Emulate Dangote National Food Palliative Gesture, Edo State Urges Wealthy Nigerians

Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has urged generous Nigerians to take inspiration from Aliko Dangote’s commitment to support the government’s efforts in combating poverty and hunger by fostering job creationthrough investments.

He stated this at the launch of the distribution of 13,000 bags of rice donated by the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) to assist economically disadvantaged residents.

During the event, the governor expressed his gratitude to the ADF for their contribution, emphasizing that this initiative aligns perfectly with his administration’s mission to enhance the quality of life for all citizens through effective economic policies and robust infrastructure development.

Represented by Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, he underscored the collective responsibility of all Nigerians to join the fight against poverty and hunger. By forming partnerships, he believed the government can pave the way for a more resilient and prosperous future for all.

Okpebholo remarked, “this donation reflects the Foundation’s dedication to alleviating poverty and fostering food security for the most vulnerable individuals within our communities.”

He highlighted the broader initiative to distribute one million bags of rice to the 774 Local Government Areas nationwide, viewing it as a commendable and effective response to food insecurity.

He noted that the Edo State government supports President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which priorities national food security.

“To bolster agricultural productivity, the state has initiated the ‘Back to Farm’ project, aimed at cultivating 3,000 hectares across its three Senatorial districts. This initiative reinforces their commitment to achieving food self-sufficiency in Edo State,” he said.

As the distribution of rice commences, the Governor assured that the process will be transparent and equitable, ensuring that the intended beneficiaries and communities receive the support they need.

A representative of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Opeoluwa Olajide, shared that Alhaji Dangote aims to support economically challenged Nigerians through a National Food Intervention Programme, designed to enhance food security and provide relief from hunger.

“This year, the Foundation has allocated N16 billion to distribute 1,000,000 bags of rice (10kg each) to one million Nigerians across the 774 local governments. This food relief initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Zero Hunger, highlighting the Foundation’s commitment to tackling food insecurity in Nigeria,” he added.

The program has already been launched in Lagos, Kano, and several other states, with Edo State now receiving 13,000 bags of rice for distribution.

Olajide added that this initiative holds special significance for Alhaji Dangote, as he seeks to assist governments at all levels in addressing poverty in Nigeria, viewing rice distribution as a commitment to compassion and solidarity that lies at the heart of humanity.

Pastor Josephine Ebhaguejezele, leader of the market women in Edo State, expressed her gratitude to the ADF for their support of the vulnerable populations and praised Governor Okpebholo for his transparent and genuine approach to assisting those in need, especially market traders in the state.