Ikeja, Lagos State
In a heartwarming show of solidarity and compassion, Pukka Logistics and Support Services Ltd., in partnership with international philanthropists, has brought smiles and much-needed relief to persons with disabilities in Lagos. The humanitarian outreach, held at the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) office in Opebi, Ikeja, delivered food items and messages of hope to dozens of grateful beneficiaries.
The event is part of an ambitious nationwide initiative aimed at tackling hunger and food insecurity in Nigeria — a project that is already making significant impact in multiple communities.
A Bold Commitment to Reach All 774 LGAs
Representing Pukka Logistics at the event, Akingbelu-Banjo explained that the programme — which was launched in March 2024 — is designed to combat hunger and food poverty across all 774 local government areas of the country.
“This initiative is not a one-off donation. It is a structured national response to hunger, especially among vulnerable groups like persons with disabilities,” Akingbelu-Banjo stated.
“We are working in partnership with two remarkable international businessmen — Sudeep Ramnani and Jai Mahtani — who believe in the power of giving back and supporting resilient communities.”
According to her, thousands of Nigerians have already benefitted from the food outreach since its inception. Lagos is the latest stop in what is shaping up to be one of the most inclusive and far-reaching grassroots interventions in recent times.
“We are inspired by the strength and resilience of Nigerians,” she continued.
“Despite tough economic conditions, people remain hopeful. That spirit is what keeps us going. We are committed to making a positive impact — one community, one family, one person at a time.”
CCD: A Platform of Hope and Advocacy
The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), which played host to the event, has long been a frontline organization championing the rights, welfare, and dignity of persons with disabilities in Nigeria.
Ms. Florence Austin, who spoke on behalf of CCD, expressed profound gratitude to Pukka Logistics and their international partners for their thoughtful gesture.
“This is not just food; it’s a symbol of inclusion, of hope, of recognition,” she said passionately.
“To many persons with disabilities, especially in urban centres like Lagos, the economic situation has been especially brutal. This support is timely, thoughtful, and deeply appreciated.”
She also called on other corporate bodies, philanthropists, and development agencies to emulate the initiative, stressing that disability inclusion in humanitarian and poverty-alleviation programmes is not optional — it is essential.
A Ray of Hope Amid Economic Hardship
Nigeria’s current economic landscape has seen rising inflation, food scarcity, and a spike in the cost of living — challenges that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including persons with disabilities who often face limited access to employment, healthcare, and social services.
Many of the beneficiaries at the Ikeja outreach could barely hide their joy, expressing appreciation for the support at a time when survival has become increasingly difficult.
One recipient, Mrs. Rukayat Bello, a single mother living with a physical disability, shared her gratitude.
“I’ve not had this much food in my house in months. It may look small to some people, but to us, it is everything. God bless those behind this programme,” she said with tears in her eyes.
Inclusion as a Principle, Not a Privilege
The Pukka Logistics initiative stands out for its intentional focus on persons with disabilities, a group often left out of mainstream development programmes. By partnering with organisations like CCD, the initiative is proving that inclusive humanitarian support is not only possible — it is effective and necessary.
The programme also serves as a powerful reminder that when corporate bodies and global philanthropists align their efforts with grassroots organizations, real change happens.
Looking Ahead: A Challenge to Do More
As the food relief train moves to the next destination, the impact left behind in Ikeja is indelible. Beyond the nourishment, the outreach brought dignity, visibility, and hope to a community often pushed to the margins.
Will others follow suit?
Will more organisations adopt a disability-inclusive approach to corporate social responsibility?
Will policymakers respond by integrating disability into their poverty-alleviation strategies?
Only time will tell. But for now, one thing is clear: Pukka Logistics and its global partners have set a worthy example — and the nation is watching.
For more inspiring stories and in-depth coverage of disability rights and inclusion in Nigeria, follow The Qualitative Magazine — amplifying voices, changing narratives. https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VanfIB50wajpjGi3JJ1G
