Dangote Foundation doles out 1million bags of rice to less privileged Nigerians
The Aliko Dangote Foundation has commenced the distribution of one million bags of rice to less privileged Nigerians across the 774 local government areas of the country.
The distribution was flagged off in Kano on Thursday by Hajiya Mariya Aliko Dangote, a Trustee of the foundation, who represented the Chairman of the foundation, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
Dangote said that the target was to support the most needy in the society.
“We are initiating this significant effort in Kano State today and will simultaneously proceed to the remaining 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory during these important seasons of Ramadan and Lent.
“This initiative is born from a deep understanding of the challenges being faced by the most vulnerable citizens, especially during the sacred seasons of Ramadan and Lent.
“These are times of reflection, prayer, and community, but for some, they are also times of heightened hardship. By providing this support, we hope to alleviate the burden on families and empower them to focus on their spiritual observances and personal growth.
“We will collaborate with state and local governments to distribute the bags of rice safely and efficiently, leveraging established security officials and protocols to ensure beneficiary safety,” he said.
Dangote said in Kano State, the rice distribution will compliment the foundation’s ongoing feeding programmes in the state, including the daily feeding initiative for 10,000 vulnerable individuals, which has been operational since the 1990s.
“Additionally, we are providing 5,000 daily iftar meals for those observing the Holy Ramadan fast. These initiatives are conducted alongside our distribution of 20,000 family-size loaves of bread in Kano and 12,500 loaves in Lagos, which began during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.”
He also highlighted the Dangote Group’s interventions in boosting nutrition and public health.
“As a Group, the Dangote business operation is also advancing the nutrition agenda by making meaningful progress in food fortification, including investments in iodized salt and vitamin A fortified sugar. We actively advocate for food fortification within the Nigerian food industry and are investigating micronutrient fortification methods for staple foods such as rice, wheat, and bouillon cubes to contribute to the fight against malnutrition and related health problems.”
Dangote stressed that food security is a fundamental pillar of human health and well-being, and crucial for every person to access sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to lead a healthy and active life.
“Unfortunately, many of our fellow Nigerians face daily struggles in meeting their basic food needs. This is why the Aliko Dangote Foundation has undertaken the 1 million bags of rice distribution initiative to ensure that the people of Nigeria, particularly those who are most in need, receive the help they deserve.
“The Foundation has always been dedicated to improving lives and supporting communities across Nigeria, and today, we take another step towards realizing this mission.
“This is not just a gesture of charity; it is a demonstration of our commitment to set Nigerians and Africans up for success, it is a testament to further foster the Aliko Dangote Foundation’s four-pillar goal in nutrition, health, education and empowerment.
“By providing these bags of rice, we aim to alleviate the immediate hunger and hardship experienced by many and contribute to the broader goal of food security in Kano State and Nigeria at large.,” she added.
The Foundation chairman expressed profound gratitude to Kano State Government for their support and collaboration in making the initiative a reality.
“Your partnership is invaluable in ensuring that the bags of rice reach those who need them the most. We also extend our appreciation to Hizbah, and community leaders who will be involved in the distribution process. Your dedication and hard work are essential in making this effort safe and successful.
“As we move forward, the Aliko Dangote Foundation remains committed to identifying and addressing the pressing needs of our communities. We will continue to work tirelessly to support vulnerable populations, create opportunities for growth and development, and build a brighter future for all Nigerians.”
In his speech at the event, Kano State Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, commended Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s philanthropy, describing it as significant to alleviating hunger, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
He noted that this year, the foundation is distributing 120,000 bags of 10kg rice across the 44 local government areas of Kano State.
“The generosity of Alhaji Aliko Dangote through the ADF reflects his commitment to uplifting the needy. This initiative will go a long way in easing hardship, especially during this blessed month,” the deputy governor stated.
To ensure transparency in the distribution process, Gwarzo highlighted that the state government has established a committee comprising relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the Hisbah Board, security agencies, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and local authorities.
He urged all those involved to carry out their responsibilities with sincerity and fairness, emphasizing the need for the food items to reach the intended beneficiaries.
