Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Tuesday flagged off the second phase of a large-scale empowerment initiative by the Senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan. The programme aims to uplift 3,092 beneficiaries across the eight local government areas within the senatorial district.
Of the total number of beneficiaries, 2,592 individuals received various empowerment tools and equipment, including Hijet mini trucks, tricycles (Keke Napep), deep freezers, sewing machines, grinding machines, solar-powered and mechanical water pumps, fertilizers, rice harvesters, and other agricultural implements. Each of these beneficiaries also received an additional ₦20,000 in cash.
The remaining 500 beneficiaries were provided direct financial assistance, each receiving a grant of ₦100,000 to support small-scale entrepreneurial activities.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the Government House in Maiduguri, Governor Zulum commended Senator Lawan for his continuous efforts to improve the livelihoods of his constituents, highlighting the Senator's dedication to grassroots development and his contributions to the growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno State.
"This is not the first time Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan has demonstrated his commitment to empowering the people of Borno Central. His initiatives have made a meaningful impact, and his performance in the National Assembly has been exemplary," Governor Zulum stated.
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He also praised Senator Lawan's legislative achievements, noting his sponsorship of key bills, including those seeking to establish the Federal University of Entrepreneurship and Agriculture in Bama and the Federal Medical Centre in Borno State.
In his remarks, Senator Lawan reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots development, stating that the empowerment programme was part of his broader strategy to support constituents economically and socially.
"I am grateful for the support from Governor Zulum and the people of Borno. This marks the second phase of our empowerment initiative, and I encourage all beneficiaries to utilize these resources productively. We are determined to sustain and expand this programme," he said.
The Senator also announced the donation of 450 school desks to public schools across the senatorial district, aimed at improving educational infrastructure in the region.
The event drew notable APC leaders and stakeholders, including the Deputy National Chairman (North), Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori; Member representing Maiduguri Metropolitan Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdulkadir Rahis; and the Borno State APC Chairman, Hon. Bello Ayuba. They all lauded the Senator's efforts in delivering the dividends of democracy to his constituents.
Also present at the ceremony were the Deputy Governor, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur; members of the State House of Assembly; the Secretary to the State Government; the Head of Service; the Acting Chief of Staff; Commissioners; Local Government Chairmen; and other government officials.
According to party leaders, the initiative will significantly complement the state government's ongoing post-conflict recovery and reconstruction programmes across Borno State.
