In continuation of its Rice Distribution Initiative, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, on Tuesday in Asaba, the Delta State Capital, donated 10,000 bags of 10 kilogrammes of rice to the less privileged in the state with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori issuing a stern warning to both state and local government personnel who would be involved in their distribution against diversion.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori underscored the profound significance of the donation which, according to him, aligned seamlessly with his MORE Agenda that prioritised welfare, inclusion, and sustainable development for all Deltans.
He said: “While the rice distributed here today may not feed everyone, it represents something much greater — the spirit of care, compassion, and shared humanity. If each of us gives a little of what we have to our neighbours, the world would indeed become a better place.”
Governor Oborevwori, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, (SSG) Dr. Kingsley Emu, hailed the Aliko Dangote Foundation for the gesture.
He described the foundation as one of Africa’s largest and most impactful philanthropic organisations, which continued to touch millions of lives across the continent.
Governor Oborevwori lauded the Aliko Dangote’s foundation for remaining steadfast in uplifting communities and supporting human welfare.
“Alhaji Dangote’s compassion and dedication to humanity stand as an inspiration to all. He is not doing this for recognition or politics, but out of genuine desire to make life better for others,” Governor Oborevwori said.
Expressing profound appreciation to Dangote for the thoughtful gesture, the governor highlighted the collaborative spirit between the Foundation and the government, which he said was needed to address economic challenges in the country.
While saying that his administration has implemented robust interventions, including monthly support for 10,000 widows, amounting to ₦1.8 billion annually, and enrolment in the Contributory Health Scheme, he disclosed that additional initiatives by various ministries had empowered thousands, demonstrating a solid foundation of care and empowerment.
Governor Oborevwori appealed for fair and transparent distribution, ensuring that the rice reaches intended beneficiaries — the elderly, widows, persons with disabilities, and orphanages, without diversion or misuse.
Head of Operations, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr. Victor Ejiro, who spoke on behalf of the Foundation underscored the it’s enduring dedication to community support.
Ejiro said, “We are delighted to be in Delta State today for the official presentation of 10,000 bags of 10kg rice to support vulnerable individuals and families across the state”, adding that the foundation which was established over 30 years ago, had been a beacon of hope, actively supporting communities in key areas such as health, education, empowerment, and nutrition.
According to him, “This Rice Distribution Initiative is part of the Foundation’s ongoing national programme, covering all 774 Local Government Areas across Nigeria.
“Our focus is on the vulnerable in our midst — including artisans, market women, widows, and persons with disabilities. We are working closely with local government councils to ensure that these items reach the intended beneficiaries directly in their communities”.
The Foundation commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his strong commitment to food security and welfare initiatives, saying that the foundation’s gesture would complement the state’s drive to cushion the effects of economic hardship on vulnerable families.
Earlier, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Pat Ajudua, in her welcome remarks, emphasised the significance of the intervention amidst ongoing economic challenges, particularly affecting the vulnerable since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ajudua stated that “Every effort aimed at making life easier for them is not only commendable but highly necessary.
“We are optimistic that this initiative marks only the beginning of greater things to come, because, as we often say in Delta, we are always asking for more, and we are always giving more,” the Commissioner said.
Chairman of Okpe Local Government Council, who is also the Chairman of ALGON in the state, Isaiah Esiovwa, thanked the Dangote Foundation for the gesture aimed at supporting the most vulnerable and less-privileged members of the society.
Esiovwa said: “I stand here on behalf of the 25 local government chairmen in Delta State, and I must say that this gesture is truly commendable. The Foundation has set an example of compassion and service that reflects the values we uphold as leaders at the grassroots level.”
Beneficiaries include physically challenged persons, the elderly, former lepers, orphanages and charity homes, Christian Association of Nigeria, and the Muslim community amongst others.