Families in Rivers State have received food support through the Renewed Hope Initiative Food Outreach Programme held at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
The programme drew the participation of the wives of 14 governors, the wife of the Chief of Staff to the President, and several other dignitaries.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, represented by former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, said the initiative was created to provide assistance to vulnerable households nationwide.
She noted that support from development partners has made it possible for the outreach to cover two states monthly, adding that the programme has now been implemented in 25 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with Rivers State becoming the 26th state to benefit.
According to her, the intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, particularly in addressing food challenges and improving the welfare of vulnerable citizens.
Edu also revealed plans to establish food banks in primary healthcare centres across local government areas to cater to pregnant women and nursing mothers.In her address, the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Ngozi Odu, described the programme as a meaningful intervention that offers both relief and dignity to struggling families.
She stressed that social investment programmes should be viewed as a duty of government and not merely acts of charity.
Professor Odu further praised the initiative for complementing the efforts of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in improving the living conditions of residents.
