By Faridat Salifu
The Abuja chapter of the Federal Government College Kaduna Old Students’ Association officially launched its Food Bank Initiative on Saturday, at the Raw Material Research and Development Council Auditorium Hall in Abuja.
The initiative, aimed at alleviating hunger among members and vulnerable communities, was flagged off by Chapter Chairman, Hon. Bola Aduroshakin, under the theme: “Together We Will Thrive and Support Each Other in This Trying Time.”
Speaking at the event, Aduroshakin explained the purpose of the food bank, emphasizing the need for such initiatives in the face of Nigeria’s economic challenges. “Thousands of people are struggling to put food on the table due to the current state of the economy,” he said.
“This food bank is our way of easing that burden. It’s also a reminder that our alma mater is a place of support and solidarity.”
The food bank launch marks the second major initiative Aduroshakin’s administration has rolled out, following the launch of a health insurance scheme earlier this year.
According to Aduroshakin, over 100 alumni members are currently benefiting from a free, year-long health insurance plan, fully funded by the association’s dues and levies.
In his remarks, Aduroshakin stressed that the food bank initiative was self-funded, with no external fundraising campaigns. Despite limited resources, the association managed to distribute essential food items, including rice, beans ,noodles, frozen chicken, garri, oil, and sugar, to over 100 members. “The smiles on their faces mean a lot to us,” he said.
The Vice Chairman, in her speech, highlighted the broader charitable and empowerment goals of the association, noting that plans were underway to offer training programs and other forms of community support. “This is more than just a philanthropic gesture. We are working to ensure empowerment and self-sufficiency among our members and beyond,” she said.
The food bank initiative, Aduroshakin added, is the beginning of a long-term effort to extend support not only to alumni but also to vulnerable communities. “This is just the flag-off,” he noted. “We plan to continue this monthly, and we call on community leaders, religious leaders, and others to join us in this effort to make a difference.”
The event also featured a special address by General Muhammed Muhammed, who praised the initiative and urged for its expansion into a national program. “What you have started today has the potential to touch lives across the country,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Aduroshakin reaffirmed his commitment to continuing the initiative, expressing hope that it would inspire others to take up similar efforts. “We can actualize our dreams and spread this effort across the nation, providing for the less privileged and ensuring no one goes hungry,” he said.
The F.G.C. Kaduna Old Students Association operates both locally and globally, with chapters in North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions, all contributing to the school’s development and alumni welfare.
The Abuja chapter’s food bank initiative is set to continue on a monthly basis, with plans to expand its reach to those most in need.