The Aliko Dangote Foundation has launched the distribution of 10,000 bags of rice (10kg each) to vulnerable households, people living with disabilities, and the less privileged across Bayelsa State, as part of its annual National Food Intervention Project.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who represented Governor Douye Diri, expressed deep appreciation to Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his consistent philanthropic efforts. He also acknowledged Dangote’s valuable partnership with the state, especially in agriculture where the Dangote Group has agreed to serve as off-taker for the state’s rice production.
“We want to commend Dangote for conquering greed through his philanthropic virtues in the past 30 years. I urge everyone to emulate his act of giving,” the Deputy Governor stated.
“We also look forward to the possibility of building a mill near our farm clusters and settlements, and we thank Dangote for being a key partner in this journey.”
During the event, Edero Victor Ejiro, Head of Operations at the Aliko Dangote Foundation, highlighted that the rice donation is part of a broader food support initiative aimed at reaching over one million disadvantaged Nigerians across the country’s 774 local government areas.
“Our target beneficiaries include widows, artisans, physically challenged individuals, market women, and other vulnerable groups,” he explained.
“We’ve reviewed Bayelsa’s distribution template and are confident that the rice will reach those who truly need it.”
Also speaking at the event, Ekpomokumor Mayor, Chairman of the Bayelsa State chapter of the Joint National Association of People with Disability (JNAPWD), thanked the Foundation for remembering them in difficult times and appreciated the state government for including them as beneficiaries.
With the official launch completed, the distribution now moves to the eight local government areas of Bayelsa, where local councillors will supervise delivery to ensure the rice reaches intended recipients in each ward.
