On Monday, March 17, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was presented with a cheque by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, and the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, to support his philanthropic efforts aimed at assisting vulnerable Nigerians. The cheque, handed over at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, marks a significant step in the ongoing humanitarian activities being carried out by the President and the National Assembly to support the most vulnerable members of the society, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
The event took place as part of a special occasion where the President broke his Ramadan fast with members of the House of Representatives. It was a moment of both reflection and commitment to the welfare of citizens, particularly the less privileged, during a time of spiritual reflection and giving.
The cheque presented to President Tinubu symbolizes the collaboration between the Executive and the Legislature in Nigeria, working together to advance social welfare and provide much-needed assistance to vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, the poor, and those who have been displaced by various forms of hardship. This gesture is part of a broader initiative by the President to enhance the country’s philanthropic work, especially in times when Nigerians face economic challenges.
During the event, President Tinubu expressed his gratitude for the support and emphasized the importance of working together as a nation to uplift the most vulnerable, particularly during Ramadan. Ramadan, a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide, is a time when charity and acts of kindness are highly emphasized, and the President’s initiative aligns with these values.
The presentation of the cheque by the Speaker and Deputy Speaker highlights the ongoing partnership between the legislative and executive arms of government in Nigeria. In his remarks, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas stated that the House of Representatives remains committed to supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians, especially those who have been most affected by poverty and insecurity.
“We recognize the importance of the President’s work in ensuring that the welfare of vulnerable citizens is prioritized,” said Speaker Abbas. “We, in the House of Representatives, are fully supportive of these efforts and will continue to work with the President to create a better and more inclusive Nigeria.”
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu also echoed the sentiments of the Speaker, noting that the gesture was not only symbolic but also reflected the collective responsibility of the Nigerian leadership to give back to the people, particularly in times of need.
“Giving back to society is a fundamental responsibility of all leaders,” Deputy Speaker Kalu remarked. “It is our duty to ensure that those who are less fortunate benefit from the blessings of the season.”
The timing of this gesture is significant, as it coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, a period in which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and focus on self-reflection, self-discipline, and charity. Throughout the month, many people increase their acts of kindness, donate to charity, and strive to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
For President Tinubu, Ramadan is not just a religious observance but also an opportunity to lead by example in supporting vulnerable communities across Nigeria. In his remarks, President Tinubu stressed the importance of empathy and support for the less privileged, especially during these challenging times.
“We must remember that the true spirit of Ramadan is not just in fasting, but in giving and uplifting those who are suffering,” President Tinubu said. “This is why we must continue to make efforts, both through personal acts of charity and government programs, to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians.”
During the event, President Tinubu also called on all Nigerians, regardless of their religion or background, to contribute to the well-being of others. He emphasized that the government, through partnerships with the private sector and civil society, will continue to ensure that vulnerable Nigerians are not left behind.
“As a nation, we must work together to support the most vulnerable, to lift those who are struggling, and to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind,” the President stated. He also made a strong appeal for national unity, stressing that only by coming together as one people can Nigeria overcome its challenges and build a brighter future.
The President further acknowledged the importance of working closely with lawmakers to ensure that government policies reflect the needs of the people. “I am grateful for the support of the House of Representatives, and I look forward to continued collaboration to ensure that our country moves forward in peace and prosperity,” President Tinubu said.
President Tinubu’s philanthropic activities reflect a broader vision for the country, where government interventions are not limited to policy-making alone but extend to humanitarian support. His administration has been focusing on various programs aimed at alleviating poverty, enhancing education, and providing healthcare, with a special focus on the most vulnerable sectors of society.
The support from the House of Representatives also demonstrates that Nigerian lawmakers are increasingly involved in contributing to national development beyond the confines of the legislative chamber. By actively participating in charity efforts, lawmakers are taking on a more direct role in improving the lives of their constituents.
Looking ahead, President Tinubu’s administration has vowed to expand its outreach programs and ensure that no citizen is left behind in the country’s development process. The funds raised and allocated through this gesture will be channeled into initiatives that provide direct relief to those who need it most, particularly in areas affected by poverty, insecurity, and displacement.
In addition to this, the President has called for increased involvement from the private sector, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders in the fight against poverty and inequality in the country. This collaborative effort is seen as essential to driving sustainable development and ensuring that the welfare of Nigerians is prioritized at all levels of government.
