By Usman Aliyu
Dr Nicholas Felix (DNF) Foundation International on Monday distributed free fuel to motorists in Benin to ease the financial burden on transporters and reduce their daily operational costs.
The foundation’s chairman, Dr Nicholas Felix, who supervised the exercise, said it was part of his commitment to “give back to society” and “put smiles on people’s faces.”
According to him, the initiative, which began in the United States in 2014 and extended to Nigeria in 2018, primarily targets commercial transport operators, including motorcyclists, taxi drivers, and bus operators.
“We are here to give out free fuel to the people of Oredo Community in Benin City as part of our mission to bring renewed hope.
“I know fuel is one thing that everybody talks about now since the removal of the fuel subsidy by the Federal Government. So, we just decided to come and put a smile on people’s faces,” he said.
Felix said each beneficiary received at least four litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), adding that some received more, depending on availability.
“Some of them can benefit more than four litres, but everybody gets at least a minimum of four litres of fuel.
“This has nothing to do with politics or campaigns. It’s purely about humanity,” he said.
Felix noted that the foundation had, over the years, carried out several empowerment programmes across Nigeria, including free kerosene distribution in Ibadan in 2018, Benin in 2019 and 2024, Niger and Abuja, 2025.
He also said the foundation placed widows on monthly stipends through the Church of God Mission in Auchi, Edo, and supported the construction of a 20-year-old church building in Ogochi village also in Edo.
The chairman said the foundation hoped to reach hundreds of thousands of beneficiaries nationwide in the coming months through its humanitarian initiatives.
Some of the beneficiaries, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), described the gesture as timely and commendable.
A dispatch rider, Mr Clement Iwara, said he would have spent at least N4,000 to buy four litres of fuel.
“With this free offer, I can channel the money to another need. These are the kind of people we want in our society.
“If others emulate this gesture, the hardship caused by subsidy removal will be greatly reduced,” Iwara said.
Similarly, Mr Christopher Okeke, another rider, and Mr Fred Osemwengie, a taxi driver, praised the foundation for its compassion and urged other philanthropists to support low-income earners through similar initiatives.
“This kind of empowerment directly impacts daily life; it’s practical and meaningful,” said Mr Maurice Okojie, an artisan. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joe Idika
