Aliko Dangote Foundation has announced the launch of its National Food Intervention Programme, aimed at distributing over 1,000,000 10kg bags of rice across the 774 local government areas of the 36 states and FCT in Nigeria from March to early April 2024. This initiative is a crucial step towards alleviating the ongoing economic challenges faced by our nation.

“The rice distribution programme will commence in Kano and Lagos States with flag-off ceremonies before expanding to all the other 36 states and the FCT over the next two weeks,” the statement said.

In his remarks at the flag-off of the programme in Kano State on Saturday, 23rd March 2024, the Chairman of Aliko Dangote Foundation and Group President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, emphasised the importance of compassion and generosity during the holy month of Ramadan. He stated, “Our distribution of rice symbolises our commitment to upholding the values of compassion and solidarity that are at the core of our humanity.”

Mr. Dangote said the ADF was disbursing 120,000 bags of rice in Kano alone.

Kano, with over 20million people is the most populated state in Nigeria, and the commercial nerve centre of the North.

The disbursement is being handled by the Kano Hisbah Board.

“The modalities for the programme involve collaboration with state and local governments and local community partners to ensure effective delivery of the rice to the most vulnerable across the country, regardless of state, tribe, gender, religion, politics, or other attributes, “ the statement from the company said.

Additionally, it is distributing 10,000 iftar meals throughout the month of Ramadan in Kano Municipality. These are complementary to the foundation’s daily bread relief programme that has been providing over 32,000 family-size loaves of bread across Kano and Lagos States every day since 2020 following the Covid-19 pandemic.

It is noteworthy that, Dangote’s efforts in nutrition strengthening in Nigeria extend well beyond the foundation’s food relief programmes and nutrition activities. The Dangote Group has been actively investing in food fortification across the Nigerian food industry, including through its iodized salt, vitamin A fortified sugar, and research into micronutrient fortification of staples like rice, wheat, and bouillon cubes.

Over the past decade, the Aliko Dangote Foundation has consistently provided direct humanitarian relief in response to unrest and conflict in the North-East region of Nigeria, as well as food relief to displaced communities in the North-West region. Its wider work over the last three decades spans nutrition and health, education, and economic empowerment, not only in Nigeria but also in Africa and the rest of the world through various policy, programme and project initiatives. In addition to carrying out direct interventions, the foundation works with federal, state and local governments, international development partners and institutions, local communities, and other philanthropists to deliver on its mission.

The Foundation urges all well-meaning Nigerians to extend their support and assistance to those who are less privileged or disadvantaged in society. It is only through sincere collective action and social responsibility that we can find lasting solutions to issues of inequality and poverty.

It also urges governments at all levels to intensify their efforts to improve the economic environment of Nigeria through the implementation of policies and initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. By creating a conducive environment for private enterprises to thrive, governments can stimulate investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship, which are essential for sustainable development and prosperity.

Moreover, strengthening the Nigerian economy will empower individuals to become more self-reliant and economically independent. When people have access to basic nutrition, quality education, training, and income opportunities, they are better equipped to support themselves and their families, breaking the cycle of poverty and dependency.

Meanwhile, speaking on the sideline of the flag-off, Group Executive Director, Commercial, Fatima Aliko Dangote, said the company will not rest on its oars, and would continue to support the poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

She said: “This programme marks the latest nutrition and humanitarian intervention by the Foundation, continuing its tradition of impactful philanthropy. Since the 1990s, the Foundation has been providing 10,000 cooked meals daily to the vulnerable in Kano State, reaching hospitals, schools, care homes, prisons, mosques, and individuals.”

Ultimately, the goal is to build a society where each person has an opportunity to fulfil their potential and lead dignified, prosperous lives. This requires a collective commitment from both individuals and institutions to address systemic challenges, promote social justice, and create an inclusive and equitable society for all Africans.

Established with a vision to improve the well-being of people across Africa and beyond, Aliko Dangote Foundation focuses on nutrition and health, education, and economic empowerment. Through various initiatives, the Foundation strives to create lasting impacts and uplift communities.