Dangote Foundation Distributes Rice to Vulnerable in Osun
By Patience Ikpeme
The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has extended its National Food Intervention Programme to Osun State, commencing the distribution of 30,000 bags of rice to economically vulnerable individuals across the state over the weekend.
The state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, officiated the distribution and conveyed his profound appreciation to Africa’s leading industrialist and philanthropist, Aliko Dangote, and the Aliko Dangote Foundation.
He acknowledged their steadfast dedication to the welfare of vulnerable populations and their ongoing efforts to combat hunger and poverty in Nigeria and across Africa.
Governor Adeleke stated that the distribution of 30,000 bags of 10 kg rice to vulnerable groups in all local government areas of Osun State would significantly ease the burden of the prevailing food crisis caused by widespread inflation affecting Nigeria and the African continent.
Represented by the state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Otunba Tola Faseru, Governor Adeleke commended Aliko Dangote and the Foundation for their timely support to Osun State during these challenging economic times that disproportionately impact the vulnerable members of society.
According to the Commissioner, “The distribution of these rice bags to the less privileged marks a vital move towards addressing food security and reducing poverty within the state. I must again applaud the Foundation’s efforts in bringing meaningful relief to those who require food assistance. By working together, we can build a more prosperous society for everyone.”
He noted that numerous vulnerable groups and their members, including people with disabilities (PWD), the elderly, motherless babies’ homes, youth groups, farmers, and artisans, would benefit from the rice distribution.
The Governor stressed the necessity of continued collaboration with the Foundation on initiatives aimed at providing relief to the vulnerable in the country. He mentioned that his administration remains committed to offering various palliative measures to the people of Osun State.
Speaking on behalf of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Victor Ejiro stated that Osun State holds a special place for the Foundation’s Chairman, Aliko Dangote, and the organization, hence the decision to prioritize the state in this intervention.
He added that the Foundation consistently aims to reach one million vulnerable Nigerians through its Annual National Food Intervention Programme. Mr. Ejiro explained that the 2025 rice distribution program targets beneficiaries in all 774 local governments across Nigeria as a direct response to mitigate the impact of the tough economic conditions on the vulnerable.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Olaniran Akanfe Atidade, who also attended the distribution ceremony, described the Foundation’s gesture as a substantial contribution towards food security and poverty alleviation.
Representatives from various beneficiary groups received their allocated bags of rice and expressed their gratitude to the Aliko Dangote Foundation for the invaluable support and assistance.
It is recalled that the Aliko Dangote Foundation commenced its 2025 National Food Relief Programme in March, with the goal of distributing over 1,000,000 10kg bags of rice across all 774 local government areas in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) within Nigeria.
The Chairman of the Foundation, Aliko Dangote, had previously stated that this initiative represents a crucial step in alleviating the ongoing economic difficulties faced by the nation.
“The rice distribution programme will begin in Kano and Lagos States with initial ceremonies before extending to all other 36 states and the FCT over the subsequent two weeks,” he announced.
Mr. Dangote conveyed the significance of compassion and generosity during the holy month of Ramadan, when the distribution began, stating that “the distribution of rice symbolizes our commitment to upholding the values of compassion and solidarity that are at the core of our humanity.”
