Amb. AbdulFatai Yahaya Seriki Gambari, the Chairman of Kursi Investments Limited, a leading mining company in Nigeria, has empowered several Kwarans with a total sum of N250 million.
The empowerment event, held at the state banquet hall in Ilorin on Saturday, witnessed the presence of top government officials, traditional leaders, and individuals from various walks of life.
Beneficiaries were categorized to receive amounts ranging from N50,000 to N1 million each.
Amb. Seriki, the founder of Yahaya Seriki Foundation, expressed his commitment to creating a society where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, feels empowered to meet daily needs and support their families.
Empowerment facilitated with Gov AbdulRazaq’s support
Seriki said that the grants aimed to support projects with significant potential for impact and success.
“We want to ensure that the grants are awarded to those with the greatest potential for impact and success. Our criteria consider the feasibility of the projects, their potential for job creation, and alignment with the overall economic development goals of Kwara State.
“This is the reason we have chosen to support those small businesses being run by youths, in the belief that with increased financial capacity, those businesses can grow more, increase their income and even proceed to enhance economic activities within our community.
Seriki felt excited with the multiplier effect which the scheme, especially in the area of SME support, would have or local businesses and economy.
He credited Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for initiating and supporting this empowerment, emphasizing the importance of giving back to society.
“Also, this empowerment was made possible with the support of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. He called me personally and asked me to do this. Give back to the society. So, today is all about him.”
Empowerment came at the right time: Kwara Gov
Governor AbdulRazaq, present at the event, acknowledged the impactful effort of Seriki in uplifting people from poverty.
He said, “Thank you, Ambassador. This empowerment is coming at a very crucial time. A lot of people have been feeling the hit of some policy changes by the Federal Government. This is a mega empowerment. This is impactful, we appreciate you. I know this is just the beginning of many to come.”
The grant is a vote of confidence in ability, would fuel my vision: Beneficiary
The event also featured the presentation of cheques to the beneficiaries.
In an emotional recount, one of the beneficiaries, Yunusa Salihu said, “Receiving this grant is a game-changer. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the belief that someone sees the potential in what I’m doing. This initiative is not merely handing out funds; it’s investing in dreams and igniting a spark for positive change.”
For Ibrahim, with gratitude in his voice, he stated, “The Cash Boost Initiative will open doors I never thought possible. It’s not just financial support; it’s a vote of confidence in my vision. This grant is not just about my success; it’s about contributing to the broader success of our community.”
Another beneficiary who simply identified herself as Aisha said, “This grant is more than a boost; it’s a lifeline. It’s empowering me to turn my dreams into reality and contribute meaningfully to our community. The selection committee’s belief in my project is fueling my determination to make a lasting impact. The money will go a long way in fueling my dream.”
Empowerment, truly inspiring: Reps member
For the honourable representing Ilorin West and Asa Federal Constituency at the green chamber of the National Assembly, Muktar Tolani Shagaya, he said, “It was truly inspiring to see so many people come together to support this important cause. The N250Million Yahaya Seriki Foundation Cash Boost and Empowerment Program is doing so much to help people in difficult economic times.
“The program is providing cash boosts and other forms of empowerment to support the local community. It was truly moving to see people’s lives being changed in such a positive way. I felt so grateful to be a part of this event and to witness such a wonderful show of generosity and compassion.”
The colourful event had a great turnout of dignitaries, including the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq; the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Engr. Yakubu Salihu Danladi; Kwara State APC Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi; Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi; Alhaji Sherif Shagaya; the state Commissioner for Police; several traditional rulers and religious leaders, amongst others.
