Oluremi Tinubu tasks South-West governors on food security, launches Ogun food bank
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Tuesday launched the South-West Zonal National Community Food Bank in Ogun State, urging state governments across the region to replicate the initiative to strengthen the fight against food insecurity and malnutrition.
Speaking at the launch held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Senator Tinubu said the programme was designed to ensure that vulnerable Nigerians, particularly children and pregnant and lactating women, have sustained access to nutritious food.
She called on governors in the South-West to establish community food banks in their respective states in partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), stressing that such collaboration would facilitate the supply of food items and provide the operational support needed to sustain the initiative.
The first lady described the National Community Food Bank Programme as a deliberate and sustainable response to food insecurity and malnutrition among vulnerable households, noting that it specifically targets children under six years of age, pregnant women and lactating mothers.
According to her, 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.
Senator Tinubu commended Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his commitment to the welfare and development of the people, citing the newly commissioned Gateway Medical Centre of Excellence and the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate as examples of projects that directly impact citizens’ lives.
She stressed that state governments were expected to take ownership of the facilities, adding that the Federal Government’s vision extended beyond the establishment of the initial food banks.
In his remarks, the chief host, Governor Dapo Abiodun, said the programme demonstrated the shared vision and common purpose of the Federal Government and Ogun State in building a more prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.
