In order to improve the quality of life for residents in Kwara and combat poverty, the Yahaya Seriki Foundation, a non-governmental organization, has allocated N250 million to 1,800 individuals, including artisans, students, market traders, and petty traders across the state. The foundation views this initiative as a crucial step in fulfilling its mission to address poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, environmental degradation, and gender discrimination, aligning with the UN Millennium Development Goals.
Yahaya Seriki, the founder and a prominent figure in the minerals sector, expressed gratitude to the people of Kwara for their longstanding support. Recognizing the capital-intensive nature of the minerals sector, particularly in his company, KURSI Investment Ltd, a leading mining entity in Nigeria, Seriki highlighted the company’s 15-year commitment to exploration activities.
Acknowledging the Kwara government’s role in creating a conducive environment for mining with adequate security, Seriki emphasized that approximately 70% of his workforce comprises Kwara indigenes, emphasizing the non-political nature of the decision. The foundation distributed cheques totaling N250 million across various categories, benefitting at least 1,800 indigenes.
Recipients in the N500,000 category included Ameenat Alao Saadu, Ibraheem Rabiat Atonitenu, Adeoye Bola Elizabeth, Khadijat Sheriki, and others. Fatai Olajumoke Soma, Shaibu Balikisu, Oyewole Wale Femi, and others received support in the N250,000 category, while numerous beneficiaries emerged in the N50,000 category.
Several success stories emerged, such as geologist Umar Habeeb Adeshina receiving a scholarship for his doctoral studies abroad, laboratory scientist Salihu Aishat Tobani securing employment at KURSI Investment Ltd, and human resources expert Dr. Hammed Ayuba benefiting from a PhD scholarship. Additionally, the traditional ruler of the Ejidongari districts, Alhaji Saheed Sauda Adifa, received a N50 million cheque for distribution to his subjects.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq expressed appreciation to the foundation for its collaboration with the state government in the joint effort to alleviate poverty among indigenes.
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