Dangote foundation begins rice distribution to vulnerable in Delta

The Aliko Dangote Foundation has flagged off a major food support programme in Delta State with the distribution of 10,000 bags of 10kg rice to vulnerable individuals and households across the state.
The launch event, held Tuesday in Asaba, marked another milestone in the Foundation’s ongoing nationwide humanitarian effort targeting Nigeria’s most at-risk populations.
Representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the ceremony, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, praised the Foundation’s gesture, describing it as timely and consistent with the administration’s welfare-focused agenda.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our MORE Agenda, which prioritises the well-being of every Deltan,” Oborevwori said in a message delivered by Emu.
“While the rice distributed today may not solve all our problems, it embodies compassion, care, and shared humanity, ” he added.
He commended Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his sustained philanthropic efforts through the Foundation, which he described as one of Africa’s largest and most impactful.
“Alhaji Dangote is not doing this for recognition or politics, but out of a genuine desire to uplift humanity,” the governor stated.
He also reiterated his government’s commitment to social support, citing existing interventions such as the monthly support for 10,000 widows costing N1.8 billion annually and the expansion of the State Contributory Health Scheme.
Gôvernor Oborevwori said various ministries have also implemented empowerment initiatives reaching thousands of residents.
He urged all stakeholders involved in the rice distribution to ensure fairness and transparency, stressing that the relief must reach its intended recipients, particularly widows, the elderly, persons with disabilities, orphanages, and charity organisations.
Speaking on behalf of the Foundation, Mr. Victor Ejiro, Head of Operations, reaffirmed its dedication to addressing the needs of vulnerable Nigerians.
“We are here in Delta State to distribute 10,000 bags of rice to support individuals and families facing hardship.
“This is part of a national programme that covers all 774 local government areas across the country, ” he said.
According to Ejiro, the Aliko Dangote Foundation established over 30 years ago, has consistently delivered in areas of health, education, nutrition, and economic empowerment.
He emphasised that the current intervention focused on market women, artisans, widows, and the physically challenged.
“We are working closely with local government councils to ensure direct delivery to beneficiaries in their communities,” he added.
Earlier in her remarks, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Hon. Pat Ajudua, highlighted the significance of the gesture, especially given the economic strain on vulnerable groups following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Every support like this makes a real difference. We see this as a beginning of more fruitful partnerships because, in Delta, we believe in giving and asking for more, ” she said.
Also, Chairman of Okpe Local Government Council and State ALGON Chairman, Chief Isaiah Esiovwa, also expressed appreciation on behalf of the 25 local government chairmen, commending the Foundation for demonstrating true leadership in compassion.
“This initiative stands as a clear example of service and social responsibility.
“We thank the Dangote Foundation for supporting our most vulnerable citizens, ” said.
Among the identified beneficiaries of the rice distribution were persons with disabilities, elderly residents, ex-lepers, orphanage and charity homes, as well as members of the Christian and Muslim communities.