Bauchi: Some residents of Bauchi State have reiterated the need to reintroduce the homegrown school feeding programme in order to boost school enrolment. The residents, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi, said that the move would enhance learning in public primary schools.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, one of the residents, Mr. Samuel Garba, expressed concern over the discontinuation of the programme, noting that it had significantly revitalized the public school system. Malam Abubakar Isa also emphasized that the school feeding initiative had encouraged many parents to enrol their children in public schools, as it not only provided meals but also motivated pupils to remain in school and improved their concentration in class.

Hajiya Zainab Haruna highlighted the positive impact of the programme on the local economy, stating that it created opportunities for local farmers and food vendors. She pointed out that it supported small businesses and reduced poverty, particularly among women who were involved in supplying and preparing the meals. Haruna noted that the suspension of the programme in many states had adversely affected school attendance, especially in rural areas.

Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed called on governments at all levels to prioritize the reintroduction of the programme and emphasized the need for transparency in its management to ensure its success.