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Tag: Saliu Mustapha

  • Senator Mustapha named grand patron of Ilorin Emirate students union

    Senator Mustapha named grand patron of Ilorin Emirate students union

    The Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, Saliu Mustapha, has been appointed as the Grand Patron of the Ilorin Emirate Students Union (IESU), National Headquarters.

    The appointment was formally announced by the President of the Union, Sheikh Zulukainaini AbdulRahman Opolo at the University of Ilorin, Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

    With the conferment, Mr Mustapha assumes the second-highest advisory position in the Union’s leadership structure, next only to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, who holds the title of Permanent Life Patron.

    Speaking at the event, held at the University of Ilorin, Mr Opolo described the Senator as a longstanding ally of the Union and a dependable figure in its continued growth and development.

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    “Senator Mustapha has consistently stood by us, regardless of who leads the Union. He has never turned his back on our community,” Mr Opolo said. “His recent donation of a brand-new utility bus to ease our transportation challenges is just one of many gestures we have received from him over the years.”

    The Union President, accompanied by six of his predecessors, presented the formal letter of credence to the Senator. The letter, endorsed by the Emir of Ilorin, affirms the Union’s recognition of Mr Mustapha’s contributions to student welfare, education, and youth empowerment across the Ilorin Emirate.

    Mr Mustapha, who holds the traditional title of Turaki of Ilorin, is widely acknowledged for his community-based interventions and youth-focused programmes throughout Kwara State. His elevation to the position of Grand Patron, observers say, is both a recognition of his consistent support and an affirmation of his influence among young people in the Emirate.

    The IESU, as the umbrella body of all Ilorin Emirate students across tertiary institutions in Nigeria, plays a vital role in youth mobilisation, advocacy, and community development.

    Senator Mustapha’s new role is expected to further strengthen the Union’s institutional capacity and deepen its engagement with political and traditional stakeholders in the state.

  • Kwara senators mourn ex-governor

    Kwara senators mourn ex-governor

    Senators representing Kwara Central and Kwara South, Saliu Mustapha and Oyelola Ashiru, have described the death of the former governor of the state, Senator Cornelius Adebayo, as a great loss to the state and Nigeria.

    Mustapha, in a statement by his media aide, Nasif Sholagberu, acknowledged the late statesman’s immense contributions to governance and national development during his time as governor and minister of communications.

    Mustapha commiserated with the Adebayo family over the loss.

    He also extended his condolences to the people of Isin LGA and the entire Kwara South Senatorial District.

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    Ashiru, an architect, said: “I join the good people of Kwara State, and indeed all Nigerians, in mourning the passing on of a revered lecturer, and a courageous patriot.

    “Chief Adebayo was more than a public servant—he was a symbol of principled politics, fearless advocacy, and genuine patriotism.

    “Kwara knew politics through him and his generation. He taught us that Kwara State belongs to all of us, irrespective of background or tongue.

    “He taught us that patriotism is not a slogan, but a way of life lived with courage, humility, and conviction.”

  • Kwara lawmaker empowers constituents

    Kwara lawmaker empowers constituents

    In a bold move to empower his constituents and contribute to Nigeria’s food security agenda, Senator Saliu Mustapha has launched an innovative empowerment programme in Kwara Central Senatorial District.

    The programme, tagged: “Alubarika 1.0 Agricultural and Human Capital Development Empowerment Programme,” was held at the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority’s premises in Ilorin, Kwara State. Mustapha distributed empowerment tools and materials to over 2,500 constituents in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.

    According to Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin and Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Senator Abubakar Kyari, Senator Mustapha’s initiative was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agriculture and food security agenda. This aligns with the country’s overall development and food security goals, they said.

    Moved by Mustapha’s kind-heartedness, particularly the share number of people being assisted economically, Barau announced a donation of 200 sewing machines so that more people can benefit. The senator representing Lagos East, Tokunbo Abiru, also supported the programme with N10 million for distribution to 100 market women in the sum of N100,000 each.

    Barau said: “We have all decided to come here and share this moment with our brother, Senator Saliu Mustapha, because of this great empowerment programme for constituents, in agriculture and human capital development.

    “These are key areas that are very important to our national development; we don’t need to waste much time talking about the importance of agriculture in every society. Agriculture is sine qua non to the survival of every society because without food, there is no life. This is a cardinal programme of this administration and the renewed Hope of Mr President to provide food for all.

    “No wonder the constituents decided to pick Saliu Mustapha, an outstanding person and party leader. He is a very friendly, industrious and peaceful person who connects with everybody in the Senate. You’ve done the right thing by electing him. All the time he’s going to speak on the floor of the Senate, it’s about what comes to the people of Kwara State.”

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    The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Kyari, lauded Mustapha for implementing projects that promote food security in the country in line with the objectives of the present administration.

    Kyari said: “You are doing well on the floor of the Senate. Tinubu’s food security initiative is working. Food isn’t only becoming affordable but also available. Tinubu is working to promote agriculture. I am happy that the chairman of the Senate Committee overseeing me is also promoting Tinubu’s agenda. I pray to Almighty Allah to protect and guide us.”

    It is the strategic focus on agriculture and human capital development that sets Senator Mustapha’s empowerment programme apart. By providing essential tools and resources, he has enabled his constituents to improve their livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to the local economy. The programme’s focus on sustainability and long-term impact was also evident in the distribution of materials such as tractors, irrigation machines, and solar panels.

    Unlike other empowerment programmes that often prioritise short-term gains and political mileage, Senator Mustapha’s initiative was designed to address the specific needs of his constituents. By providing prior entrepreneurial training and certification, he equips the beneficiaries with the necessary skills and knowledge to utilize the empowerment materials effectively.

    The event, was attended by dignitaries including Senator Barau and Senator Kyari, the National Secretary of the APC, Senator Basiru Ajibola, Deputy Leader of the Senate, Senator Oyelola Ashiru, Chairman Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru and Senator Iyal Abbas demonstrated the importance of collaboration and support for empowerment initiatives. Senator Jibrin donated 200 sewing machines to the constituents, while Senator Kyari lauded Senator Mustapha for promoting President Tinubu’s food security initiative.

    The beneficiaries include market women, farmers, artisans, and trade associations. They were carefully selected and trained to ensure they made the most of the empowerment materials.

    Items shared among the beneficiaries included 1,000 bags of fertilisers, tractors (20), brand new Toyota Sienna vehicles (30) tricycles (55), truck tricycle (52), industrial rice milling equipment (30), transformers (25), garri processing machines (25), pumping machines for irrigation (400), industrial baking oven (50), fish smoking oven (50), live cows (100), grinding machines (500), freezers (400), generators (200), Butterfly Sewing machines (200), industrial sewing machines (55), rewire tools boxes (100), mechanic tools boxes (100), gas powered pressing irons (100), big bags of watermelon (100), big cartons apple (100), solar installation equipment (200) and Aso-Oke weaving equipment (60).

    Others are bags of coconut (100), bags of pineapple fruits (150), bags of oranges (200), bags of cabbage (100), bunches of banana (200), bags of cucumber (200), baskets of pepper (200), baskets of tomatoes (200), bags of onions (200), yam tubers (2000), bags of beans (200), bags of garri (200), bags of maize (200), bags of brocoli (50), basket of okro (50), basket of sweet potatoes (100), cartons of fish (400) and umbrellas (1000).

    Senator Mustapha’s commitment to his constituents is evident in his approach to empowerment. By prioritizing sustainability, strategic focus, and long-term impact, he is demonstrating a new approach to empowerment, one that prioritizes the benefits to the constituents above political expediency.

    In his remarks, the lawmaker said the programme was meant to empower the beneficiaries to become self-reliant.

    Aside from the empowerment materials, he said the beneficiaries had been trained and certified to use the tools and carry out their trade as entrepreneurs.

    Mustapha said: “Today’s programme is just a symbolic one to flag off what we intend to do with most of the people we have trained. This time, we decided it is not only about giving out sewing machines or other items they will not value. We decided to put them through a series of programmes and trainings. We are missing out on one vital aspect.  Everywhere you go now, you’ll see solar streetlights.

    “We took time to train interested indigenes on how to maintain, repair and install solar panels. The most fascinating part was when I came during a training exercise and saw many female participants in a conservative community where women are not supposed to climb roofs and poles.

    “I saw them in their overalls, they are fully trained now on how to install, repair and maintain solar inverters. All of them are here too, and they will get their working tools. Most of the people you see here under the canopies are not just political spectators; these are carefully chosen beneficiaries who have gotten through training. We are not holding a political rally or jamboree here.”

    As the country grapples with economic growth, poverty reduction, and inequality, initiatives like Senator Mustapha’s empowerment programme are a beacon of hope. He is helping to contribute to the country’s overall development and food security by supporting agriculture, human capital development, and entrepreneurship. His innovative approach to empowerment is a shining example of effective leadership and commitment to constituent welfare.

  • Senator Saliu Mustapha to launch N500m Igbomina House

    Senator Saliu Mustapha to launch N500m Igbomina House

    Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, has been announced as the Chief Launcher at the upcoming 2024 Igbomina Day celebration. 

    The event, set for Saturday, November 9, 2024, in Iludun-Oro, Irepodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, aims to raise N500 million for the construction of a modern Igbomina Plaza in Ganmo and the upgrade of Igbomina Community Radio.

    This project is a significant endeavor for the Igbomina community, renowned for its cultural heritage and longstanding contributions to Kwara State. With these initiatives, the community seeks to bolster unity and drive forward local development.

    In a formal invitation signed by President Engr. G. Y. Jimoh and the Central Organisation Committee Chairman Barrister Teju Oguntoye, Senator Mustapha was lauded as a “key stakeholder” in efforts to unite and empower Igbomina communities across the state. 

    The association praised his dedication to community advancement, expressing confidence in his support for this landmark initiative.

    The President also noted that distinguished Igbomina individuals excelling in fields such as education, commerce, and politics will be honored with merit awards for their contributions.

    An annual tradition, Igbomina Day brings together the globally dispersed, predominantly Yoruba-speaking community, celebrating with vibrant cultural displays, networking, and a shared commitment to the growth of Igbomina land.

  • Kwara Senator launches N200m scholarship scheme for indigent students

    Kwara Senator launches N200m scholarship scheme for indigent students

    Senator Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) has unveiled his annual university scholarship scheme by committing over N200million to support 200 indigent students throughout their undergraduate studies.

    According to a statement by Mustapha’s media office in Abuja, the scholarship beneficiaries would be selected from the four local government areas of Kwara Central Senatorial District.

    The scheme is expected to significantly alleviate the financial burdens on families, enabling brilliant but indigent students to pursue higher education without undue stress.

    The chairperson of the Kwara Central Educational Ad-hoc Advisory Committee, Professor Binta Sulyman, outlined the scope of the initiative.

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    She disclosed that the selected students would attend any of five Kwara-based private institutions, including Al-Hikma University, Kwara State University (KWASU), Summit University, Offa; and Ahman Pategi University, Patigi, among others.

    The legislative aide to Senator Mustapha, Mallam Tunde Abdulrahman, explained that the scholarship initiative is in fulfillment of the senator’s electoral promises to the youth and people of Kwara Central.

    He further highlighted that the scheme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and complements the educational initiatives of Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, particularly in the development of educational infrastructure across the state.

    “For the smooth execution of this programme, a team of top educationists, academicians, and stakeholders, led by Professor Sulyman, has been constituted to establish clear guidelines for its success,” Abdulrahman said.

    He also encouraged the prospective beneficiaries to maximise the opportunity presented to them.

    A public affairs analyst, Comrade Abdulatif Ajetunmobi, lauded Senator Mustapha’s timely intervention, noting that the scholarship programme would greatly ease the socioeconomic challenges currently facing many parents.

  • I sponsored five financial bills in six months, says senator

    I sponsored five financial bills in six months, says senator

    The senator representing Kwara Central, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has said he has sponsored five bills within six months in office.

    This, according to him, is to strengthen the nation’s financial sector and advance the use of technology in agriculture, to enhance food productivity and security in the country.

    The bills included National Food Reserve Agency (Establishment) Bill, 2023, which seeks to develop the agricultural sector by ensuring national food security and income through marketing and storage services, Donkey Slaughter Regulation and Export Certificate Bill, 2023 and National Agricultural Land Development Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023.

    Others were Cassava Flour (Mandatory Inclusion into Flour Production) Bill, 2023, which seeks to provide a legal and regulatory framework for the mandatory inclusion of cassava flour into edible flour production in Nigeria and Electronics Transaction Bill 2023, which aims to offer legal and regulatory framework for conducting transactions, using electronic or related media.

    The Chief of Staff to the senator, Tunji Buhari, said this while featuring on a radio programme monitored in Ilorin.

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    The programme was designed to give account of stewardship to the constituents of the legislator within his six months in office.

    He said the senator, who is the chairman of the Senate Committee on Agricultural Production Services and Rural Development, was passionate about agriculture sector with its contribution of 23 per cent to the GDP of the country in the third quarter of 2023.

    The politician noted that the sector can become the backbone of the nation’s economy if it is adequately harnessed with the right technology.

    He also disclosed that over 2,000 solar power street lights were installed across the 52 wards of Kwara Central Senatorial District, while two solar powered motorised boreholes were provided at Kankatu, Ibagun Ward of Ilorin East and Jato Community in Ifesowapo of Ilorin South Local Government.

    “Over 2,000 solar power street lights have been distributed across the 52 wards of the senatorial district. There is no ward of the four local governments that don’t have the solar panels. The essence is to enhance security in the respective localities. Others were distributed to major assemblies to enhance social interactions.

    “Two 3-1 solar powered boreholes were distributed, especially in Ilorin East and South local governments,  while others are ongoing”, he added.

    As part of measures to cushion the hardship occasioned by the removal of subsidy from fuel, Buhari said Senator Mustapha rolled out palliatives to complement the Kwara State Government’s efforts to reduce the hardship among residents of the state with the provision of 10,000 bags of rice and 2,800 live chickens for Christian brethren, the less privileged in the society, party faithful and communities for them to have a joyous celebration during the festive period.

    “Having realised the tough times the people are facing as a result of subsidy removal from PMS, the distinguished senator decided to support the efforts of Governor AbdulRazaq-led administration.”

     by providing multimillion naira palliative support, which comprises thousands of bags of rice, chickens and other food items for the constituents.

    “Apart from these items, he also provided cash donation to some individuals and less privileged individuals to enable them have joyous festive period”, Buhari said.

    The senator’s aide, however, noted that Senator Mustapha had approved the procurement and distribution of 1,000 JAMB forms, 500 WAEC and NECO forms for orphans and indigents, preparatory to granting scholarships to best performing students among them.