Continuing its national food intervention programme, the Aliko Dangote Foundation has facilitated the distribution of thousands of bags of rice to beneficiaries and vulnerable Nigerians in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, with no fewer than 48 charity organisations and orphanages involved in the process.
According to the company’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, the initiative represents a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to supporting the government and the Nigerian populace in alleviating economic hardship within the country.
Mr. Chiejina noted that following the National flag-off events in Kano and Lagos, the Foundation initiated the distribution of one million bags of rice throughout all the local government areas in Nigeria last month.
The coordination of the distribution exercise in Abuja is being undertaken by the 1Ummah Foundation, led by Mrs Azeeza Hassan-Jibril.
Speaking to newsmen, Mrs Jibril said some of the groups that are supporting the ADF in the distribution exercise are: Hope for Survival Children’s Home Gishiri, Child to Child Charity Foundation, Gajiya Charity Foundation, Mission for Education, Social and Health (MESH), JADAFIA Group, Network of Women with Disabilities (NWD), Dagam Pilame Community Association, Eeqra Foundation/Orphanage, Leprosarium-Yangoji, Support our Troops (SOT) Foundation for widows, Karmajiji Disabled Colony, Bimbola Nutrition and Health Foundation, NASFAT Foundation, and JIBWIS Group among others.
Mrs Jibril said the donation will greatly and positively impact the beneficiaries in Abuja.
Reacting, the Lead Programme Officer of the Mission for Education, Social and Health (MESH), Mrs Khadija Oladipupo, said the rice donation has helped “nourish and uplift those in need within our communities.
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“Together, we’re making a meaningful difference in the lives of our population, especially those in need”.
In her response, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Gajiya Charity Foundation, Hafsat Umar Gimba, expressed gratitude, describing the intervention as a generous assistance.
She said, “Receiving the items you sent has brought immense relief and comfort to the less privileged in the society during these hard times. Your kindness and compassion have touched their hearts profoundly. The rice provided has eased their burdens and provided them with the necessities they desperately needed.
“Knowing that there are individuals and organizations like ADF and 1Ummah who care deeply about the well-being of others fills me with hope and renewed faith in humanity. May you continue to be blessed abundantly for your noble work, and may your kindness inspire others to lend a helping hand to those in need.”
In the same vein, the Administrative Secretary, Movement for Islamic Culture and Awareness (MICA), Adeniyi Akeem Akanbi, said, “We sincerely appreciate your support for the rice given us to share among our members and people of Lugbe environs. We say Jazakah lahu kayran to the Dangote foundation and pray Allah to reward the organisation abundantly.”
According to the President of the Network of Women with Disabilities (NWD), Lois Auta, “Your commitment to supporting marginalized communities, particularly women with disabilities, exemplifies your dedication to social responsibility and compassion. Through your donation, you have not only alleviated the immediate needs of those in our network but also demonstrated solidarity and empathy towards our cause.”
Meanwhile, the President of the JADAFIA Group, Mrs. Rakiya S Bamalli said, “I want to express our heartfelt appreciation for the generous donations provided by the Aliko Dangote Foundation during the holy month of Ramadan.
“The contributions have enabled us to expand our Ramadan outreach programmes, including the distribution of food packages, iftar meals and essential supplies to families and communities facing hardship. This has made a significant difference in our efforts to provide relief to those in need within our community.”
Responding, a representative of the Bimbola Nutrition and Health Foundation, Mr Femi Akosile said, “We take this moment to appreciate Aliko Dangote Foundation for the provision of 10kg bags of rice for distribution to the less privileged and vulnerable groups.
“Your contribution has made a significant impact on our efforts to support those in need in our community. The rice has been distributed to families and individuals who are experiencing food insecurity.
“We want to sincerely say that your partnership and commitment to making a positive difference in our community are truly inspiring, and we are honoured to have had the opportunity to work with you.”