By Suleiman Abdulmumin
DAM Foundation Civic Recreation Complex has been commissioned by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. In his address at the commissioning ceremony on Monday, the Governor expressed his gratitude to the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha, for establishing the DAM Foundation, which supports the development objectives of the state, by investing in this project.
According to the Governor, the recreation center has been created for the less privileged members of society, as well as the youths, to offer them a venue for the development of their innate talents and for the promotion of togetherness in society.
Governor Ododo reiterated that his administration maintains an open atmosphere where individuals can support developments at the grassroot level, just like the DAM Foundation, for the advancement of society.
Earlier, Dr. Mustapha thanked the Governor for his presence and considered this an indication of the dedication and commitment the state has towards an inclusive form of governance and the ‘Renewed Hope’ vision set forward by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The founding ideals behind the foundation, according to him, include the recognition that any form of sustainable development can only be witnessed in those areas where the inhabitants possess the resources and support required. The location for the new facility was once idle and associated with unproductive activities.
The occasion also saw some specific milestones being reached by the foundation, which include the establishment of the 2025 DAM Foundation Basketball Championship and the commissioning of a 100-bed athlete hostel.
According to Mustapha, “The foundation has already influenced the placement of hundreds of youths in public and private employment and provides scholarships for education.” At the end of the event, about 1,000 women and youths who had undertaken intensive training in ICT and crafts received certifications and tools for their endeavours.