• Likens initiative to govt’s safety net programme
By Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has commended the Turaki of Ilorin and APC Chieftain Mallam Saliu Mustapha for always complementing his administration’s efforts to support the poor.
The Governor spoke in Ilorin at the 10th edition of the Annual SME & Grassroots Empowerment Programme of the Saliu Mustapha Foundation during which the politician-cum-philanthropist gave out millions of naira worth of empowerment for different startups.
“This is quite commendable as it goes a long way in providing safety net for citizens of the state. I really congratulate the Turaki of Ilorin for this initiative and I wish you all the best,” he said.
AbdulRazaq, who said the scheme aligns with his administration’s social investment programme such as Owo Isowo and Owo Arugbo, described the yearly programme as impactful and beneficial to small scale businesses, urging other well-heeled Kwarans to emulate the good gesture.
The event was well-attended by people from various social classes, including government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, APC leaders, and market leaders.
Several individuals and groups received cheques and cash from the Foundation to support their businesses.
Turaki Saliu Mustapha, for his part, said his foundation is supporting youths and women to grow their small scale businesses, improve their lives, and promote the economy of the state.
“While our Foundation often advances financial assistance especially to widows and the less privileged, we realise that in the long run what is required is to empower people in ways that can take control of their lives and even affect the lives of those around them positively,” he said.
He thanked AbdulRazaq, the Emir of Ilorin Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and other royal fathers in the state for their support, which he noted, has made the work of the Foundation simple.
Sheikh Umar Suleiman (Soibul Bayan) described the gesture of Saliu Mustapha as one that conforms to the rules and teachings of Islam, saying God reserves abundant rewards for those who assist the poor.
He likened what the Foundation does to the empowerment programmes of the AbdulRazaq’s administration, which the cleric said are fast transforming lives of many beneficiaries.
He prayed Allah to continue to guide both the Governor and Mallam Mustapha, as well as others who support the poor masses.
End
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