From Nwogha Ndubuisi, Abakaliki
Ebonyi State government has flagged-off the distribution of 12,000 bags of 10kg rice to citizens.
The event, held in Abakaliki, marked the beginning of the 2025 Food Intervention Programme initiated in partnership with Aliko Dangote Foundation.
Performing the function on behalf of Governor Francis Nwifuru, the Commissioner for Human Capital Development and Monitoring, Mrs Ann Aligwe, said the gesture was aimed at alleviating the hardship faced by vulnerable groups in the state.
She disclosed that, in addition to the rice donation, Governor Nwifuru approved funds for the procurement of garri, macaroni and spaghetti, to be distributed across the 13 local government areas and wards.
“The governor’s cordial relationship with the founder of Dangote Foundation made this partnership possible. This initiative is in line with the 2025 food intervention programme designed to cushion the effect of the economic hardship on our people, especially widows, the aged, physically challenged and market women.”
According to her, about 650 beneficiaries were selected for the initial phase of the flag-off, while the main distribution will continue at the local government level to ensure that the food items reach every community.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Operations, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mr Edero Ejioro, said the foundation commenced the food intervention programme last year, targeting the annual distribution of over one million bags of rice nationwide.
He noted that the initiative was designed to curtail the growing hunger across Nigeria and commended the Ebonyi State government for its collaboration and support.
Some of the beneficiaries, including Mrs Oyim Catherine from Ozizza and Mrs Ngozi Ukah from Afikpo, expressed appreciation to Governor Nwifuru for his continued focus on human capital development and prayed for more wisdom for the first family.
Distribution of the food items to various local government councils commenced immediately after the flag-off ceremony.
