Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has made a compelling call for Nigerians to unite and collaborate with government authorities at all levels in the ongoing battle against poverty and hunger. Speaking at the New Festival Hall in Government House, Benin City, during the distribution of 13,000 bags of rice to vulnerable groups in the state, the governor emphasized that addressing these challenges requires collective action and shared responsibility.
The rice distribution event saw the handing out of 10-kilogram bags, generously donated by a prominent foundation dedicated to improving food security and supporting vulnerable populations. Governor Okpebholo, who was represented at the event by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, expressed profound gratitude to the donor and their foundation for their remarkable generosity and compassion. He described the donation as a clear testament to the foundation’s commitment to helping those most in need.
“This donation is a testament to the Foundation’s commitment to alleviating poverty and promoting food security as well as supporting the most vulnerable members of society,” Okpebholo said. “The initiative to distribute one million bags of rice to the 774 local government areas across the country is a laudable demonstration of corporate social responsibility and partnership.”
He further underlined the state government’s alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes food security and economic revitalization across Nigeria. “Our administration is proud to be part of a broader national effort to ensure that no Nigerian goes hungry. Edo State has launched its own Back to Farm project, which aims to cultivate 3,000 hectares of land across the three senatorial districts. This project is designed to increase agricultural output, create jobs, and move us closer to food self-sufficiency.”
The Back to Farm initiative, Okpebholo explained, seeks not only to boost food production but also to empower local farmers with the tools, training, and resources needed to improve yields sustainably. “We believe that empowering farmers is key to addressing hunger long-term. Agriculture is the backbone of our economy, and revitalizing this sector is critical to lifting millions out of poverty.”
Governor Okpebholo also took the opportunity to urge well-meaning Nigerians, especially wealthy individuals and corporate organizations, to follow the example set by philanthropic leaders such as Aliko Dangote. “The fight against poverty and hunger is not the sole responsibility of government; it is a collective duty. Through collaborations, donations, and community partnerships, we can build a resilient, secure, and prosperous future for all Nigerians,” he said.
Regarding the distribution process, the governor was keen to assure the public that the distribution of rice would be handled transparently and fairly. “We are committed to ensuring that these resources reach the people they are meant for — the vulnerable and marginalized who need them most. We will carry out this exercise with utmost integrity to maintain public trust and maximize impact.”
This rice distribution program is part of a broader strategy by Edo State to provide immediate relief to vulnerable populations while simultaneously investing in long-term solutions for food security. The state government has also implemented various social welfare programs targeting low-income families, women, and children, aiming to reduce the impacts of economic hardship exacerbated by inflation and recent global challenges.
Experts and community leaders have lauded Edo State’s approach, noting that such multi-faceted strategies are essential to tackling hunger and poverty in a sustainable manner. By combining direct food aid with agricultural development and community engagement, the government hopes to create lasting change that will uplift the entire state and serve as a model for other regions.
As Edo State moves forward with these initiatives, Governor Okpebholo’s message is clear: the struggle against poverty and hunger is one that requires unity, compassion, and cooperative effort across every sector of society. With continued collaboration, there is hope that Nigeria can overcome these challenges and secure a better future for all its citizens.
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