By Taiye Olayemi
22Bet Nigeria, a betting platform, on Friday distributed 200 food boxes to vulnerable residents of Ebute-Metta area of Lagos as part of its Christmas outreach initiative.
Speaking during the outreach, Mr Fikayo Ogunfuye, Country Director of 22Bet Nigeria, said that the initiative reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting underprivileged communities.
Ogunfuye said the company partnered with the Lagos Food Bank on the initiative, having selected no fewer than 200 beneficiaries, including widows, widowers, retirees and low-income earners.
He said the food boxes, each valued at over N200,000, contained cereals and other stable food items suitable for families and children.
“This initiative was conceived to give back to the Lagos community, which has supported the company’s growth over the past five years.
“We have been in existence for about five years, and in that time, we have carried out several campaigns in Oyo and other states where we have always given back.
“This year, because it’s Christmas, we felt it was important to support people so they can celebrate and have a good Christmas.
“They’ve allowed us to be here and operate successfully, at the same time, we know the economy has been really hard, and many people may not have much to celebrate this season. So, we thought this would enrich lives and make people happy as the year ends.”
Explaining the choice of Ebute-Metta for the distribution, Ogunfuye said assessments showed that the community had a high concentration of vulnerable groups.
“We looked at areas that really needed support, we felt it was best to start here. Definitely, in the coming years, we will extend to other parts of Lagos,” he said.
He noted that while 200 boxes were not enough, the company planned to scale up in subsequent editions.
“Next time, we are looking at doing 1,000 boxes or even 5,000 boxes. This is a start, and we believe it is in the right direction.
“We appreciate everyone who came out today, and we are thankful for the opportunity to give back, we are glad to be here,” he said.
Also, Dr Michael Sunbola, Executive Director, Lagos Food Bank Initiative, said the partnership was aimed at helping households struggling with rising food prices and declining purchasing power.
“We are having a very robust partnership with 22 Bet Nigeria, The company has decided to use the Lagos Food Bank as a vehicle to actualise its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives and reach out to hundreds of families here.
“In this difficult economic climate, the need for this type of relief is very important.
“The items provided are premium and capable of sustaining a family of five for at least two weeks, depending on consumption patterns.
“Our aim is to put smiles on the faces of beneficiaries, who in turn will support their families.
“Poverty breeds hunger, and this is the least corporates can do to bring relief to vulnerable societies,” he said.
Sunbola noted that beneficiaries were pre-registered and issued cards to avoid disorderliness.
He said the Lagos Food Bank is currently active in about 170 communities.
He called on more corporate organisations to emulate the initiative, adding that many Nigerians faced worsening hardship.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms Adijat Salau, appreciated the kind gesture extended to her and offered prayers for the organisers.
Also, Ms Rashidat Bakare said, “With the way the economy is, feeding has become a daily struggle.
“This box will go a long way for my children and myself. I appreciate 22Bet and the Lagos Food Bank for remembering Ebute-Metta. You have lifted a big burden off many families today.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
EEdited by Olawunmi Ashafa
