In the true spirit of Ramadan anchored on faith, compassion and service to humanity, prominent community advocate, the immediate past chairperson of Somolu local government, Hon. Mariam Omotanwa Salau, has underscored the importance of purposeful leadership and economic inclusion following her participation in a major empowerment programme in Kano State.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Director General of the National Productivity Centre, Dr Baffa Adigun, was described as a practical demonstration of the Renewed Hope agenda in action, one that prioritises grassroots support, economic empowerment and sustainable opportunities for citizens.
Speaking during the engagement in Kano, Salau noted that Ramadan provides a unique opportunity for leaders to reflect on their responsibilities toward the people, especially the vulnerable.
According to her, “Ramadan is not only a season of spiritual rejuvenation but also a period that calls for intentional acts of service and compassion. What we witnessed in Kano is leadership with purpose — leadership that listens, supports and uplifts.”
The empowerment programme targeted individuals and small-scale entrepreneurs at the grassroots level, providing resources and support aimed at boosting productivity and improving livelihoods.
Mariam Salau commended Dr Adigun for championing initiatives that align with the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive growth and economic participation.
She emphasised that meaningful empowerment goes beyond symbolic gestures, stressing that practical support for small businesses and community members remains critical to reducing poverty and strengthening local economies.
“This initiative reflects a people-centred approach to governance. When leadership focuses on productivity and inclusion, communities thrive,” she added.
As part of the engagement, the delegation paid a respectful courtesy visit to the revered Emir of Kano at his palace, reinforcing values of unity, collaboration and sustained development.
The visit, according to Mariam Salau, was symbolic of the importance of traditional institutions in fostering peace, stability and social cohesion.
She described the Emirate Council as a vital partner in community development, noting that strengthening collaboration between governmental institutions and traditional leadership structures remains essential for sustainable progress.
Observers at the event described the programme as a reflection of shared commitment to strengthening institutions and advancing governance that places people at the heart of policy implementation.
Salau reiterated that the Renewed Hope vision must continue to translate into tangible outcomes across communities nationwide.
“Our collective responsibility is to ensure that governance is not distant from the people. empowerment, unity and purposeful leadership must remain the guiding principles,” she stated.
The Kano engagement stands as yet another example of collaborative efforts aimed at fostering economic resilience, institutional strengthening and community development, ideals that resonate deeply with the spirit of Ramadan.
