FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has called on Nigerians to collaborate with government at all levels to fight against poverty and hunger in the country.
The governor made the call at the Government House, Benin City, during the distribution of 13,000 10kg bags of rice donated by Aliko Dangote Foundation to the vulnerable in the state.
Governor Okpebholo said the fight against poverty and hunger is a collective responsibility of all Nigerians, noting that through partnership, government will build a more resilient, secure and prosperous future for all.
Represented by his Deputy, Dennis Idahosa, the governor expressed gratitude to the donor and his foundation for the notable act of generosity and compassion.
He said the state had launched the Back to Farm project, aimed at cultivating 3,000 hectares of land across the three senatorial districts.
He called on Nigerians to emulate Dangote’s generosity, as the fight against poverty and hunger is a collective responsibility.
He stated that the effort underscored the administration’s commitment to achieve food sufficiency and enhance agricultural productivity.
“As we commence the distribution of rice to the vulnerable across the state, I assure you that the process will be transparent, equitable and will be carried out with utmost integrity. We will ensure that these items reach the vulnerable and communities that they are intended for,” he said.
Leader of market women in Edo State, Pastor Josephine Ebhaguejezele thanked the governor for all he has been doing for market women and vulnerable people in the state.
She noted that since the governor came on board, he has empowered youths, women and the vulnerable across the three senatorial districts.
She added that the previous administration had the same opportunities but preferred to store the items in warehouses and shared them with political allies, friends and family members, forgetting vulnerable people.
