In a massive humanitarian effort that brought hope to thousands, the Aliko Dangote Foundation has delivered life-saving food assistance to 40,000 vulnerable families in Borno State, providing much-needed relief during the holy month of Ramadan and amid Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges.
Historic Nationwide Initiative Comes to Northeast Nigeria
The distribution event, held in Maiduguri on March 29, 2025, represents just one part of the Foundation’s unprecedented N16 billion nationwide food intervention program. This ambitious initiative aims to distribute one million 10kg bags of rice across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria, with Borno State receiving special attention due to its history of insurgency and food insecurity.
Government Officials Laud Timely Intervention
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, speaking through the Director General of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Ali Abdullahi Isa, described the donation as “a game-changer in our fight against hunger.” The Governor emphasized that the intervention came at a critical time when many families were struggling with rising food prices and economic instability.
“Today we witness corporate social responsibility at its finest,” Governor Zulum stated. “This donation will directly impact 40,000 households in our state, meaning approximately 280,000 individuals will have food on their tables during this sacred month.”
The Human Face of the Crisis: Beneficiaries Share Their Stories
Among the beneficiaries was Aisha Modu, a 34-year-old mother of four who was displaced from her hometown by insurgent activities. Holding her bag of rice, she fought back tears as she shared her story: “For weeks, I’ve been skipping meals to ensure my children eat. This rice means I can finally prepare proper iftar meals for my family during Ramadan.”
Umaru Aliyu, a 60-year-old farmer who lost his livelihood to flooding last year, described the donation as divine intervention. “I’ve been surviving on one meal a day. With this rice, my six children and I can eat properly for weeks,” he said, clutching his bag tightly.
Dangote Foundation’s Commitment to Humanitarian Causes
Usman Muhammad, representing the Aliko Dangote Foundation, explained that the Borno distribution was part of the Foundation’s broader mission to combat hunger nationwide. “We recognize that food security is fundamental to human dignity,” Muhammad stated. “Our founder, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, believes that no Nigerian should go to bed hungry, especially during this holy month.”
The Foundation has deployed a sophisticated logistics network to ensure transparent and equitable distribution. In Borno alone, the operation involved:
- 20 distribution centers across the state
- 150 trained personnel
- Strict monitoring to prevent diversion
- Special provisions for widows, orphans, and persons with disabilities
Economic Context: Why This Intervention Matters
The food aid comes at a critical juncture for Nigeria, where:
- Food inflation stands at 35.4% (March 2025)
- Staple food prices have increased by over 300% in some regions
- 25 million Nigerians face acute food insecurity
- The Northeast remains the most affected region
Economic analysts have praised the intervention as both timely and strategic. Dr. Fatima Bello of the University of Maiduguri noted: “Private sector interventions like this help bridge critical gaps when government resources are stretched. The multiplier effect of feeding 40,000 families will be felt across Borno’s economy.”
Ramadan Spirit in Action
The distribution has taken on special significance during Ramadan, when Muslims worldwide emphasize charity and community support. Local religious leaders have incorporated the donation into their sermons, highlighting the Islamic principle of Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity).
Imam Muhammad Kabir of Maiduguri Central Mosque commented: “This act of generosity embodies the true spirit of Ramadan. When those blessed with wealth remember the less fortunate, it strengthens our entire community.”
Looking Ahead: Sustainable Solutions Needed
While celebrating the immediate relief, stakeholders emphasize the need for long-term solutions. The Borno State government has announced plans to:
- Establish more irrigation farming projects
- Provide agricultural inputs to displaced farmers
- Develop food storage facilities
- Partner with organizations like the Dangote Foundation on sustainable programs
A Model for Corporate Social Responsibility
The Dangote Foundation’s intervention sets a new benchmark for corporate philanthropy in Nigeria. Business ethics experts suggest this model could inspire other wealthy Nigerians to contribute more substantially to poverty alleviation efforts.
Read also: “Nigeria’s Petrol Imports Hit 154 Million Litres Weekly as Marketers Dump Dangote Refinery”
As distribution continues across Nigeria, all eyes remain on Borno – a state that has endured more than its share of crises but continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, buoyed by interventions like this one that bring hope where it’s needed most.
