed to raise public awareness about the need to stop this "indecent behavior."
She highlighted that many items were clearly labeled "Not For Sale," and wondered how this didn't deter the perpetrators.
A traditional title holder, Alhaji Faruk Yola, advised that traditional leaders and community elders should be involved in monitoring the distribution process to ensure the materials reach the right people.
Participants from different sectors presented suggestions on improving the distribution system to curb diversion.
The forum concluded with a renewed commitment to ensuring that relief materials reach those who need them most, and that those responsible for diversion face consequences for their actions.
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