By Faridat Salifu
To address the prevailing economic challenges and providing vital support to communities, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the President of the Dangote Group of Companies, has announced a landmark initiative to distribute one million bags of rice across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas (LGAs).
The distribution was officially inaugurated on Saturday, during a ceremony held in Kano, where Dangote revealed that the endeavor involves the allocation of 120,000 bags of rice to the state, marking the commencement of a nationwide effort. The total cost of the initiative is estimated at over 15 billion naira.
Speaking at the launch event, Dangote underscored the importance of the initiative in light of the nation’s economic challenges, emphasizing the Dangote Group’s commitment to supporting communities nationwide.
He stated, “We are here in Kano to flag-off the distribution of over 1 million 10kg bags of rice, targeting over 1 million of the most vulnerable persons across the 774 local government areas in Nigeria at the cost of over N15 billion.”
“The allocation that will be given to Kano state because of the large population and level of poverty, we will give 120,000 bags.
“This initiative is part of our response to the current economic challenges facing our nation, and it is a testament to our commitment to supporting our communities in line with our core values.
Acknowledging the urgency of the situation, Dangote highlighted the need for immediate relief for those in need, signaling the commencement of distribution in Kano State and Lagos State.
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He reiterated the group’s goal to extend the reach of the initiative to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, ensuring widespread benefit for Nigerians.
Dangote further emphasized that this initiative supplements the group’s existing feeding programs, including the daily feeding program for 10,000 vulnerable people in Kano State, which has been operational since 1990.
“We will begin this humble endeavour in Kano State and Lagos state from today, recognising the urgency in providing immediate relief to those in need.
“Our goal is to extend our reach across all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in ensuring that as many of our fellow Nigerians as possible benefit.
“This distribution of rice is another demonstration of our commitment to upholding the values of compassion and solidarity that are the core of our humanity.”
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State expressed profound gratitude for Dangote’s generosity and urged other well-to-do individuals to follow suit.
He commended Dangote for consistently supporting the people of Kano State during times of need, particularly emphasizing the significance of the gesture during the holy month of Ramadan.
Governor Yusuf highlighted the importance of unity, compassion, and mutual support within communities, especially amidst challenging times, echoing the sentiment that collective efforts are essential in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable segments of society.
Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s benevolent initiative sets a commendable example of corporate social responsibility and underscores the importance of private sector involvement in addressing societal needs and fostering community welfare across Nigeria.
