Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, has articulated his belief that material gifts do not constitute effective empowerment for his constituents.
Speaking at a capacity-building workshop for community leaders and Baales, he emphasized that such material offerings are temporary and often lack a lasting impact on individuals’ lives.
During the workshop held at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, Salisu argued that material items, such as sewing machines and motorcycles, can easily be sold or become obsolete. Instead, he champions educational empowerment as a more sustainable approach.
He has actively supported scholarships for students and highlighted the importance of revising educational curricula to include modern skills like artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Salisu stressed that without significant investment in teacher training, any curriculum reforms would be ineffective. He called on traditional rulers and community leaders to collaborate in tackling the rising number of out-of-school children and to prioritize the value of formal education within their communities.
He urged all stakeholders, including parents and NGOs, to join in a collective effort to address educational decline, advocating for a proactive stance rather than a passive one.
His initiatives in empowering students included distributing school bags and educational materials on Children’s Day, further illustrating his commitment to fostering education in Ogun State.
The Olu of Itori, Oba Akamo, praised Salisu for his contributions, noting that no previous Senator has undertaken such initiatives, thereby affirming Salisu’s impact and dedication to his constituency.