By Omowumi Omotosho
As the president of the 8th Nigeria Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki marks his 62nd birthday today, his life story unfolds like a masterful symphony, each note resonating with dedication, innovation, and a profound commitment to the betterment of Nigeria. From his humble beginnings to his transformative leadership, Saraki’s journey is a tapestry woven with threads of service, integrity, and an unyielding belief in the potential of his people.
Saraki’s political odyssey began in 2000 when he was appointed Special Assistant on Budgetary Matters to President Olusegun Obasanjo. In this pivotal role, he displayed an extraordinary vision that would soon redefine Nigeria’s fiscal landscape. His fingerprints are etched on the Fiscal Responsibility Act and the Public Procurement Act—two groundbreaking laws that ushered in an era of macroeconomic stability and transparency in governance. These initiatives were more than reforms; they were declarations of a new ethos in public administration, one rooted in accountability and efficiency.
Yet, it was not merely the brilliance of his policy work that set Saraki apart; it was his humility, his selflessness, his resolute refusal to be seduced by the trappings of power. For two years, while serving as Special Assistant, Saraki never touched the luxuries of his office. He lived in his personal house, never drove the official car, and astonishingly, refused to draw a salary. When he finally left the position, the salary he had foregone was offered to him. In a gesture that speaks volumes of his character, Saraki donated the entire sum to charity—an act of grace that mirrors his deep-rooted philosophy of giving back to society.
This chapter of Saraki’s life is a testament to a rare breed of leadership, one that prioritizes service over self, impact over indulgence. It was a prelude to the sweeping reforms and transformative policies he would champion as Governor of Kwara State, where he turned agricultural wastelands into thriving hubs of productivity. Under his leadership, the iconic Shonga Farms emerged, a symbol of the power of innovation and partnerships. From processing 2,500 frozen chickens daily to producing 50,000 liters of milk, Shonga Farms not only nourishes Kwara State but also provides chicken to KFC outlets in Lagos and bananas to Shoprite.
The ripple effects of this venture are felt far and wide. Villages near the farms now enjoy electricity, clean water, and healthcare facilities, while harvest seasons bring employment to thousands. Saraki’s vision attracted global investors like WAMCO and Olam, solidifying Kwara’s position as an agricultural powerhouse.
The rice fields of Kwara became emblematic of this transformation. Through the Outgrowers Scheme, a public-private partnership of remarkable ingenuity, rice production ascended from a modest 18,710 tonnes in 2003 to an awe-inspiring 400,431 tonnes in 2009. The fields of Kwara no longer whispered dreams of possibility—they roared with the triumphant song of achievement. Cashew processing, too, flourished under his gaze, as the Ogbondoroko facility emerged as a symbol of international collaboration and local empowerment. The infusion of $50 million in investments did more than revive the factory; it created jobs, provided stability, and wrote new chapters of hope for thousands of families.
Yet, Saraki’s vision extended far beyond the soil. He turned his eyes to the skies, where Kwara’s aviation sector found new wings under his transformative leadership. The Ilorin International Airport, once a relic of the past, became a vibrant hub of activity, its terminal reborn to meet modern standards. But it was the founding of the International Aviation College that marked a true renaissance. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the college became a cradle for future pilots, elevating Kwara as a regional beacon of aviation excellence and innovation, producing over 100 pilots within five years, many of whom now fly for major Nigerian airlines.
In the realm of power, Saraki’s legacy is illuminated—both figuratively and literally. Under his stewardship, Kwara became the first state to complete the Nigeria Independent Power Project, transforming the Ganmo Power Station into a powerhouse of hope. Its capacity, once limited, expanded exponentially, delivering near-uninterrupted power to urban centers and rural communities alike. The Saraki administration brought electricity to 375 previously isolated villages, connecting lives and igniting dreams in places where darkness had once reigned.
His economic vision was nothing short of revolutionary, weaving private partnerships, infrastructural revival, and social empowerment into a harmonious tapestry of growth. Under his stewardship, the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development emerged, a beacon of strategic foresight that charted a new socio-economic destiny. The advent of industrial giants like Dangote Flour Mill, Tuyil Pharmaceuticals, and Olams LTD marked an era of industrial awakening, while the rebirth of local enterprises like the Kwara Furniture Company and Kwara State Textile Industrial Limited breathed life into forgotten dreams. Saraki’s economic blueprint was not merely one of development but of dignity, providing livelihoods and hope to countless families.
In the realm of education, his impact was profound, almost celestial. The establishment of the Kwara State University in Malete was more than the creation of an institution—it was the planting of a tree whose branches would shelter generations in pursuit of knowledge. Saraki’s Teacher Development Needs Assessment program rekindled the flame of excellence in educators, by evaluating over 23,000 teachers to identify gaps in literacy and numeracy. This was followed by targeted retraining programs, raising the standard of education across the state and ensuring that every child’s potential was nurtured by skilled and inspired hands. Under his guidance, literacy rates soared to unprecedented heights from 78% in 2006 to 115% in 2009, with significant improvements in gender parity and transition rates to secondary schools. Schools in Kwara state became sanctuaries of learning, equipped with modern facilities and staffed with qualified teachers. In every village, in every town, his dream of education as a tool of liberation took root and flourished with classroom-to-pupil ratios dropped from 76:1 in 2003 to 32:1 in 2009, providing better learning conditions.
The story of Saraki’s leadership would be incomplete without the chapter on healthcare, where his vision redefined the essence of public service. The Kwara State Health Insurance Scheme became a masterpiece of inclusion, turning despair into hope with each life it touched, offering comprehensive healthcare services to residents for as little as N200 annually. By 2011, the program had extended to 10 out of the state’s 16 local government areas, significantly improving maternal and child healthcare.
The Kwara Advanced Medical Diagnostic Centre, a marvel of its time, stood as a glowing testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology—Imaging and Laboratory Divisions, a 64-slice CT scanner, a 16-slice CT scanner, a 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner, ultrasound, echocardiograms, mammograms, and routine x-rays—this centre became a beacon of diagnostic excellence in Nigeria. It was the first of its kind in the entire sub-Saharan Africa, drawing patients from neighbouring states to its cutting-edge facilities. This Diagnosis Centre not only offered world-class diagnostics but also brought hope closer to home for many, relieving the burden on wealthy Nigerians who had previously sought costly treatment abroad.
With Accident and Emergency Programme, the highways bore witness to his compassion, with ambulance stations strategically placed to deliver timely aid, saving lives that might otherwise have been lost. Through partnerships with global organizations, like Sight Savers International, the Kwara Eye Care Program saw the number of cataract surgeries increase from 120 in 2003 to 2,630 in 2009. His administration fought blindness, curbed diseases, and brought dignity to the marginalized, proving that leadership is not about power but about purpose.
Equally remarkable was Saraki’s commitment to gender development. Recognizing that no society could thrive without empowering its women, he championed initiatives that brought equality and opportunity to the forefront. Under his administration, the “Clean & Green Initiative” offered hundreds of women meaningful employment, weaving economic empowerment into the fabric of environmental renewal. Women found not only opportunities but a voice, as Saraki ensured their participation in governance. By 2010, all 16 Local Government Areas had elected female vice-chairpersons, with two electing women as chairpersons—monumental strides in a patriarchal society.
Under Dr. Saraki’s tenure, the roads of Kwara State became more than mere conduits; they were threads woven into the very fabric of the state’s economic and social heartbeat. The administration’s vision saw roads not only as pathways but as bridges connecting communities, businesses, and the state with its neighbors. This foresight laid the foundation for a new wave of commerce, smoother traffic flows, and greater accessibility.
The Geri Alimi – New Yidi Road and the Geri Alimi-Yebumot Road epitomized this vision, easing movement across the state and opening up new economic vistas. The 33-kilometre stretch of Ilesa-Baruba-Shikanda Road was not just a road; it was an invitation to opportunity, linking communities and markets, reducing travel time, and nurturing trade.
In the heart of Ilorin, the Post Office Area Flyover became a monument to progress, transforming daily commutes into smoother journeys. Its completion marked a new era, easing congestion and setting the stage for urban renewal. Dr. Saraki’s administration achieved an impressive 75% completion of road projects over a seven-year period, stretching over 417 kilometers. These roads were more than infrastructure; they were pathways to prosperity, fostering new economic zones and bringing a sense of cohesion to the state. The groundwork laid under his leadership became a metaphor for the state’s promising future, connecting the past with a vibrant, forward-looking present.
Urban development and housing became twin pillars of the Saraki administration’s mission, embodying the belief that a well-structured urban landscape is crucial for the quality of life. The establishment of the Kwara State Housing Corporation marked a significant step towards addressing the state’s housing challenges. In partnership with the private sector, this corporation was a catalyst for a new narrative in housing, providing affordable homes for civil servants and low-income earners alike. With estates like Mandate I and Mandate II, the administration provided a home for thousands, emphasizing civil servants and low-income earners, ensuring that the dream of homeownership was within reach for many.
The creation of agencies such as the Surveyor-General Office, the Land Information System (LIS), the Bureau of Lands, and the Kwara Geographic Information System (KWAGIS) reflected a commitment to modern urban planning. Their achievements, such as identifying land for various purposes, showcased the administration’s vision for sustainable growth and development. Key market redesigns like those of Oja Oba and Kulende not only enhanced trading experiences but also spurred local economic development, benefiting traders and customers alike.
Environmental consciousness was interwoven with urban planning through the ‘Clean and Green’ scheme. Launched in 2003, this initiative was not just about waste management; it was a holistic approach to beautifying the state, fostering pride, creating job opportunities, and setting a benchmark for environmental stewardship. Ilorin’s recognition as the cleanest state capital in Nigeria was a fitting tribute to the Saraki administration’s efforts to blend modernity with sustainability.
Saraki’s administration redefined accountability, fiscal responsibility, and transparency. Through a two-tiered oversight mechanism, all state government ministries and agencies were subjected to rigorous evaluation processes, ensuring the alignment and completion of projects with the state’s vision. The partnership with the Budget Monitoring and Price Intelligence Unit (BMPIU) was a game-changer, elevating transparency to new heights and bolstering project completion rates. The establishment of the Project Monitoring Unit was another pivotal move, ensuring that public funds were used judiciously, minimizing discrepancies and corruption.
Globally, Kwara State earned a groundbreaking credit rating from Fitch, becoming the first sub-national entity in Nigeria to achieve such recognition. The ‘B+’ rating for long-term foreign and local currency and a national long-term rating of ‘AA-’ underscored the state’s robust financial health and its appeal to global investors. Saraki’s visionary leadership in Kwara was marked by a judicious blend of strategy, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of the people. His tenure laid the foundation for a legacy of excellence in governance, setting a new benchmark for transformative leadership in Nigeria.
On sport, Saraki’s establishment of the Kwara Football Academy (KFA) marked a turning point, elevating Kwara State to the forefront of football development in Nigeria. The creation of KFA was more than an infrastructural initiative; it was a bold vision for nurturing young talent and empowering local youth with the skills needed for international recognition and professional careers. With Clemens Westerhof, a coach well-known for his success with the Eagles 1994, as the first administrator and director of Kwara Football Academy (KFA) from 2005–2010, KFA got the foundation to become a world-class football institution. His expertise and mentorship had a profound impact, shaping young talents with the knowledge and skills required for the international arena. In 2009, the academy received a tremendous boost when it hosted football coaching giant Jose Mourinho. His visit, with seminars and coaching clinics for local coaches, provided a unique opportunity for local talents and coaches to gain exposure to world-class training techniques, a priceless gift that catalyzed the state’s football education.
The KFA quickly gained a reputation as a premier talent incubator, launching the careers of footballing stars like Emmanuel Dennis, who now shines in the English Premier League for Nottingham Forest, and Ahmed Abdul-Taofik, making waves in the Latvia Premier League. These success stories are testament to the academy’s impact, showcasing the potential that lay within Kwara’s youth. The KFA’s influence extended beyond local borders when three of its students represented Nigeria at the U-17 World Cup in 2009, securing silver and amplifying the academy’s reputation on the global stage. This visionary move by the Saraki administration was not just about football but about fostering dreams and creating pathways to success.
Under the leadership of Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, a commitment to public safety became a cornerstone of his administration. Faced with challenges like firearm proliferation and the rise of cultism, Saraki’s government took proactive measures to enhance security and ensure the safety of its residents.
In 2003, Saraki introduced the groundbreaking ‘Gun Amnesty’ programme. This initiative offered individuals with firearms a 14-day grace period to surrender them to the police without facing legal repercussions. The programme was not only a recovery operation but also a pathway for empowerment and reintegration into society. Those who surrendered their weapons were provided with opportunities for employment, preventing them from returning to criminal activities. The success of this programme was a blueprint for similar initiatives, inspiring a nationwide replication, including by the federal government in the Niger Delta region.
In 2004, Saraki’s administration introduced the ‘Anti-Cultism’ law, broadening the definition of ‘cultist’ and imposing harsher penalties. This legislation was a significant step toward curbing cult-related crimes, leading to a dramatic decrease in such activities throughout the state. Within just three years, schools and communities experienced a positive transformation, a testament to the administration’s proactive stance on safety and security.
Recognizing that effective law enforcement requires modern resources, the Saraki administration embarked on a massive infrastructural push in 2009. This included constructing 25 new police stations and equipping the police force with modern tools such as bulletproof vests and state-of-the-art communication gadgets. Enhanced surveillance through advanced equipment like CCTV cameras further strengthened the state’s safety apparatus, enabling quicker and more effective responses to security situations.
The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), once a dormant gathering of political figures, emerged as a beacon of innovation and accountability under the transformative leadership of Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki. When Saraki ascended to the chairmanship in 2009, the NGF was like a vessel adrift, marked by low engagement, minimal activity, and a secretariat that barely functioned. Yet, as if guided by a master craftsman, Saraki reshaped the forum into a dynamic engine for governance and development, breathing life into its purpose and redefining its mission.
The NGF’s journey mirrors a tale of two eras. The first, stretching from 1999 to 2008, was a period of inertia, its potential unrealized. But with Saraki’s leadership in 2009, the forum entered its renaissance. His vision steered the NGF from being a mere congregation of state executives into a policy-driven, people-centric institution. At the heart of this transformation was the State Peer Review Mechanism (SPRM)—a cornerstone of Saraki’s leadership and a powerful symbol of his commitment to governance that prioritizes accountability and progress.
The SPRM, conceptualized and launched under Saraki’s guidance, was more than a mechanism; it was a philosophy in motion, a call to states to rise together through mutual accountability and shared wisdom. Born out of Saraki’s innovative peer-review tours, the SPRM created a platform where governors could exchange best practices and elevate governance standards. It marked a turning point, transforming the NGF into a crucible of progress where ideas were refined, tested, and shared across state boundaries.
In July 2011, the SPRM reached a pivotal milestone with the finalization of its Base Document. By November, an 11-member Steering Committee, chaired by former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, was inaugurated to oversee its implementation. Saraki, as Vice Chairman of the Steering Committee, played an active role, embodying the spirit of collaborative leadership and unwavering dedication to the cause.
The SPRM stood as a model of meticulous planning and execution. It empowered states to assess their policies, plans, and programs with a critical lens, fostering an environment of continuous improvement. By facilitating inter-state dialogues, it turned the forum into a vibrant marketplace of ideas, where successes were celebrated and lessons learned were shared.
To ensure the SPRM’s efficacy, Saraki oversaw the rigorous training of 107 consultants, carefully selected from over 4,000 applicants. These consultants, armed with technical expertise, supported the Steering Committee during the Technical Review Missions. The training sessions, personally led by Justice Uwais and Saraki, were a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence that defined this initiative.
This groundbreaking mechanism reimagined governance by fostering accountability and cultivating a culture of shared learning among Nigeria’s states. By enabling a systematic review of policies and practices, the SPRM illuminated pathways to improved governance, strengthening institutions and enhancing service delivery. It proved to be not just a framework but a crucible where innovation and best practices were exchanged, fortifying sub-national development and accountability.
In 2011, the establishment of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) was met with skepticism and resistance from many of the nation’s 36 governors. The Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), designed to safeguard Nigeria’s economic future and invest in diverse sectors, appeared to many as an encroachment on state resources.
Amid this maelstrom of doubt, Dr. Saraki emerged as a voice of reason and foresight. He recognized that the SWF held the potential to mitigate economic volatility and create sustainable development. Partnering with the Ministry of Finance, Saraki used his unparalleled diplomatic acumen to advocate for a model that balanced federal aspirations with state interests.
Through deft negotiation and persuasive advocacy, Saraki bridged ideological divides, securing the governors’ buy-in for the NSIA. Today, with assets exceeding $3.5 billion, the fund stands as a monument to Saraki’s vision—a financial bulwark ensuring stability and a cornerstone for national growth.
Before 2009, Nigeria’s battle against polio was largely fragmented, characterized by a top-down approach that often sidelined the states’ role in public health. Saraki’s ascension to NGF Chairmanship heralded a paradigm shift, transforming the anti-polio crusade into a unified and collaborative endeavor.
Saraki’s strategy was bold and innovative: he brought together multinational donors, the NGF Secretariat, and state governments into a cohesive force that tackled polio eradication with renewed vigor. His leadership fostered proactive engagement from governors, ensuring that the states took ownership of the initiative while aligning efforts with international stakeholders.
The result was a seamless coordination of resources and expertise that not only reinvigorated Nigeria’s fight against polio but also restored the confidence of development partners. Saraki’s unifying vision demonstrated that collective action, driven by focused leadership, could achieve what fragmented efforts could not.
Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki’s tenure as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) brought Nigeria to the global stage, forging partnerships that left indelible marks on the nation’s public health landscape. Collaborating with international giants like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Saraki transformed the NGF into a vehicle for impactful change. These alliances provided financial resources and technical expertise, enabling the implementation of robust immunization and polio eradication programs across Nigeria.
Under his stewardship, landmark initiatives such as the Immunisation Leadership Challenge and the Abuja Commitment came to fruition. In February 2009, with the support of Bill Gates, Saraki orchestrated an unprecedented commitment from all 36 state governors to actively engage in polio eradication and enhance immunization efforts. This collective pledge laid the groundwork for Nigeria’s eventual victory over polio—a triumph that reverberates as a global success story.
Saraki’s leadership was more than administrative; it was a call to arms for governors to rise as champions of public health. Through his vision, Nigeria became a beacon of hope, proving that strategic partnerships and unwavering commitment could conquer even the most formidable challenges.
In 2010, Nigeria stood at the crossroads of uncertainty, gripped by a constitutional crisis that threatened its democratic fabric. President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s prolonged medical absence without a formal transfer of power to Vice President Goodluck Jonathan created a leadership vacuum, leaving the nation adrift.
At this critical juncture, Dr. Saraki emerged as a lighthouse, guiding the nation through the storm. As NGF Chairman, he championed the Doctrine of Necessity, a legal principle that provided the foundation for appointing Jonathan as Acting President. Saraki’s advocacy was a masterstroke of statesmanship, balancing constitutional integrity with the urgent need for leadership stability.
Saraki’s tenure in the Senate brought to light one of the most significant corruption scandals in Nigeria’s history—the fuel subsidy scam. In 2011, as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, he moved a motion to investigate how N240 billion budgeted for fuel subsidy had inexplicably ballooned to over N1.2 trillion within ten months.
Saraki’s discovery revealed that approved appropriations by the National Assembly had been exceeded by a staggering N960 billion. He raised pointed questions about discrepancies in subsidy payments, noting how expenses for the first three months of 2011 averaged N62 billion but suddenly spiked to between N159 billion and N186 billion in the last three months of the year.
This exposé uncovered widespread fraud and mismanagement in the oil sector, saving Nigeria over N500 billion annually. Saraki’s tenacity ensured that the public became aware of the systemic corruption in the oil sector.
As the president of the 8th Nigeria Senate, Saraki carved his name into the annals of history with unparalleled legislative achievements. In a transformative 46-month tenure, the Senate under his leadership passed a record-breaking 274 bills and 192 resolutions—an extraordinary feat that stands unmatched in Nigeria’s parliamentary chronicles.
Dr. Saraki presided over a legislative renaissance, championing transformative bills that reshaped the nation’s socio-political and economic landscape. Among these was the Not-Too-Young-To-Run Bill, a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s youth, which boldly lowered the age for presidential candidacy from 40 to 30 years. This groundbreaking reform shattered generational barriers, breathing life into a new era of inclusivity and youth participation in governance.
Under his stewardship, the Senate also birthed the Police Reform Bill, a courageous step towards instilling transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s law enforcement. Further cementing his legacy, the long-anticipated Petroleum Industry Bill emerged as a blueprint for the transformation of the oil and gas sector, unlocking its vast potential for the prosperity of the nation.
Dr. Saraki’s resolve to tackle corruption bore legislative fruit with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) Bill, passed into law in 2017. This critical legislation fortified Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework, empowering the nation to trace and reclaim stolen assets. It marked a watershed moment in the fight against financial crimes, elevating Nigeria’s standing in global anti-corruption circles.
Saraki’s leadership extended to addressing the scars of insurgency. The passage of the North East Development Commission Act provided vital funding for rebuilding a region ravaged by the brutal onslaught of Boko Haram. In tandem, the Secured Transactions in Movable Assets Credit Act emerged as a lifeline for businesses, making access to loans more attainable and catalyzing economic growth. These initiatives, paired with other reforms, propelled Nigeria 24 places forward in the World Bank’s ease-of-doing-business ranking, a testament to the tangible impact of Saraki’s visionary policies.
Beyond legislative triumphs, Dr. Saraki was a steadfast advocate for the independence of the legislature and judiciary, pillars upon which any democracy stands firm. He championed transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity, ensuring that governance served the people’s interests. In the aftermath of the contentious 2019 general elections, Saraki’s diplomacy and statesmanship were instrumental in navigating Nigeria through a turbulent political storm, preserving the fabric of its democracy.
Dr. Bukola Saraki’s tenure as Senate President was a masterclass in progressive governance and legislative activism. His unwavering commitment to reform, development, and democratic values continues to serve as a beacon for leaders aspiring to leave indelible marks on their nations. His leadership reminds us that true progress is rooted in the courage to challenge the status quo and the vision to inspire transformative change.
Saraki’s courageous stance did not come without a price. By exposing the fraudulent activities of powerful oil cartels, he became a target of intense scrutiny and political attacks. His tenure as Kwara State Governor was suddenly under review, with frequent invitations to anti-graft agencies. Yet, Saraki remained undeterred, using his voice to champion transparency and accountability on national issues.
Dr. Bukola Saraki’s commitment to public service extends well beyond his political career, marked by a consistent dedication to philanthropy and community empowerment. Through his Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation (ABSF), Saraki has undertaken initiatives that address pressing societal challenges, particularly in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
Just a few days ago, the foundation provided grants to support 40 widows in Iseyin Town, Oyo State, coinciding with the coronation anniversary of HRM Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Adeyeri III, Ajirotutu I. This initiative was a timely response to the economic challenges faced by widows, addressing both immediate needs and long-term empowerment.
Saraki’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations is also evident in his 3-day Widows Empowerment Project launched in Kwara State few months ago. With Nigeria home to over 15 million widows, this initiative is crucial in providing economic opportunities and social support to these women. The project offers a comprehensive package including grants, vocational training, and access to microfinance, empowering them to become self-sufficient and improve their quality of life.
Additionally, the foundation’s annual Agricultural Inputs Empowerment Project in the Kwara North District is another example of Saraki’s dedication to community development. This initiative targets low-income farmers by providing essential agricultural inputs like fertilizers and herbicides. With over 986 primary beneficiaries and an anticipated 2,500 secondary beneficiaries, the project not only boosts local food security and agricultural productivity but also stimulates economic growth within these communities.
Saraki’s initiatives are not just about increasing crop yields; they are designed to combat malnutrition and enhance the resilience of the agricultural sector amidst Nigeria’s challenging economic environment.
Recently, Saraki sponsored 100 students at the newly established Mohammed Kamaldeen University (MKU) in Ilorin, Kwara State, providing ₦350,000 per session for each student throughout their four-year undergraduate programs. This initiative not only offers young Nigerians the opportunity to access higher education but also removes financial barriers, enabling them to pursue their academic dreams without hindrance. Saraki’s foundation also made significant donations to support MKU’s infrastructure, including the purchase of vehicles valued at ₦26 million, underscoring his commitment to enhancing educational facilities in his home state.
Beyond education, Saraki’s foundation provides crucial healthcare support. In 2023, it covered the medical expenses for Mr. Saheed Salman’s surgery for Left Humeral Osteomyelitis, a testament to Saraki’s compassionate approach to community health.
Another striking example of his compassion was further demonstrated when Saraki stepped in to clear the medical bills of beloved Nollywood actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu. This act of kindness not only alleviated the financial burden on the actor but also emphasized Saraki’s belief in supporting individuals during their most vulnerable moments, regardless of their background. Such gestures underscore his commitment to humanity and his readiness to stand by those in need.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation’s efforts included distributing PPE to hospitals and launching public health awareness campaigns, further demonstrating Saraki’s proactive stance on public welfare.
Additionally, the foundation has empowered many women through skills acquisition programs, equipping them with essential entrepreneurial skills. In November 2023, Saraki launched a digital skills training program, aiming to prepare young Nigerians for the opportunities in a digitized economy. This initiative aligns with Saraki’s broader vision of empowering youth to take charge of their futures and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Saraki’s tradition of giving during Eid-el-Kabir is another testament to his commitment to fostering community spirit. Each year, he distributes rams and food items to traditional rulers, religious leaders, party elders, and other community stakeholders. This gesture is not only a celebration of faith but also a means to uplift those who might otherwise be marginalized during the festive period, reinforcing his deep-rooted belief in shared prosperity.
Through these philanthropic acts, Dr. Bukola Saraki has demonstrated that leadership is not confined to holding political office. His foundation’s initiatives in education, healthcare, and community support have made a lasting impact across Nigeria, providing opportunities for thousands and fostering a sense of hope and possibility among those less privileged. Saraki’s efforts reflect a vision for a more inclusive society, one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.
As Dr. Bukola Saraki celebrates his 62nd birthday, it is fitting to reflect on the profound impact of his lifelong dedication to service. His unwavering commitment, both in and out of public office, has reshaped lives, empowered communities, and brought hope to many. The initiatives spearheaded by the Abubakar Bukola Saraki Foundation (ABSF) highlight not just a leader’s drive for societal progress, but a deep, personal resolve to uplift those often left behind.
Saraki’s legacy stands as a testament to the power of compassionate leadership. From economic empowerment programs for widows to enhancing educational access and promoting community health, his work transcends traditional politics and embodies the true essence of service. As he marks this milestone, Nigerians are reminded of the lasting influence of leaders who prioritize humanity and development over personal gain.
As we celebrate his birthday, may the vision and values that Saraki represents inspire current and future generations to prioritize community development, resilience, and shared prosperity. Here’s to more years of impactful service, driven by empathy and the belief that meaningful change is possible when compassion leads the way.
