Startrend International Magazine For Your Latest News And Entertainment Gists
… Olu of Itori Says, Salisu is the Best Senator in Ogun’s History
ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, has explained why he rejects the idea of giving out material items such as sewing machines, motorcycles, and freezers as a means of empowerment.
Speaking during Day 2 of a capacity-building and empowerment workshop for Baales and community leaders in Ogun Central, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, the senator said that material gifts are short-lived and often fail to bring lasting change to the lives of beneficiaries.
According to Senator Salisu, education remains the most impactful and sustainable form of empowerment.
He highlighted his focus on scholarships and educational support as part of his long-term development strategy for Ogun Central.
“I don’t believe in giving material things as empowerment because it doesn’t last,” he said. “They can be sold or become unusable, but investing in education lasts a lifetime.”
Senator Salisu emphasized the urgent need for school curriculum reforms to include skills relevant to the digital age, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital literacy.
However, he warned that such reforms would be meaningless without proper investment in teacher training.
“The curriculum must evolve to meet global realities, but we also need to equip our teachers to deliver it,” he added. “Many of them are not keeping pace with the changes.”
The lawmaker also expressed concern about the growing number of out-of-school children in Ogun State, urging traditional rulers to partner with him in tackling the problem.
“The fight against educational decline must not be left to the government alone. Families, communities, and traditional leaders must join hands”, he said.
He challenged traditional rulers to go beyond ceremonial roles and become active promoters of education in their communities.
In his remarks, the Olu of Itori, Oba Akamo, praised Senator Salisu for his commitment to true empowerment, calling him the best senator in the history of Ogun State.
“No senator has ever organized a program like this for us. You have proven yourself to be truly exceptional,” Oba Akamo stated.
To mark Children’s Day, Senator Salisu also distributed school bags and educational materials to students, further reinforcing his belief in education as the cornerstone of development.
