*The Aliko Dangote Foundation begins distribution of bags of rice to members of host communities of Dangote Cement Plc as part of a broader strategy to complement Nigerian Government’s efforts at mitigating the impact of economic headwinds on consumers citizens
Alexander Davis | ConsumerConnect
As part of significant effort at supporting the Nigerian Government to alleviate the burden of rising food costs on vulnerable consumers and households, the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has said it commenced the distribution of bags of rice to members of host communities of Dangote Cement Plc across the country.
Dangote Group, in a statement, noted the Foundation said the food initiative formed part of its National Food Intervention Programme aimed at cushioning the effects of prevailing economic challenges on ordinary Nigerians.
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The distribution exercise, which is being rolled out across communities where Dangote Cement operates in Ibese and Itori, both in Ogun state, underscores the Dangote Group’s commitment to inclusive growth and community wellbeing.
In what has now become an annual event, in which thousands of 10kg bags of rice are being distributed to beneficiaries from 17 host communities in Ibese and 36 others in Itori and Ijebu-Igbo, in Ogun State, with focus on low-income families, elderly residents, and other vulnerable groups within the host communities.
Speaking on the initiative, Zouera Youssoufou, ADF Chief Executive, represented by Victor Ejiro, ADF Head of Operations, reaffirmed that the food intervention programme reflects the organisation’s long-standing dedication to food security and poverty alleviation, particularly during periods of economic strain.
Youssoufou said: “This intervention is designed to provide immediate relief to households grappling with high food prices.
“As a socially responsible organisation, we recognise the importance of supporting our host communities beyond business operations.”
The Chief Executive of ADF said: “At the Aliko Dangote Foundation, we recognise the current economic realities facing many Nigerian households.
“This intervention is aimed at providing immediate relief while reinforcing our long-standing commitment to the wellbeing of our host communities.”
She also noted: “We understand the difficulties families are facing at this time.
“This support is our way of standing with our communities and ensuring that no household is left behind during these challenging times. Sustainable development goes beyond business operations.”
Youssoufou stated: “Through this programme, we are strengthening community resilience and contributing to national efforts to improve food access and social stability.
“This intervention is focused on delivering real, immediate support to vulnerable households. “We will continue to expand our reach to ensure more families benefit from this programme.”
At the Ibese distribution centre, The Aboro of Ibeseland, Oba Rotimi Oluseyi Mulero thanked the giving spirit of Alhaji Dangote describing the rice distribution as “operation feed the families”.
Oba Mulero stated excitedly: “On behalf of our people, I extend our profound gratitude to the Aliko Dangote Foundation for this timely and commendable gesture.
“At a time when many families are facing economic challenges, this distribution of food items will go a long way in alleviating hardship within our communities.”
The ADF Chief: “We appreciate Dangote Group not only as a business partner but as a responsible corporate citizen that continues to demonstrate genuine concern for the wellbeing of its host communities. “We pray that this partnership continues to flourish for the benefit of all.”
Oba Mulero said: “Today, our hearts are filled with appreciation.
“This support has come at a very critical time for our people.
“Many households are under pressure, and this intervention will bring relief and hope to families.”
Accordance to Dangote, some of the Community leaders and beneficiaries also expressed appreciation to the ADF Chairman, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, for the gesture, noting that the rice distribution comes at a critical time when many families are facing financial pressures due to inflation and rising living costs.
Besides, at Itori, the Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo, said his people’s hearts were filled with appreciation.
Oba Akamo stated: “This support has come at a very critical time for our people.
“Many households are under pressure, and this intervention will bring relief and hope to families.
“We thank Alhaji Aliko Dangote and his Foundation for remembering the grassroots and standing by us in times of need.”
The monarch said: “We are deeply grateful for this act of kindness.
“May the Almighty bless the Dangote Group and increase its capacity to continue doing good for humanity.”
At several distribution points, orderly processes were put in place to ensure transparency and equitable access.
Local coordinators, in collaboration with community representatives, supervised the exercise to guarantee that the items reached intended beneficiaries.
The Dangote Cement host communities, spread across key states including Ogun, Kogi, Benue, Edo, and others, have historically benefitted from numerous Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by the Dangote Group, ranging from infrastructure development to healthcare, education, and economic empowerment programmes.
The ongoing food intervention aligns with the Foundation’s broader strategy to enhance food access and strengthen social safety nets across Nigeria.
The Foundation as well explained the effort has complemented government efforts at mitigating the impact of economic headwinds on citizens.
Industry observers note that such private sector-driven interventions are increasingly crucial in bridging gaps in social welfare delivery, especially in times of economic uncertainty.
The Aliko Dangote Foundation, one of the largest private philanthropic organisations in Africa, continues to play a pivotal role in supporting national development priorities through targeted interventions in health, education, and economic empowerment.
As the rice distribution progresses, the Foundation has reiterated its commitment to expanding the reach of the programme to cover more communities in need, reinforcing its mission to improve the quality of life for Nigerians.