By Adesakin Adefemi
The Ogun State government on Tuesday handed out food palliatives to Christian congregations across the state, a yuletide initiative aimed at cushioning the economic strain on residents amid soaring inflation and post‑COVID hardship.
In a statement, Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information and Strategy, said the programme is “bringing festive cheer to residents” and is part of a broader effort to support the less‑privileged and uplift worshippers of different denominations.
At the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, People’s Warden Titus Ogunkola praised the move, noting, “Governor Dapo Abiodun’s gesture demonstrates the government’s concern for the wellbeing of the people.” Deacon Afolabi Kayode of the Celestial Church, Ijaye, described the distribution as “reassuring in view of current economic realities.”
Rev. Julius Adebayo, Assistant Priest at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Oru‑Ijebu, added that the food items would ensure no member of his congregation went without a Christmas meal. Chief (Mrs.) Adetoun Oduwole, Iya Ijo of the church, highlighted ongoing development projects — road construction and health‑centre renovations — saying, “Governor Abiodun is not only giving us food; he has brought development to our community.”
Similar gratitude came from the Independent Gospel Church of Christ Headquarters, Aladura, Ago‑Iwoye, where Special
Apostle Oyesoji Idowu Soyewo called the gift a “pleasant surprise.” In Iperu, Venerable Peter Akinpelu and Rev. Canon Roland Bello of local Anglican churches commended the government for spreading joy.
Chief Jide Sosan, the Aro of Iperu, said the intervention had “alleviated the worries of residents who were unsure how to celebrate Christmas.” Pastor David Odugbemi of Celestial Church of Christ, Sango‑Ota, joined Mr Oluwaseun Okunlowo and Mrs Mariam Adeyemi in applauding the governor’s initiative.
Beneficiaries and community leaders across Ogun State described the relief as timely and compassionate. Many called for the developmental momentum to continue beyond the festive season.
The distribution highlights a growing trend of state‑led social safety nets in Nigeria’s most populous regions, offering a model that other governors may consider as they navigate post‑COVID economic recovery and inflationary pressures.
