By Abubakar Abdullahi, Gombe

In an effort to promote economic growth and alleviate poverty, the Hamma Saleh Memorial Foundation has extended financial supports to 110 small-scale entrepreneurs across the 11 wards of Akko Local Government Area in Gombe State. Each ward had 10 beneficiaries who received substantial capital to boost and expand their businesses.

The initiative, described as a transformative empowerment program, aims to tackle unemployment and provide sustainable livelihoods by enabling beneficiaries to grow their businesses into profitable ventures.

The representatives of the beneficiaries included Umar Ahmed from Kumo Central, Jamila Hassan from Kumo East, Bala Abdu Umaru from Kalshingi, Bilkisu Ayuba from Garko, Baje Usman from Kumo West, Musa Muhammad from Lambi, Hadiza Muhammad from Tukulma, Yahaya Umar from Akko, Umar Adamu Garba from Kashere, Zainab Shehu from Pindiga, and Ibrahim Usman from Tumu.

Jamila Hassan, one of the beneficiaries, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the foundation during the handover ceremony. She described the intervention as a life-changing opportunity” that will not only transform their businesses but also enhance the overall economic well-being of their families and communities.

“We sincerely thank the Hamma Saleh Memorial Foundation for this wonderful job. Many of us have struggled to access funds to support our businesses, but today, our hopes have been restored. This will create new opportunities for us to thrive,” she stated.

The Chairman of the Hamma Saleh Memorial Foundation, Alhaji Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh, emphasized the foundation’s commitment to community development, highlighting that empowering entrepreneurs is a key strategy for reducing poverty and fostering economic independence.

“We believe in empowering our people to take charge of their lives. Providing capital is not just about giving money—it’s about investing in dreams, ideas, and hard work. We hope this support will uplift businesses and inspire others to strive for success,” Alhaji Saleh remarked.

Hon. Ahmed Shehu Baban Kumo, the PDP Youth Leader of Akko Local Government, applauded the initiative, describing it as a “bold and visionary approach” to addressing economic challenges in the area.

He appreciated Alhaji Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh for his commitment to empowering the youth, women and vulnerable groups.

“This empowerment will go a long way in reducing unemployment and improving livelihoods. We sincerely appreciate Alhaji Hamma Saleh for leading by example and providing a model for others to follow,” he stated.

Local leaders, community stakeholders, and traditional rulers who attended the event praised the foundation’s initiative, noting its potential to stimulate economic activity across Akko Local Government.

In addition to the financial support, the foundation also pledged to provide mentorship programs and business training workshops to help beneficiaries manage their enterprises effectively and ensure long-term success.

Residents of Akko commended the initiative, calling on other organizations and well-meaning individuals to emulate the foundation’s generosity and commitment to grassroots development.

The event concluded with prayers and cheers, as beneficiaries received their capital packages and posed for photographs to mark the occasion.

This empowerment program stands as a beacon of hope, reinforcing the Hamma Saleh Memorial Foundation’s dedication to creating a better future for the people of Gombe State.