By Abubakar Suleman
In a remarkable display of grassroots engagement and commitment to youth and women development, the Senior Special Assistant to the Kogi State Governor on Youth Mobilisation Lokoja-Kogi federal constituency and Consultant on Forestry, Hon. Abdulraham Hussain aka ‘Gentle’ has disbursed millions of naira in empowerment funds to jover 1500 youths and women in Lokoja local Government Area.
The initiative by Hon. Gentle which he started four years ago, took place at his grassroots base in kabawa, Lokoja local government area, brought together vibrant youths and women under the aegis of Gentle For Gov. Ododo’s 4+4, who have consistently championed the developmental strides of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo across the state.
No fewer than 1500 beneficiaries, representing the 10 wards of Lokoja local government area, received ₦10,000 each, with textile materials (wrappers).
Hon. Abdulraham Gentle while addressing the gathering, extolled the leadership qualities of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, describing him as a visionary who remains committed to building a new Kogi State anchored on youth and women empowerment, growth and development of the state.
“I remain eternally grateful to His Excellency, Ahmed Ododo, for the trust, mentorship, and opportunities he has afforded me. I am very grateful to him”.
He further commended the national leader, former Governor of Kogi state, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello for his outstanding mentorship and support to him, saying he will ever be loyal to him.
“To our beneficiaries, your commitment, consistency, and faith in the progress of this administration will not go unrewarded. I implore you to remain ambassadors of unity, peace, and productivity in your respective wards,” he added.
The commissioner of solid minerals and natural resources, Engr. Bashir Abubakar Gegu commended the initiator of the empowerment scheme, Hon. Gentle, calling on other politicians to emulates his kind gesture to the people at the grassroots.
In a collective voice of gratitude, one of the beneficiaries, Mallam Musa Yakubu hailed the empowerment gestures by Hon. Gentle. He pledged their continued loyalty and support for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo whom he described as a beacon of hope in the political landscape.
According to him, “At a time when most politicians neglect their foot soldiers, this initiative shows that Governor Ododo through Hon. Gentle, values grassroots development and inclusive governance.”
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the Honourable Commissioner for Water Resources, MD Farouk, APC party Chairman, Lokoja LG, Alhaji Maikudi Bature and host of others.
