The Oyo State Government, in partnership with Dangote Foundation, on Monday distributed 30,000 bags of 10kg rice to residents across the state as part of efforts to alleviate poverty and tackle food insecurity.
The food relief initiative, the second of its kind, held at the State Secretariat, targeted residents across all strata of society, including the able-bodied, persons living with disabilities, women, and the elderly.
Speaking at the event, Governor Seyi Makinde, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, said private sector involvement through Corporate Social Responsibility would significantly support government efforts to reduce poverty and hunger in the country.
“This initiative reflects sustainable engagement with the private sector and demonstrates that government alone cannot solve the problem of food insecurity,” Babatunde stated on behalf of the governor.
He expressed gratitude to the foundation for what he described as a “noble and global initiative” aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens.
Also speaking, the Head of Operations of Dangote Foundation, Victor Ejiro, said the donation was a response to the harsh economic realities across Nigeria.
He urged beneficiaries to share with members of their households and neighbors in need.
“The distribution in Oyo State is part of several planned interventions across the country as the foundation continues its partnership with state governments to address poverty and food insecurity,” Ejiro said.
Some beneficiaries who received the rice expressed appreciation for the gesture, noting that it would help cushion the effect of rising food costs in their homes.
