The Oyo State Government has officially launched the second phase of its Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) initiative, with the distribution of 10kg bags of rice to 30,000 vulnerable residents across the state.
The symbolic flag-off ceremony took place on Wednesday at the Local Government Training School, Secretariat, Ibadan. According to the state government, the food relief initiative is targeted at socially disadvantaged groups including widows, persons living with disabilities, the aged, and other vulnerable members of society across all 33 local government areas.
Speaking at the event, the Secretary of the SAfER Committee and Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Professor Musibau Babatunde, emphasized the program’s goal of alleviating poverty and enhancing the welfare of residents.
“This marks the continuation of Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to easing the burden of economic hardship faced by many residents,” Babatunde said. “The 30,000 bags of rice were donated by the Aliko Dangote Foundation as part of a strategic private-sector partnership.”
The Commissioner noted that the second phase of SAfER is being rolled out to ensure inclusivity and reach the most vulnerable demographics. “From the physically challenged to the elderly and underprivileged, every corner of Oyo State will feel the impact of this intervention,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Edero Victor Ejiro, Head of Operations at the Aliko Dangote Foundation, explained that the rice distribution is part of a nationwide initiative launched in 2024 to deliver one million 10kg bags of rice to those most in need.
“We are here to present 30,000 bags to Oyo State, and we commend Governor Makinde for his relentless focus on supporting the poorest of the poor. This effort complements his government’s own strategies aimed at tackling hunger and improving nutrition,” Ejiro stated.
He encouraged beneficiaries to also extend kindness by sharing with others around them, stressing the Foundation’s longstanding commitment to nutrition, empowerment, and education. “What we are doing today is part of a broader mission that the Foundation has pursued for over 30 years,” he said.
Hon. Olufemi Timothy, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to both the state government and the Dangote Foundation for their continued support to the vulnerable.
Several beneficiaries also expressed appreciation. Mrs. Omotayo Borode, Alhaji Tajudeen Olapade, and Mr. Emmanuel Adepoju each thanked Governor Makinde and the Dangote Foundation, describing the intervention as timely and impactful.
The event was attended by key government officials, representatives of the Dangote Foundation, and selected beneficiaries from across the 33 local government areas of the state.
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