By Bisola Adetilewa
The programme, held at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome), Akure, was represented by the wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, who said the initiative seeks to improve access to nutritious food while strengthening community support systems for vulnerable Nigerians, including persons with disabilities, widows and low-income families.
According to the First Lady, the Food Outreach Scheme, launched in March 2024, is supported by monthly donations from the Abdusamad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) and another anonymous donor, enabling two states to benefit every month. She explained that the food items distributed in Ondo State were donated by ASR Africa and described the programme as part of the broader Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at reducing poverty and improving citizens' welfare.
Mrs. Tinubu commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to the welfare of Ondo residents and also praised the governor's wife, Mrs. Esther Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, for coordinating the successful implementation of Renewed Hope Initiative programmes in the state.
Speaking at the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the outreach as a clear demonstration of the Federal Government's commitment to addressing poverty and supporting vulnerable Nigerians. He said the programme represented compassion, solidarity and a shared commitment to improving the lives of the less privileged.
The governor lauded the Renewed Hope Initiative for identifying and addressing pressing community needs while commending President Tinubu's administration for supporting programmes that directly impact vulnerable citizens.
Reaffirming his administration's support for the Federal Government, Aiyedatiwa declared that Ondo State had already endorsed President Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election, pledging continued political support for the President's second-term ambition.
He noted that the food outreach aligns with his administration's OUR EASE Development Agenda, particularly its focus on improving the welfare of women, children and families, adding that food security remains essential to human dignity, social stability and economic development.
Represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Abosede Adelami, the First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs. Esther Aiyedatiwa, described the outreach as a demonstration of compassionate leadership that restores dignity and offers hope to vulnerable families.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of ASR Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh, said the organisation remains committed to supporting interventions that provide relief, build resilient communities and improve lives through investments in health, education and social development.
The event attracted senior government officials, traditional and religious leaders, security chiefs, local government chairmen, members of the State Executive Council and other stakeholders committed to promoting social welfare across Ondo State.
