Dangote donates 30,000 bags of rice to vulnerable groups in Yobe

Dangote donates 30,000 bags of rice to vulnerable groups in Yobe

The Aliko Dangote Foundation on Thursday flagged off the distribution of 30,000 bags of 10 Kg rice to vulnerable persons in Yobe.

Speaking during the event in Damaturu, Gov.Mai Mala Buni described the gesture as a welcome intervention to complement the state government’s humanitarian initiatives.

“It is with great pleasure that we are here today for yet another humanitarian assistance.

“This is the flag-off of the distribution of 30,000 bags of 10 Kg parboiled rice to further support our people, especially the less privileged and vulnerable persons,” Buni said.

The governor expressed appreciation to the foundation for its continued support to the state, particularly in the areas of humanitarian aid, primary healthcare, including routine immunisation programmes.

“This donation is yet another show of solidarity and continuous support to our ongoing efforts to improve food security among vulnerable populations and ease the hardship experienced by displaced persons and victims of recent fire outbreaks in some communities,” he added.

The governor charged community and local government distribution committees to ensure transparency and fairness in the distribution process.

He emphasised the need to give priority to deserving beneficiaries and warned that the government would closely monitor the exercise.

Buni also commended other development partners for their sustained support for the state’s stability, recovery and sustainable development programmes.

He urged the people of the state to engage more actively in agriculture, assuring them of the government’s continued commitment to supporting farmers with improved seeds, pesticides, machinery, and other inputs.

“I’m glad to inform you that members of the international business community, especially in Qatar and Morocco, have continued to show strong interest in our agricultural products.

“We will leverage these opportunities to empower farmers and youths and strengthen the state’s economic base,” the governor stated.

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Malam Abubakar Muhammed, the representative of the Dangote Foundation, said the donation was part of the Foundation’s nationwide initiative to ease the economic burden on vulnerable Nigerians.

“Alhaji Aliko Dangote, through his Foundation, decided to support the Yobe State government with 30,000 bags of rice to be distributed to vulnerable groups.

“This support also extends across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.

On his part, Dr Mohammed Goje, Executive Secretary of Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), emphasised the importance of preserving the dignity of beneficiaries during the distribution.

“Your Excellency, as you directed, 70 per cent of the beneficiaries are under the shed with their food baskets to ensure their dignity is protected.

“The few who are outside will be allowed in as the event progresses,” he said.

Goje reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to accountability and transparency in all humanitarian activities across the state.