Aliko Dangote Foundation has unveiled its National Rice Relief Programme aimed at distributing over 1,000,000 10kg bags of rice across the 774 Local Government Areas of the Federation from March to early April 2024.
Chairman of Aliko Dangote Foundation and Group President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, made this known at the flag-off the programme in Kano on Saturday.
He highlighted the significance of compassion and generosity during the holy month of Ramadan.
He also noted that this initiative was meant to mitigate the ongoing economic challenges confronting the nation.
“The rice distribution programme will commence in Kano and Lagos States with flag-off ceremonies before expanding to all the other 36 states and the FCT over the next two weeks,” the statement said.
He said, “Our distribution of rice symbolises our commitment to upholding the values of compassion and solidarity that are at the core of our humanity.”
Dangote said the ADF was disbursing 120,000 bags of rice in Kano alone.
Kano, with over 20million people is the most populated State in Nigeria and the commercial nerve of the North.
The disbursement is being handled by the Kano Hisbah Board.
“The modalities for the programme involve collaboration with state and local governments and local community partners to ensure effective delivery of the rice to the most vulnerable across the country, regardless of state, tribe, gender, religion, politics, or other attributes, “ the statement from the company read
Also, it is distributing 10,000 iftar meals throughout the month of Ramadan in Kano Municipality.
These are complementary to the foundation’s daily bread relief programme that has been providing over 32,000 family-size loaves of bread across Kano and Lagos States every day since 2020 following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Foundation enjoined all well-meaning Nigerians to extend support and assistance to those who are less privileged or disadvantaged in society, stating “It is only through sincere collective action and social responsibility that we can find lasting solutions to issues of inequality and poverty.
“We further urge governments at all levels to intensify their efforts to improve the economic environment of Nigeria through the implementation of policies and initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
“By creating a conducive environment for private enterprises to thrive, governments can stimulate investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship, which are essential for sustainable development and prosperity.
“Moreover, strengthening the Nigerian economy will empower individuals to become more self-reliant and economically independent.
“When people have access to basic nutrition, quality education, training, and income opportunities, they are better equipped to support themselves and their families, breaking the cycle of poverty and dependency.”
Speaking on the sideline of the flag-off, Group Executive Director, Commercial, Fatima Aliko Dangote, disclosed that the company will not rest on its oars, and would continue to support the poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
“This programme marks the latest nutrition and humanitarian intervention by the Foundation, continuing its tradition of impactful philanthropy.
“Since the 1990s, the Foundation has been providing 10,000 cooked meals daily to the vulnerable in Kano State, reaching hospitals, schools, care homes, prisons, mosques, and individuals,” she said.
Established with a vision to improve the well-being of people across Africa and beyond, Aliko Dangote Foundation focuses on nutrition and health, education, and economic empowerment. Through various initiatives, the Foundation strives to create lasting impacts and uplift communities.
