The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has commenced the distribution of 40,000 bags of rice across Ogun State, with special attention given to People Living with Disabilities, widows, artisans, market women, and other vulnerable groups.
The food distribution, part of ADF’s National Food Intervention Programme, was flagged off at the Oba’s Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Wednesday.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, hailed the Foundation’s gesture as a timely intervention in the face of Nigeria’s harsh economic realities.
According to the governor, the initiative aligns with his administration’s efforts to provide relief for the most disadvantaged residents of the state.
“This donation is more than just a bag of rice; it is a symbol of hope during trying times,” Abiodun said.
“We appreciate the Aliko Dangote Foundation for its continued partnership, not only in food security but also in areas like health, empowerment, and security.”
The governor warned against the diversion or sale of the food items, stressing that the rice must reach its intended beneficiaries at no cost.
“To our market women, don’t say someone brought it to you and now you’re selling it,” he said. “The rice is for free distribution. Anyone caught selling it will be prosecuted.”
The governor also commended the Foundation’s earlier contributions to the state, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, where it provided critical infrastructure and logistics support.
He noted that ADF had also donated patrol vans and other security assets in the past.
Also speaking at the event, Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Mrs. Funmi Efuwape, highlighted the Foundation’s consistent commitment to corporate social responsibility, describing it as a “model for private sector engagement.”
In his remarks, Head of Operations for the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr. Victor Edero, said the National Food Intervention Programme was designed to complement government efforts in ensuring food security and mitigating the impact of inflation on low-income families.
“Our intervention is a response to the economic realities of the time, especially as Nigerians struggle with food affordability,” Edero said. “Our core focus areas—health, empowerment, and nutrition—guide all our programmes, and we remain committed to working with state governments to reach those in need.”
Edero emphasized the need for transparent and fair distribution of the rice, assuring that ADF was working closely with local authorities to ensure equity.
Various stakeholders and beneficiaries at the event praised the Foundation for its humanitarian efforts.
The Iyaloja General of Ogun State, Mrs. Yemisi Abbas, while thanking Dangote, appealed for a more sustainable intervention through the establishment of a micro-loan scheme for market women and small business owners.
“We appreciate this gesture, but we also call on the Foundation to consider long-term empowerment through soft loans to tackle poverty more effectively,” Abbas said.
Representatives from the Trade Council, Youth Council, and Persons with Disabilities also took turns to commend the Foundation, urging other private organizations to emulate its example.
Bags of 10kg rice were distributed to group representatives at the event, who will further share them among their members across the state’s 20 local government areas.
The food distribution drive is expected to continue in other states under the ADF’s nationwide intervention programme.
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