Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has called on wealthy Nigerians to emulate the philanthropic efforts of Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, in the fight against hunger and poverty in Nigeria.
Speaking during the flag-off of the distribution of 13,000 bags of rice donated by the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) in Benin City over the weekend, the governor, represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, lauded the gesture as a significant contribution to the state’s efforts to alleviate hunger among vulnerable populations.
“I express my heartfelt gratitude to Aliko Dangote and the Aliko Dangote Foundation for this notable act of generosity and compassion,” the governor said. “This donation is a testament to the Foundation’s commitment to alleviating poverty and promoting food security.”
He noted that the rice donation aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes food security, and complements Edo State’s own Back to Farm project that targets the cultivation of 3,000 hectares of land across the three senatorial districts.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the distribution process would be transparent and equitable to ensure the rice reaches the most vulnerable.
An official of the ADF, Opeoluwa Olajide, who conveyed Dangote’s message, said the rice distribution is part of a ₦16 billion National Food Intervention Programme aimed at distributing one million 10kg bags of rice to economically challenged Nigerians across all 774 local government areas.
“This initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger, and it’s a crucial step towards addressing the ongoing economic hardship in the country,” Olajide stated.
He reiterated Dangote’s commitment to working with governments to ease food insecurity and support the most vulnerable, especially in these economically challenging times.
Leader of the Edo market women, Pastor Josephine Ebhaguejezele, expressed gratitude to the Foundation and commended the state government for its inclusive governance.
“Since the governor assumed office, he has consistently empowered youths, women, and the vulnerable across the three senatorial districts,” she said.
Several beneficiaries, including Mrs. Margerrette Ogun, Mrs. Patience Agharia, and Princess Judith Oshodin, praised the ADF and described the donation as a lifeline for struggling families.
In a related development, thousands of 10kg bags of rice were also distributed to residents of Okpella, the host community to Dangote Cement Plc in Etsako East Local Government Area, as part of the Foundation’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
Speaking at the palace of the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, Director of Stakeholder Management, Engr. Patrick Omokagbo said the distribution acknowledges the community’s cooperation with the cement company.
“This is a gesture of goodwill and appreciation to the host communities for their peaceful coexistence and support,” he noted.
Palace Secretary, Barr. Akuri Afegbua, and beneficiaries like Mrs. Mercy Sado and Mr. Inusa Ahmed also commended the initiative, saying the rice donation comes at a time of rising inflation and increasing food prices, providing much-needed relief to struggling families.
