The Ilorin Likeminds Foundation has announced a strategic shift from conventional skill acquisition programmes to entrepreneurship development as part of efforts to drive sustainable economic growth in the community.
The President of the Foundation, Alhaji Lukman Atanda Abdullahi, disclosed this on Thursday, 29th May 2026, during the Foundation’s 2026 Annual Dinner Night held at Hub Innovation, Ilorin.
He said that the Executive Committee began strategic consultations immediately after inauguration to reposition the Foundation for greater impact and sustainability.
Atanda noted that a key turning point was a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, where the Foundation presented its developmental roadmap in entrepreneurship, project execution, and fundraising.
“While skill acquisition teaches people how to earn a living, entrepreneurship goes beyond that — it creates businesses, generates employment opportunities, builds wealth, and produces long-term economic impact in society.
“It is therefore our vision to raise a new generation of entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors within our community — individuals who will become employers of labour, innovators, and drivers of economic prosperity,” he said.
The President appealed to successful investors and business owners to partner with the Foundation by creating mentorship and integration opportunities for youths in their enterprises.
On institutional sustainability, Atanda said the Foundation has prioritized revenue generation beyond member donations stressing that, “A working visit was paid to Dr. Limota Goroso-Giwa, an NGO administrator, to understudy sustainable funding models. A committee has since been constituted to develop practical strategies for strengthening the Foundation’s financial base.”
In the area of community intervention, the President announced that the Foundation is in discussions with medical authorities to renovate and upgrade a ward in a state government hospital as a legacy project.
The Ilorin Likeminds Foundation, according to Alhaji Atanda “also sustained its humanitarian support during the year, including Ramadan outreach programmes, support for correctional centres, and assistance to members facing health and bereavement challenges.”
He congratulated Dr. Tajudeen Eleku, a distinguished member of the Foundation, on the recent conferment of an honorary doctorate degree by Al-Hikmah University.
The President further commended members, elders, partners, and the Board of Trustees for their commitment and sacrifices, and urged continued financial, moral, and intellectual support to achieve the Foundation’s vision.
“May the Ilorin Likeminds Foundation continue to grow in strength, unity, and impact. May Almighty Allah bless our efforts and grant us greater success in all our endeavours,” he concluded.
