Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has flagged off the distribution of 20,000 bags of rice donated by the Aliko Dangote Foundation(ADF) to the people of the State.
Speaking at the flag off ceremony in Jos on Tuesday, the Governor expressed gratitude to the Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Aliko Dangote for the gesture.
Mutfwang admonished wealthy individuals to emulate him.
The Foundation had early in the year commenced the distribution of one million bags of rice across the 774 Local Government Areas of Nigeria.
The Governor said the 20,000 bags of rice from the ADF will be distributed to the poor and vulnerable persons in the state.
He said the ADF ‘s Annual Food Programme is in alignment with the State’s poverty alleviation effort.
“We are taking every step to alleviate poverty in Plateau State,” he said.
He noted that Dangote has contributed enormously to the development of the Nigerian economy by creating employment opportunities in the country.
He said: “I want to express our profound gratitude to Alhaji Aliko Dangote for this very kind gesture of giving back to society.
“This is truly worthy of commendation and emulation.
“He has demonstrated that no matter how wealthy one is, without remembering the poor, such wealth holds little value.
“We are sincerely thankful for the risks he has taken to expand the Nigerian economy, especially his recent efforts in the oil and gas sector.
“As a people, we wish him continued success in all his endeavours.
“On behalf of the vulnerable population in our state, the poorest of the poor, we say thank you and pray that God rewards him abundantly.”
The governor urged other philanthropists and kind-hearted individuals to support government efforts in assisting the less privileged, assuring that the state is implementing measures to improve their welfare.
He added: “On behalf of the government and people of Plateau, please extend our heartfelt gratitude to Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
“I will personally write to appreciate this gesture – but tell him that we need more.’’
In his remarks, Executive Secretary, Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mr. Sunday Abdul thanked the Aliko Dangote Foundation for its support, pledging transparent and equitable distribution of the relief materials.
“We thank you, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, for your large heart.
“Thank you, Your Excellency, for your inspiring leadership. Together, we are building a better future for Plateau State.
“We are confident this distribution will significantly ease the hardship faced by our most vulnerable citizens, and we look forward to further collaborations that uplift the lives of our people,’ he added.
Representatives of the Aliko Dangote Foundation at the event, Bashir Adamu-Kawu, reiterated that the donation was part of the philanthropic schemes of the ADF aimed at supporting the poor and the most vulnerable members of society. (vitalnewsngr.com)
