The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has launched its 2025 Annual National Food Intervention Project, committing N16 billion to distribute one million bags of 10kg rice to vulnerable Nigerians across the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
At the official flag-off ceremony in Kano State, the Chairman of the Foundation, Aliko Dangote, represented by his daughter, Maryam Aliko Dangote, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to alleviating hunger and supporting Nigerians facing economic hardship.
“This annual initiative embodies compassion, solidarity, and shared responsibility. It is part of our response to the current economic challenges facing our nation and reflects our commitment to supporting communities in line with our core values,” he said.
The distribution commenced in Kano and will extend to all states, ensuring food security for those most in need. Mr. Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual, emphasized that food remains a fundamental necessity, underscoring ADF’s commitment to collaborating with state governments to reach the most vulnerable populations.
“We are working closely with state authorities to ensure the rice reaches those who need it most. This initiative is one of the many ways we support communities, just as we have done through interventions in health, education, and economic empowerment,” he added.
Dangote urged other industrialists and corporate organizations to join efforts in combating hunger, stating that the burden should not be left to the government alone.
“This is a collective responsibility. The private sector must step up with initiatives that put food on the tables of vulnerable Nigerians. Tackling hunger requires strong public-private partnerships,” he stressed.
Flagging off the distribution, Governor Abba K. Yusuf, represented by Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam Gworzo, applauded Dangote’s commitment to fighting hunger and poverty.
“This intervention is yet another demonstration of Mr. Dangote’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes. In Kano alone, 120,000 bags of rice will be distributed across the 44 LGAs,” the governor stated.
To ensure fairness and transparency, the Kano State Government has set up a monitoring committee comprising ministries, civil society organizations (CSOs), religious leaders, local authorities, and security agencies.
ADF’s legacy of philanthropy
ADF has consistently led humanitarian efforts in health, education, and disaster relief, both in Nigeria and internationally.
Key contributions:
- Health Interventions:
- N153 million to Nigeria’s Ebola response in 2014.
- $3 million to the African Union (AU) for Ebola relief.
- N66.66 million for thermal scanners at Nigeria’s international airports.
- N2 billion to CACOVID for COVID-19 relief in Nigeria.
- Education Support:
- N1.2 billion to establish a modern Business School at Bayero University, Kano.
- A fully equipped 2,160-bed hostel complex at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
- N300 million to University of Ibadan Business School.
- International Relief:
- $1 million donated to earthquake victims in Nepal.
Commitment to ending hunger
Managing Director of ADF, Zouera Youssoufou, emphasized that food security remains a top priority for the Foundation.
“Mr. Dangote is deeply committed to philanthropy. Our goal is to ensure that hunger is either eradicated or significantly reduced in Nigeria,” she stated.
The Hisbah Board in Kano, represented by Deputy Commander-General Dr. Mujahid Aminudeen, expressed gratitude for the initiative, pledging to oversee the fair distribution of rice to intended beneficiaries.
A representative of the vulnerable population, Ibrahim Ahmed, extended appreciation to Aliko Dangote, praying for his continued success.
With the 2025 National Food Intervention Project now in motion, ADF continues to reaffirm its commitment to fighting hunger, supporting livelihoods, and strengthening communities across Nigeria.
