The Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has donated 10,000 bags of 25kg of rice to religious bodies, groups and representatives of special needs schools, to mark the Holy month of Ramadan.
Wike, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Chidi Amadi, during the distribution exercise in Gwagwalada on Monday, emphasised the significance and importance of giving, as marked by the Ramadan season of prayer, fasting and almsgiving.
Wike also noted that the distribution reflected his commitment to ensuring support for religious communities and the needy in the FCT while charging religious leaders to ensure equitable distribution of food items.
“Ramadan is a very unique time and season in the life of our Muslim brothers. It is a period and a season that has deep religious implications. This season is marked by fasting, prayer and almsgiving. And in that wise, the Honourable Minister has considered it important, that aspect of the Ramadan season that goes with almsgiving.
“The Honourable Minister has considered it important to identify with our Muslim brothers in FCT. He has especially provided over 10,000 bags of rice to be distributed to the various religious leaders, religious associations, and groups. And here we are today to ensure that that directive and that provision is formally handed over to the recipients.
“I want to urge our religious leaders and associations, please, as these items are made available to you, do well to ensure that they are well distributed. It is a time when we need to identify with the needy in our society, the less privileged in our society, and those who truly need some form of assistance. 10,000 bags of rice will go a long way to reach out to most of us in this season,” Amadi said.
The Principal of the School for the Deaf, Alhaji Abdulrazzaq Ademola, thanked the Minister for the donation, which he said will help mitigate the impact of rising food prices, especially for vulnerable groups.
“We are very grateful for this kind gesture. The Honourable Minister has shown true leadership and compassion. His support for educational institutions, particularly those catering to special needs children, is commendable. This donation comes at a crucial time when food prices are high, and it will greatly benefit those in need,” Ademola stated.
Chief Imam of the FCT Minister’s official residence, Imam Lawal Mustapha, who received the items on behalf of other religious leaders, also expressed appreciation for the donations, while urging leaders to strive to support their communities.
“This act of generosity reflects true leadership. In our faith, kindness deserves kindness, and we extend our prayers for the Minister’s continued success and protection. Leaders should always strive to support their communities, and this initiative is a shining example of that responsibility,” Mustapha said.
