Barrister Habibu Umar, a member of the Bauchi State House of Assembly representing Kirfi constituency, has launched an empowerment initiative valued at N52 million aimed at improving livelihoods and fostering economic self-reliance among his constituents.
The programme, unveiled on Thursday, saw beneficiaries receive a range of items, including vehicles, 32 motorcycles, grinding machines, sewing machines, wood sawing machines, point-of-sale devices, mobile phones, a Hajj pilgrim seat, and cash grants of N100,000 to selected individuals. The distribution also included a modern wheelchair for the disabled, reflecting inclusivity in the initiative.
Umar said the programme was designed to deliver tangible dividends of democracy to residents of Kirfi Local Government Area. He emphasised that the selection and distribution of items were carried out fairly, with representation across all wards and zones of the constituency.
While congratulating the beneficiaries, the lawmaker urged them to use the items wisely to improve their living standards and contribute to the development of the local government. He also encouraged residents who did not benefit in the current phase to remain patient, assuring them that the programme would continue and expand in future phases.
The District Head of Kirfi, Wamban Bauchi, Muhammad Ladan, praised Umar for his “people-oriented leadership,” noting that the initiative demonstrates the lawmaker’s commitment to the welfare of his constituents. Ladan also urged residents to support their representatives and commended the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, for his continued backing of local development efforts.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Umar Waziri from the Bara zone described the empowerment programme as unprecedented. He pledged to make effective use of the car he received to improve his livelihood and called on other leaders to emulate the initiative.
The empowerment rollout included four cars, 32 motorcycles, 15 sewing machines, 15 grinding machines, POS tools with cash grants to 20 youths, and a wheelchair, providing support to a broad cross-section of the constituency.
