Ramadan: FG to distribute free rice to Nigerians

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Renewed Hope Ambassadors to begin the distribution of rice across all states of the federation to support Nigerians observing Ramadan and Lent.

According to a statement, the initiative is aimed at providing relief to families during the ongoing fasting periods observed by both Muslims and Christians across the country.

The president said the intervention reflects the spirit of compassion, charity and solidarity that the two sacred seasons represent for millions of Nigerians.

Under the directive, the Renewed Hope Ambassadors will deploy their nationwide grassroots network to coordinate the distribution through state, local government and ward structures to ensure that families across the country benefit from the support.

Tinubu noted that a similar intervention was carried out during the Christmas celebrations last year when rice was distributed nationwide to support Nigerians during the festive season.

He added that the continuation of the programme reflects his administration’s commitment to standing with citizens during important religious and cultural moments while promoting unity and shared national values.

Commenting on the initiative, the Governor of Imo State and Director-General of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Hope Uzodimma, said the programme underscores the president’s belief in strengthening national unity through acts of care and support for citizens.

Uzodimma noted that Ramadan and Lent are seasons that remind Nigerians of sacrifice, generosity and the importance of caring for one another, adding that the Renewed Hope Ambassadors network will ensure the distribution reaches communities across the federation.

He further explained that the Renewed Hope Ambassadors initiative, launched in February 2026, serves as a nationwide grassroots platform designed to deepen citizen engagement, strengthen community support systems and advance the ideals of unity, compassion and national progress under the Tinubu–Shettima administration.

Officials added that the rice distribution will focus on reaching low-income households and vulnerable groups, particularly families struggling with rising food prices and the cost of living.

Community leaders and local coordinators are expected to help identify beneficiaries to ensure the support gets to those who need it most during the fasting period.

While many Nigerians have welcomed the initiative as a form of relief during the fasting season, some civil society groups have also called for long-term measures to address food prices and economic hardship across the country.

They noted that although food support programmes provide temporary relief, broader economic reforms are needed to improve the living conditions of citizens.