By Kehinde Erin
The ancient town of Okene in Kogi State, came alive with renewed hope as the DAM Foundation, unveiled three initiatives aimed at advancing education, strengthening community development, and promoting economic empowerment.
The landmark ceremony, held at Kahal Hall, Inoziomi in Adavi Local Government Area, underscored the Foundation’s growing stature as a driver of people-centred development and a champion of inclusive socio-economic progress across the state.
Central to the occasion was the commissioning of a modern hostel facility in Eika Adagu, Okehi Local Government Area, alongside the unveiling of the DAM Civic Centre at Ebegogo in Adavi LGA.
The projects were jointly inaugurated by the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Abdullahi Mustapha, and the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo.
These twin interventions were conceived to promote social welfare, dignified living, and community cohesion. While the hostel addresses the urgent need for safe, functional, and humane accommodation—especially for young people pursuing academic and personal growth. The state-of-the-art Civic Centre is designed as a vibrant hub for sports, civic engagement, dialogue, and cultural activities, fostering unity and nurturing local talent.
Beyond infrastructure, the event featured a robust empowerment programme that touched the lives of people across Kogi Central. Beneficiaries received bags of rice and beans, sewing machines, solar panels, solar streetlights, solar televisions, and tools for artisans including bricklayers and welders.
The initiative also include the distribution of writing materials and laptops, start-up funds for widows, motorcycle riders, and market women, as well as essential food condiments aimed at improving livelihoods and stimulating sustainable economic growth.
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Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, praised Abdullahi Mustapha for his generosity and commitment to community development, describing the gesture as a rare demonstration of selflessness and genuine love for the people.
The Governor urged other well-meaning individuals to emulate such acts of service, stressing the importance of collective responsibility in uplifting society.
In his remarks, Abdullahi Mustapha, founder of the DAM Foundation, noted that the projects extend beyond bricks and mortar. He described them as symbols of hope, opportunity, and a long-term commitment to building a resilient and self-reliant future for Kogi State, where individuals are empowered to take charge of their destinies.
He further explained that the empowerment programme represents a deliberate step toward economic inclusion, particularly for youths and small-scale entrepreneurs.
By providing practical tools, skills development, and financial support, the initiative seeks to unlock potential, encourage innovation, and create sustainable livelihoods.
The historic ceremony attracted high-level dignitaries, and other senior government officials. Their presence highlighted the power of collaboration between public institutions and private philanthropy in advancing sustainable development, and demonstrated how shared vision and collective action can drive meaningful progress at the grassroots.
