IESU Unilorin Holds Career Talk, Youth Empowerment Summit in Honour of Saraki’s Humanitarian Contributions
The Ilorin Emirate Students’ Union (IESU), University of Ilorin Chapter, has organised an Educational Career Talk and Youth Empowerment Summit aimed at inspiring students, promoting academic excellence, and equipping young people with the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable entrepreneurship.
This year’s summit was organised in recognition of the former President of the Senate and former Governor of Kwara State, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, in appreciation of his contributions to youth and student empowerment across various institutions.
The organisers expressed confidence in the former Senate President, describing him not only as a mentor but also as a father figure who has positively influenced many lives and continues to distinguish himself through his commitment to human development.
Speaking on the topic, “Building Academic Excellence and Maximising Your University Experience,” Mr Nasir Abdulqadir commended the organisers for choosing Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki as their role model.
Mr Abdulqadir highlighted the leadership qualities and achievements of the former Senate President, describing him as a man who strives for success and does not rest on his laurels. He consequently charged the students to think beyond obtaining university certificates and develop skills that would enable them to succeed in life.
The Dean of Student Affairs of the University of Ilorin also praised the former President of the 8th Senate for his continuous support for less-privileged students through scholarship opportunities.
Also addressing the students, Professor Alex Akanmu explained how Ilorin shaped his success story, noting that the city played a significant role in his academic journey, as he obtained his first and second degrees there. He stressed that without the foundation he received in Ilorin, his subsequent academic achievements would not have been possible.
The Director of the Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation, Alhaji Shola Isiaka Gold, appreciated the university management and lecturers who attended the programme, expressing the hope that their generosity and support would be rewarded by Almighty Allah.
He also expressed gratitude to his leader, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, whom he said he had served for several years and would continue to serve, for the opportunities and support that had contributed to making him who he is today.
In his capacity as Director of the Foundation, Alhaji Gold presented 10 laptops, five industrial sewing machines, 20 make-up kits, and 10 barbing tools to students of the Ilorin Emirate on behalf of the Foundation.
He urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the items, emphasising that obtaining a university degree should not prevent graduates from exploring entrepreneurship and other productive ventures.
The beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the former Senate President for his support and prayed that Almighty Allah would continue to guide, strengthen and bless him.