Yahaya Seriki Foundation Launches N250 Million Empowerment Program In Kwara

Ilorin, Kwara State– The Yahaya Seriki Foundation has distributed N250 million in cash to 1,800 people in Kwara, aiming to boost their businesses as part of an economic relief initiative following the removal of the fuel subsidy.

The event occurred at the Banquet Hall on Saturday, November 18, 2023,  in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State.

The foundation, recognized for its dedication to socio-economic initiatives, seeks to make a positive impact on the lives of state residents through initiatives such as skill development, education, and financial support.

Ambassador Yahaya Seriki, an APC stalwart and Chairman of KURSI Investment Limited, a Nigerian mining, mineral processing, and trading company, recounted in his speech how he was born into the mining industry and assumed control from his father several years ago in Jos, Plateau State.

In his words, “I was born into mining and took over from my father. We weren’t born with a silver spoon, but through determination and perseverance, I witnessed a breakthrough. I never imagined standing here today to give back to society.”

“I encourage Nigerian youths, especially the Kwara Youths, to stay consistent in their endeavors and to believe that they can achieve remarkable feats through legitimate means of doing business.”

He pointed out that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has set a commendable precedent by including young people, as well as women, in his cabinet—a historic development for Kwara State.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, addressing the beneficiaries during the event, urged them to utilize the funds judiciously.

He expressed gratitude for Yahaya Seriki’s philanthropic gesture in giving back to society and highlighted that the initiative would play a role in reducing poverty and boosting businesses in the state.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Oyelere Femi, explained that he registered his name through an internet link and received a call, informing him that he was among the fortunate people picked by the foundation.

Mr. Femi expressed gratitude to the Yahaya Seriki Foundation for the unexpected opportunity, of receiving N500,000, which he never anticipated.

Halimat Sheriki received N500,000 from the empowerment program organized by the Yahaya Seriki Foundation.

She stated that the fund came at the right time, saying, “I’m going to Feolu straight to stock my shop with medicines.”

The empowerment was distributed in three phases: a cheque of N50 million was presented to the Eji Dongari community where Kursi company mines, N500,000 cheques were presented to the second batch, and N50,000 was transferred to the third batch.

The event was attended by royal fathers and dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Yakub Danladi, Member of the Federal House of Assembly, Muktar Tolani Shagaya, former Minister of Sport, Bolaji Abdullah, Sherif Shagaya, Khadijatu Ba, and others.