As part of efforts to spread joy and ease the burden on residents during the Christmas season, the Ogun State Government has distributed food palliatives to Christians in churches across the state.
The initiative, aimed at supporting the less privileged and uplifting worshippers, was carried out across different denominations and communities. Beneficiaries described the gesture as timely and compassionate, particularly amid prevailing economic challenges.
According to a Tuesday statement released by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information and Strategy, the programme was intended to bring festive cheer to residents.
At the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, the People’s Warden, Titus Ogunkola, said the intervention aligned with the spirit of Christmas, a season of love, charity, and care.
“Governor Dapo Abiodun’s gesture demonstrates the government’s concern for the wellbeing of the people,” he said.
Similarly, Deacon Afolabi Kayode of the Celestial Church, Ijaye, Abeokuta, described the distribution as reassuring in view of current economic realities.
At St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Oru-Ijebu, Assistant Priest Rev. Julius Adebayo expressed gratitude on behalf of the Vicar, noting the food items would ensure that no member of the congregation would be left without something to celebrate Christmas.
“Some people among us might not have had anything to eat this Christmas, but with this gift from the governor, coupled with the little support from the church, all our members will have something to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ,” he said.
Other beneficiaries, including church members and community leaders, praised the governor for remembering residents during a difficult period. Chief (Mrs.) Adetoun Oduwole, Iya Ijo of the church, highlighted the government’s developmental projects, including road construction and renovation of health and educational facilities.
“I am particularly grateful to the governor for this gesture. He did the same last year and has repeated it again this year. Governor Abiodun is not only giving us food; he has brought development to our community,” she said.
At the Independent Gospel Church of Christ Headquarters, Aladura, Ago-Iwoye, Special Apostle Oyesoji Idowu Soyewo described the gift as a pleasant surprise. In Iperu, Venerable Peter Akinpelu and Rev. Canon Roland Bello of local Anglican churches commended the government for bringing joy to residents.
The Aro of Iperu, Chief Jide Sosan, said the intervention had alleviated the worries of residents who were unsure how to celebrate Christmas.
Pastor David Odugbemi, Shepherd-in-Charge of Celestial Church of Christ, Sango-Ota, and other church members, including Mr. Oluwaseun Okunlowo and Mrs. Mariam Adeyemi, applauded Governor Abiodun for the initiative and called for sustained developmental efforts.
