Why we’re distributing food items to vulnerable Nigerians — Oluremi Tinubu

Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of President Bola Tinubu has intensified efforts to address hunger and child malnutrition through the establishment of community food banks and expanded food outreach programmes under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), saying one of te major goals of the distribution is to hellp every Nigerian pursue their aspirations, no matter their circumstances.

BusinessDay reports that the initiative, aimed at improving access to nutritious food and strengthening community support systems, was extended to Ondo State on Tuesday as vulnerable groups benefited from the RHI Social Investment Programme Food Outreach Scheme held at the International Culture and Event Centre (The Dome), Akure.

Tinubu, who spoke at the event through the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, said the intervention is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative’s commitment to supporting vulnerable Nigerians and ensuring children have the opportunity to grow, remain healthy and thrive.

She said the Food Outreach Scheme was launched in March 2024 to provide food items to persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups, thereby supporting their families and improving their well-being.

According to her, the programme was made possible through the commitment of two donors who provide two truckloads of food items to the Renewed Hope Initiative every month, allowing two states to benefit monthly.

She identified the donors as the Abdusamad Rabiu Africa Initiative and another donor who preferred to remain anonymous, adding that the consignment delivered to Ondo State was provided by the Abdusamad Rabiu Africa Initiative.

The First Lady said the Renewed Hope Initiative complements the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, by supporting Nigerians to pursue their aspirations irrespective of their circumstances or status, while addressing food insecurity and malnutrition.

She commended Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for his commitment to the welfare and development of the people of the state.

She also praised the wife of the governor, Oluwaseun Esther Aiyedatiwa, for her dedication to the successful implementation of Renewed Hope Initiative programmes and support for vulnerable groups.

In his remarks, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the intervention as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to alleviating poverty and supporting vulnerable Nigerians.

The governor said the programme went beyond food distribution, describing it as a celebration of compassion, solidarity and a shared commitment to improving the lives of the less privileged.

He commended the Renewed Hope Initiative for its vision and dedication to identifying and addressing pressing needs within communities.

Aiyedatiwa also praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for supporting the initiative, saying it reflected the President’s commitment to reducing poverty across the country.

Earlier, in her welcome address, Esther Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the objectives of the Renewed Hope Initiative, pledging continued collaboration with the Federal Government to expand support for vulnerable residents through social intervention programmes.

Represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Abosede Adelami, the governor’s wife described the food outreach as a demonstration of compassionate leadership, saying it was not only about distributing food items but also about restoring dignity, extending compassion and reaffirming commitment to the welfare of the people.