'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has pledged that no citizen of the state should go to bed hungry under his leadership. He made this declaration on Monday at the official flag-off of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Food Outreach Programme in Lokoja.
A statement today by his spokesperson Ismaila Isah said that the Governor Ododo emphasized his administration’s strong commitment to food security, stating that while Kogi State fully supports the federal government’s intervention, it will also expand its own quarterly food distribution program to reach more vulnerable households. He described the Renewed Hope Initiative’s food support program as a “timely and compassionate” intervention that aligns with the state’s vision to alleviate economic hardship for its citizens.
Beyond food aid, the governor reaffirmed his dedication to empowering women and youth, noting that Kogi State has already exceeded the 35% affirmative action for women’s inclusion in government appointments and elective positions. He assured that his administration would continue implementing policies aimed at improving the economic well-being of residents.
Governor Ododo also called on Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, affirming Kogi State’s alignment with the federal government’s economic recovery and social welfare programs.
Speaking at the event, Hajia Nana Shettima, Wife of the Vice President, who represented First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, stressed the importance of ensuring the food items reach their intended beneficiaries. She cautioned against reselling the supplies and encouraged recipients to use them for their well-being.
"This initiative is not just about food; it is about restoring dignity, giving hope, and providing relief to the most vulnerable among us," she said.
Shettima highlighted that the RHI Food Outreach Programme has already impacted several states, with plans for further expansion. She also noted other components of the initiative, including grants for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), climate change awareness programs for students, and the ‘Flow with Confidence’ Initiative, which provides sanitary materials to young girls in rural areas to support school attendance.
Kogi State First Lady and RHI State Coordinator, Hajia Safinat Usman Ododo, commended the First Lady for her intervention, acknowledging its role in alleviating hardship among the less privileged in the state. She reiterated the commitment of Kogi women to national development efforts and pledged to work with communities to address their needs effectively.
Spearheaded by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the Renewed Hope Initiative Food Outreach Programme is designed to combat hunger and provide relief to vulnerable Nigerians across all states of the federation.
