By Bilesanmi Abayomi
In a remarkable effort to alleviate the hardships caused by the removal of fuel subsidy, Mayor Dele Oshinowo, the Executive Chairman of Agboyi Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Kosofe, Lagos, has taken the initiative to distribute over 6000 food packs to households. The move is a significant step towards eradicating hunger among vulnerable individuals within the council area.
Under the banner of the “We Lift Food Bank Initiative,” the central distribution event unfolded on Tuesday, August 14, 2023, at Doyin Omololu Street, Alapere. The food packs, which consisted of essential staples such as rice, beans, yam, garri, and yam tubers, were allocated for distribution across the seven wards encompassing the council.
Representing Mayor Dele Oshinowo, Vice Chairman Mrs. Folake Kayode, expressed the significance of the palliatives in supporting the broader governmental efforts to alleviate suffering among the disabled, low-income earners, and the marginalized within the society. The distribution event carried an underlying message of unity and resilience in the face of economic challenges.
Addressing the crowd, the Vice Chairman emphasized the collective responsibility of overcoming hardships, stating, “We have so many countries all over the world, if we read history, have gone through this. If we want things to be easier for us, it has to be hot. But after the hotness, there is going to be joy at the end of the day.”
The food distribution process is deliberately designed to reach the poorest and most vulnerable individuals within the community, with its management entrusted to the League of Imams and the representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The government oversees the entire process across the seven wards within Agboyi Ketu LCDA.
Pastor Michael Adekunle, representing the Christian Association of Nigeria in the area, hailed the Chairman’s palliative initiatives and underscored their importance in addressing the economic challenges at hand. The coordination of the exercise by both religious groups, in collaboration with the Community Development Committee, ensures the efficient distribution of resources and prevents political interference.
Imam Qosim Mustafa of the Orishigun Central Mosque expressed gratitude on behalf of the vulnerable individuals who would benefit from the palliatives. He encouraged patience and responsible management of the resources, fostering a reciprocal relationship between the government and the people.
The impact of the initiative was felt at distribution venues across the wards, drawing in individuals of all ages, including the elderly, people with disabilities, youths, and other vulnerable members of society. Beneficiaries conveyed their appreciation for the council’s proactive approach in extending a helping hand during these challenging times.
