Ambassador Saheed Yusuf is the founder of the Dr. Saheed Yusuf Foundation, an organization dedicated to uplifting communities through various charitable initiatives.

In this interview, he spoke of how he focuses on addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly during significant periods like Ramadan.

As well as inspires others to engage in acts of kindness and community service. Excerpt:

What inspired you to initiate the distribution of rice bags during Ramadan?
The distribution of rice bags during Ramadan was inspired by the significant hardships many families face, particularly with rising living costs. Witnessing these struggles motivated me to take action. The initiative aims to provide essential food while fostering community and compassion during this holy month. By sharing sustenance, we hope to bring comfort and encourage a spirit of giving in our community.

Can you share your connection to the Ramadan period and why it’s significant to you?
Ramadan holds a deep significance for me as a month of spiritual renewal and connection with Allah. It is a time dedicated to prayer, reflection, and seeking blessings. During this holy month, I focus on strengthening my relationship with Allah through increased worship and sincere supplication.
The act of fasting serves as a reminder of gratitude and empathy for those less fortunate, reinforcing the importance of compassion and community. Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food; it’s an opportunity to purify the soul, seek forgiveness, and embrace a more profound spiritual journey. This sacred period inspires me to be more mindful, charitable, and connected to my faith and community.

How did you organize the distribution of the 100 bags of rice?
To distribute 100 bags of rice, we allocated two bags for each street in a rural area, providing 2 Derica of rice to each family. The process took four days and involved coordinating with local community leaders to identify families in need.
Our team worked diligently to package and distribute the rice, aiming to foster a sense of community and support during Ramadan. This initiative not only provided essential food but also strengthened our connections with those we served.

What criteria did you use to select the recipients of the rice?
We focused on rural areas between Lagos and Ogun State, targeting families facing significant hardships. Our criteria included the level of economic need, family size, and the presence of elderly or vulnerable individuals. We collaborated with local community leaders to ensure we identified those who would benefit most from our assistance.

How do you believe this initiative impacts the community during Ramadan?
This initiative has had a profound impact on the community during Ramadan. The appreciation and prayers we received from recipients were truly heartwarming. Many expressed relief, especially the elderly, who often struggle the most.

While it would have been wonderful to capture these moments on video, the gratitude and sense of community we witnessed were invaluable. Our efforts not only provided essential food but also fostered hope and connection during this sacred month.

Do you plan to continue this initiative in the future? If so, how do you envision it evolving?
Yes, I definitely plan to continue this initiative in the future. I envision collaborating with other foundations to expand our reach and impact, allowing us to assist even more families in need during Ramadan.

Are there any other charitable projects you’re involved in or planning?
In addition to this initiative, we provide monthly food and financial support to widows. Personally, I also help individuals who approach me for assistance, aiming to make a difference in their lives whenever possible.





https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/how-we-selected-recipients-for-our-ramadan-outreach-amb-saheed-yusuf/