President Muhammadu Buhari, on Friday, charged contractors who have enjoyed government patronage, as well as other privileged citizens, to use their resources to support less privileged members of the society.
The President gave the charge when he paid a visit to the Emir of Daura, Dr Umar Faruk Umar, adding that passing gifts and ‘cheques’ to people in authority or already comfortable to buy favour is not the right approach.
According to a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, President Buhari challenged beneficiaries of government patronage to go to their respective communities and engage in corporate social responsibilities.
The President said “I don’t want your cheques. Go and assist our communities instead of trying to return kickbacks to public officers, including his office.
“We don’t want cheques from anyone or organisation as returns or influence of any kind. Let them remember their Corporate Social Responsibilities.”
The President noted that he would love to visit Daura more frequently, but for the high cost of presidential movements and exposing security personnel to the weather, assuring that his heart remains with the people.
He said the grace of God had kept Nigeria together as a country in spite of differences that led to a 30-month civil war
In his remarks, the Emir of Daura, thanked the President for always creating time to visit his hometown and the palace despite his tight schedule.
“Your visit to Daura reflects your good character which we are very proud of. I can assure you that men, women, children, marketers and artisans are always pleased to receive you and they will be praying for you.
“Today is not for speeches but for appreciation. We have been blessed so much as a community because you are the leader of the country. You have brought honour to our domain.
‘’As a community, we have benefited a lot with increased traffic of people and organisations coming to help us here. We know it’s because of you.
“May the good Lord always go before you and behind you, and remove all obstacles from your path,” he prayed.
During the meeting, the Emir publicly announced conferment of the title of Talban Daura on Yusuf Buhari, a son of President Buhari.
He said a date would be announced for the turbaning ceremony of the President’s son, which might likely be before his marriage.
The Emir also announced creation of a district in the community of the President, with headquarters in Dimurkol.
He said the turbaning of young Buhari and creation of the district was to further extend and deepen the long relationship between the palace and the family.
He said the decision was in agreement with the kingmakers in Daura Emirate Council.
