Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Tuesday, launched the second phase of a significant empowerment programme initiated by the senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan.
The program aims to support 3,092 constituents across the eight local government areas within the senatorial district.
The empowerment initiative includes the distribution of various items to 2,592 beneficiaries, designed to boost livelihoods and economic activity.
These items include Hijet mini trucks, tricycles (Keke Napep), deep freezers, sewing and grinding machines, solar-powered and mechanical water pumps, fertiliser, rice harvesters, and other essential agricultural equipment.
Additionally, 500 individuals will receive direct cash support of N100,000 each.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at Government House, Governor Zulum commended Senator Lawan’s dedication to his constituents and his contributions to the overall development of Borno State.
“This is not the first time Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan is distributing empowerment items to his constituents. His dedication to the development of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno State is evident, and he has performed exceptionally well,” Governor Zulum stated.
Governor Zulum also highlighted Senator Lawan’s legislative achievements, noting that within his first two years in office, the senator has sponsored key bills, including those for the establishment of the Federal University of Entrepreneurship and Agriculture in Bama and the Federal Medical Centre in Borno State.
“I want to commend him not only for his grassroots interventions but also for his outstanding performance in the Senate. These contributions are unprecedented in the history of our state,” Governor Zulum added.
He urged the senator to maintain his efforts and assured him of the continued support of the state government and the people of Borno State.
Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, in his address, expressed his gratitude for Governor Zulum’s leadership and announced an additional cash support of N20,000 for each beneficiary of the empowerment items.
He also disclosed the donation of 450 school desks to public schools within the senatorial district.
“I sincerely appreciate the leadership of Governor Zulum in the state. This marks the second phase of my empowerment initiative, and I encourage all beneficiaries to make productive use of these items. I assure you this initiative will be sustained,” Senator Lawan affirmed.
The event was attended by prominent APC leaders, including the Deputy National Chairman (North), Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori; the Member representing the Maiduguri Metropolitan Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdulkadir Rahis; and the State APC Chairman, Hon. Bello Ayuba.
These leaders lauded Senator Lawan’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy and emphasised that the empowerment initiative would significantly complement Governor Zulum’s ongoing post-conflict recovery and reconstruction efforts across the state.
The ceremony was also graced by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur; members of the State House of Assembly; the Secretary to the State Government; Head of Service; Acting Chief of Staff; Commissioners; Local Government Chairmen; Special Advisers; APC stalwarts; and other key stakeholders.