The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has launched the distribution of 80,000 10kg bags of rice to vulnerable residents in Lagos State as part of its nationwide relief efforts.
Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group and Chairman of ADF, was represented at the event by Executive Director Hajiya Marya Dangote. She stated that this initiative is part of a larger plan to distribute over one million 10kg bags of rice to vulnerable individuals across Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.
Speaking at the flag-off event in Alausa, Dangote emphasized that this donation reflects the foundation’s commitment to compassion and solidarity. He noted that in addition to the rice distribution, the foundation also provides thousands of loaves of bread daily to residents in Lagos. He expressed hope that the initiative would help alleviate some of the hardships faced by struggling communities in the state.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, commended Dangote’s continued support for Nigerians in need. He acknowledged the foundation’s efforts in providing relief and spreading kindness, particularly during the Ramadan and Lent seasons, which emphasize charity and generosity.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted that the donation demonstrates ADF’s commitment to prioritizing people’s welfare over profit. “Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian who has chosen to make a difference. You had other choices, but you made the right one by caring for the vulnerable. We appreciate Mr. Dangote for his kindness toward those at the bottom of the pyramid and for supporting the government in these challenging times,” he said.
He encouraged other wealthy Nigerians to follow Dangote’s example, adding that the rice distribution aligns with Lagos State’s food support initiative, Ounje Eko, which provides food at subsidized rates to residents in all local government areas.
Sanwo-Olu also praised Dangote for his significant investments in Lagos, including the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and the Dangote Fertiliser Plant. He noted that the Dangote Group is actively involved in nutrition initiatives, investing in food fortification, iodized salt, and vitamin A-enriched sugar. The company is also exploring ways to fortify staples like rice, wheat, and bouillon cubes to enhance national nutrition.
Dangote reaffirmed that ADF’s mission is deeply rooted in improving nutrition and human capital development. “Access to nutritious food is not only a basic human right but also a key factor in good health and well-being. By providing these modest bags of rice to those in need, we are not just addressing immediate hunger but also investing in the long-term health and prosperity of our communities,” he added.
