Nigeria's First Lady launches National Community Food Bank, commissions estate in Ogun

Nigeria's First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, has launched the South-West Zonal National Community Food Bank in Ogun State, calling on regional governments to adopt similar initiatives. The program aims to bolster the fight against food insecurity and malnutrition, ensuring vulnerable populations have consistent access to nutritious food.

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The programme was designed to ensure that vulnerable Nigerians, particularly children and pregnant and lactating women, have sustained access to nutritious food.

Speaking at the launch event in Abeokuta, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that the food bank is designed to support children under six, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. She urged state governors to partner with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) to establish these banks, facilitating food supply and operational support. The initiative is presented as a sustainable response to food insecurity, with the ultimate goal of ensuring adequate nourishment for every Nigerian child.

The First Lady stated that the program aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 'Renewed Hope Agenda,' focusing on food security, healthcare, social protection, and human capital development. She commended Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his commitment to citizen welfare, citing the new Gateway Medical Centre of Excellence and the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate as impactful projects.

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The initiative is consistent with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly its commitment to food security, improved healthcare, social protection and human capital development.

Mrs. Tinubu clarified that the food bank specifically serves disadvantaged and vulnerable individuals free of charge, distinguishing it from a food hub. She stressed the importance of state governments taking ownership of these facilities and advocated for their placement near Primary Healthcare Centres for accessibility. Governor Abiodun echoed this sentiment, describing the initiative as a demonstration of a shared vision for a more prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.

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The programme demonstrated the shared vision and common purpose of the Federal Government and Ogun State in building a more prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.