Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched a major food security initiative. She unveiled the National Community Food Bank Programme in Nigeria’s North-East region. The unveiling took place on Monday in Maiduguri, Borno State capital. During the event, Mrs Tinubu highlighted the programme’s humanitarian focus. She explained that it targets hunger and malnutrition across vulnerable communities.
Furthermore, she stressed the need to support children and mothers first. According to her, the initiative marks a critical intervention in Borno State. She described the launch as both a privilege and a responsibility. Additionally, she dedicated the programme to improving public welfare nationwide. Earlier reports confirmed strong financial backing for the programme.
Total pledges exceeded N66bn during its official launch in Abuja. The event also included the inauguration of its Board of Trustees. The Coordinating Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate, confirmed these contributions. He spoke during a keynote session hosted by the First Lady. Notably, the Aliko Dangote Foundation pledged N20bn in-kind support. Similarly, NNPC Limited committed N10bn over five years.
Meanwhile, the Emeka Offor Foundation donated N500m upfront. Anonymous donors also contributed $500,000 to strengthen the initiative. In addition, President Bola Tinubu approved a N17bn intervention fund. The programme will establish food banks in every local government area. It will partner with primary healthcare centres and the Bank of Agriculture. Importantly, it will distribute nutritious, locally sourced food using vouchers. Beneficiaries include children, pregnant women, and vulnerable households nationwide.
