The Aliko Dangote Foundation’s National Food Intervention Programme has commenced the distribution of 40,000 bags of rice across all 20 local government areas of Ogun State, with priority given to People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) and other vulnerable populations.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, commended the Foundation for its consistent support. He noted that the initiative aligns with his administration’s efforts to provide relief during challenging times.
The governor acknowledged the long-standing partnership between the Foundation and Ogun State, particularly in the areas of healthcare, economic empowerment, and security. He also recalled the critical role played by the Foundation during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the donation of essential infrastructure and support for the state’s security system through the provision of patrol vehicles.
“When corporate organizations engage in initiatives like this, we must highlight and commend them. It’s not just about doing business—it’s about giving back and empathizing with the people,” Abiodun said. “What the Dangote Foundation has done is to consistently prioritize the welfare of the people.”
He cautioned against the sale of the donated rice, warning that anyone caught selling the items will face strict consequences. “To our market women, do not claim someone brought it to you to sell. The rice is meant to be distributed free of charge as an empowerment initiative,” he added. The state government, he said, will monitor the distribution process to ensure the items reach the intended beneficiaries.
In her welcome remarks, Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Mrs. Funmi Efuape, lauded the Dangote Foundation for its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts and continued support to Ogun State.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Head of Operations of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr. Victor Edero, said the food intervention programme is part of the Foundation’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s food security efforts, especially in light of the current global economic challenges.
“The Foundation focuses on three core areas: health, empowerment, and nutrition,” Edero said. “This initiative is designed to cushion the effects of economic hardship and provide direct relief to those in need.”
He emphasized the importance of equitable distribution and called on all partners to ensure the food items reach the most vulnerable members of society.
The Iyaloja General of Ogun State, Mrs. Yemisi Abbas, expressed appreciation to the Dangote Group for its continued support and appealed to the Foundation to consider establishing a loan scheme as a long-term empowerment strategy to combat poverty.
Representatives from People Living with Disabilities, the Trade Council, and the Youth Council also expressed gratitude to Aliko Dangote for his generosity and applauded the state government for fostering public-private partnerships that benefit the people.
During the event, bags of rice were formally presented to representatives of PLWDs, widows, market women, artisans, youth, and other community groups for onward distribution to their members.
