Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, has officially launched the National Community Food Bank Programme in Cross River State, aimed at addressing food insecurity and malnutrition among vulnerable populations. The initiative was inaugurated in Calabar on Friday, where the First Lady emphasized the need for nutritional support for children under six, pregnant women, and lactating mothers.

During the launch, three food banks were introduced simultaneously across the state. According to a statement from her Senior Special Adviser on Media, Busola Kukoyi, the programme has already enrolled 1,179 beneficiaries and distributed 2,089 food packages to those in need. Senator Tinubu urged state governments to adopt this programme to enhance its reach and effectiveness.

"The National Community Food Bank Programme is a deliberate and sustainable response to food insecurity and malnutrition among vulnerable households. It is designed to provide nutritious food to children under the age of six, pregnant women, and lactating mothers, giving them the support required for healthy growth and development," she stated.

This initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on improving food security, healthcare outcomes, and overall welfare for Nigerians. With this launch in Cross River, the programme has now reached five of the six geopolitical zones in the country, with plans to expand to the remaining zone.

In addition to the food bank initiative, the First Lady inaugurated a TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative ICT Experience Centre at the University of Cross River. This center is equipped with innovation and technology laboratories, as well as an engineering workshop, aimed at fostering ICT skills acquisition and innovation among the youth.

Furthermore, Senator Tinubu announced a N500 million relief package for 18 business owners affected by a recent fire disaster at the Calabar Mall. Each affected business owner will receive N25 million, while an additional N50 million is allocated for women's groups in the state to support their recovery efforts.

The First Lady also engaged with members of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council, highlighting the critical role traditional institutions play in disseminating government programmes and their impacts on local communities. HRM Ovai Solomon Edward, the Chairman of the Cross River Traditional Council and Paramount Ruler of Abi Local Government Area, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the initiatives and policies aimed at transforming the nation, acknowledging that such changes require time and patience from the citizens.