Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State said in Ilorin, on Sunday, that the newly built Ilorin Innovation Hub was designed to empower the youth and encourage them to channel their creativity positively and for the economic development of the state._
AbdulRazaq, who spoke through the state Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Dr Afees Abolore Alabi, made this known in his message at the 3rd Annual Conference of the Sheikh Abdulsalam Islamic Dawah Foundation.
Themed “Social Media in 21st Century: Issues at Stake”, the event had in attendance Leader of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Barrister Abdulkadir Oba Magaji; Clerk to the House, Alhaji Ahmed Olayiwola Kareem; representative of Hon. Muktar Tolani Shagaya, representative of Balogun Alanamu of Ilorin, Dr Uthman Abubakar Jos; and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, one of the guest speakers.
The Governor challenged the youth population in the state to show keen interest in technological innovation and maximize the opportunity offered in the innovation hub to develop the state economy.
He told the gathering, populated by young Islamic scholars, to eschew internet fraud and source for wealth and fame through lawful means.
Alabi noted that Governor AbdulRazaq invested in the innovation hub to support technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation and ensure that Kwaran youths are 21st-century compliant with responsible use of their creativity.
The commissioner explained that the present administration has continued to model and mentor potential leaders among the youth by entrusting them with key leadership positions, adding that they have become shining examples to their peers.
He applauded the Governor for his interest in promoting digital transformation and economic development.
The commissioner, however, enjoined youths on the positive/impactful use of social media amidst its numerous challenges.
“My principal, who I am representing here, is delighted to be in the midst of young Islamic scholars, who have enjoyed nurturing and right mentorship of our foremost Islamic scholars.
“The theme for discussion here today also aligns with what the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is doing, that is, the newly commissioned Ilorin Innovation Hub This is providing our youths ample opportunity to channel their creativity positively and for the development of our state. Formal kicks off of programs at the Hub are scheduled for this Thursday, Feb 27, 2025.
“I’m glad to tell this Assembly of old and young Islamic scholars that what the Governor has done is what is expected of a leader that is forward-looking and futuristic. With the innovation hub, there is no need to ask yourself again that where would you utilize your naturally endowed creativity. It is just for you to take advantage of the facility and be part of the success story of what our Governor is trying to achieve”, Alabi said.
At the conference, Dr Afees Abolore Alabi was honoured with an award of excellence, which he dedicated to Governor AbdulRazaq for preparing the youth for the future to be at par with their counterparts all over the globe in technology advancement and entrepreneurship.
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