The announcement was made by the Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr. Aliko Dangote, during the project’s inauguration ceremony on Thursday in Kano. Represented by his daughter, Marya Aliko-Dangote, he explained that the initiative reflects the foundation’s commitment to compassion, solidarity, and shared responsibility in response to the nation’s current economic challenges.
“The distribution of one million bags of 10kg rice to the poor and most vulnerable Nigerians across all 774 Local Government Areas aligns with the core values of this foundation. We are working closely with state governments to ensure the food reaches those who need it most,” he stated.
Dangote emphasized that the foundation is dedicated to improving the living conditions of Nigerians through various support projects, including efforts to address hunger, water supply issues, and the enhancement of health, education, and economic empowerment at the community level.
He called on other industrialists and organizations to join the fight against hunger by initiating programs that provide food for vulnerable Nigerians. “There is a need to complement government efforts in tackling hunger and poverty through public-private partnerships. I commend the government at all levels for their efforts in addressing the food crisis, and I am confident that, with time, we will overcome these challenges. Let us support the government in achieving its goal of a better life for Nigerians,” he added.
Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf of Kano State, represented by Deputy Governor Aminu Abdulsalam-Gwarzo, praised the initiative, noting that it reflects Dangote’s unwavering commitment to alleviating poverty and hunger in Nigeria. He highlighted that the intervention would significantly ease hardships, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
The governor also revealed that the state government has established a committee, including relevant stakeholders and security agencies, to ensure transparency in the distribution process.
In her remarks, the Managing Director of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Zouera Youssoufou, reiterated the foundation’s dedication to giving back to society and supporting government efforts to combat poverty and hunger.
Additionally, Dr. Mujahid Aminudeen, Deputy Commander-General of the Kano State Hisbah Board, commended the foundation for the initiative and urged others to follow Dangote’s example. He assured that the Hisbah Board would actively participate in ensuring the food reaches the intended beneficiaries.