Dangote Foundation Distributes 80,000 Bags of Rice in Lagos
By Patience Ikpeme
The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has initiated the distribution of 80,000 10kg bags of rice to support vulnerable individuals in Lagos state, as part of a broader effort to distribute over one million bags nationwide.
Speaking at the launch event held in Alausa, Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group and Chairman of the foundation, emphasized the importance of compassion and solidarity in addressing the needs of vulnerable communities. He highlighted that this initiative supplements the foundation’s ongoing distribution of 12,500 loaves of bread daily in Lagos, aiming to alleviate the burdens faced by vulnerable populations across the state.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended Dangote’s initiatives, praising his commitment to prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians over profit. Sanwo-Olu emphasized the significance of such gestures in addressing economic hardships and reaffirmed the state’s support for initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of its citizens.
In extending the foundation’s Ramadan food distribution beyond the Muslim community, Dangote underscored the importance of standing together as a nation during times of hardship. He announced plans to broaden the program to cover all thirty-six states and the Federal Capital Territory, reflecting the foundation’s commitment to supporting communities of all faiths.
Zouera Youssoufou, CEO of ADF, emphasized the foundation’s vision of empowering Africans to achieve their full potential, highlighting partnerships with credible NGOs and civil societies to ensure effective distribution to the most vulnerable.
Fatima Aliko-Dangote, Group Executive Director Commercial Operations at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), reiterated the foundation’s long-standing commitment to philanthropy, encouraging others to follow suit. She highlighted the foundation’s diverse initiatives, including empowering disadvantaged women and providing daily meals in Lagos and Kano.
Dangote emphasized Lagos state’s importance to the Dangote Group, citing major investments in the region, including the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Dangote Fertiliser Plant. He also outlined the group’s efforts in food fortification, aiming to improve nutrition nationwide.
Dangote urged individuals and corporate organizations to emulate the spirit of giving, especially during Ramadan, emphasizing the importance of empathy and charity in building stronger communities.
