In a continued effort to support Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations, the Dangote Foundation has donated 30,000 bags of rice to the Oyo State Government. The gesture forms part of the foundation’s national food relief programme aimed at tackling hunger among disadvantaged groups.
At a handover event in Ibadan on Wednesday, Mr Victor Ejiro, Head of Operations for the Foundation, noted that the donation was designed to complement the Oyo State Government’s poverty alleviation schemes.
“Providing direct food aid to the poorest in society is a responsibility we’ve taken seriously for over 30 years. This rice donation reflects our commitment to supporting sustainable welfare strategies,” Ejiro said.
He emphasised the importance of fair and accountable distribution, urging local coordinators to ensure the rice reaches only the intended recipients in all 33 local councils.
The donation was formally received by Professor Musibau Babatunde, Chairman of the SAfER Programme, who commended the Dangote Foundation for its longstanding philanthropic impact. He highlighted the importance of such private-sector interventions in enhancing public welfare and bridging social inequality.
“Our focus is to ensure that every physically challenged person, vulnerable family, orphanage and elderly individual in need benefits from this donation,” Babatunde added.
The event included a symbolic presentation of rice bags to a group of selected recipients. Speaking with journalists, several beneficiaries expressed their gratitude.
“This means a lot to me and my family,” said Mr Olapade Tajudeen, an elderly resident. Another recipient, Mrs Omotayo Borode, said the rice would “help ease the burden” of daily survival.
Physically-challenged women, Mrs Olawumi Idowu and Mrs Victoria Olawale, also shared their appreciation, saying the support demonstrated that they had not been forgotten.
