The need to lend a helping hand to the less privileged has again been brought to the fore, given the harsh economic realities many Nigerians are currently passing through.
This, is coming as an Abuja based Non-governmental organisation, Helpline Foundation for the Needy, has urged Nigerians to engage in acts of charity to help alleviate poverty among the populace.
The group said the call has become necessary in view of the impact of the removal of petroleum subsidy, stressing that the policy is biting hard on the economy and the populace.
President of the Foundation, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, made the appeal in a message to commemorate this year’s International Day of Charity.
She, however, commended the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for the recent palliatives distributed across the states of the country, while appealing to state governors to ensure that the palliative items get to the targeted audience.
“Such efforts has helped in alleviating hardship, not just among the poorest in the communities but also the jobless, the youths and other groups”, she said.
While calling on governments, corporate bodies, NGOs and individuals to do more in assisting the needy, Dr. Ahmadu argued that giving was a decision, noting that one must not wait until he or she has enough before lending a hand to the less-privileged in the society.
According to her, “such acts of charity will help attain the United Nations (UN) Agenda on Sustainable Development for the eradication of poverty 2030.
“In whatever condition, at whatever level you are, someone is wishing he or she was like you. And the little you can offer, don’t hold back, and when you give, do it as unto the Lord, without expecting anything in return; and I am sure God will replenish you in hundred folds”.
Dr. Ahmadu also stressed that the value of giving was what prompted the establishment of Helpline Foundation for the Needy, aimed at bringing about empowerment programmes such as skill acquisition, cash transfer, and starter-packs to help the needy improve their livelihood and reduce poverty.
She also commended various non-governmental organisations for their philanthropic activities towards the less privileged and urged them not to relent in the good work.
While appealing for donations from well meaning Nigerians to be able to distribute to identified less privileged persons in the FCT and its environs, Dr. Ahmadu said gifts of all kinds are acceptable by the Foundation to further increase number of items to be distributed.
Dr. Ahmadu maintained that increased involvement of well-meaning Nigerians in philanthropism was necessary because government alone cannot eradicate poverty in the country.
Recall that the International Day of Charity was established by the United Nations with the objective of sensitizing and mobilizing people, NGOs and stakeholders around the world to help others through volunteerism and philanthropism.
The Day was chosen to draw attention and efforts to humanitarian crises and human suffering within and among nations, as well as in recognition of efforts of charitable organizations and individuals, including the Mother Teresa.