In a comprehensive effort to uplift and transform Awe Local Government, Hamza Ibrahim Moyi, the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State on Sports Matters, has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have had a profound impact on the community.
From educational support to healthcare improvements, economic empowerment, and fostering unity through sports, Moyi’s dedicated service stands as a testament to effective leadership and community development.
In this exclusive interview with Daybreak Newspapers, we delve into his significant achievements and the visionary steps he has taken to ensure a brighter future for Awe Local Government. Congratulations on your appointment as SSA. Can you tell us about the significant initiatives you’ve undertaken since assuming this role?
Thank you. After my appointment, I organized several key events. In 2022, I launched the 1st Edition of the His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi Sule Inter-Security Unity Football Cup, which was historic in Nigeria. This event fostered peace and unity among security agencies. In 2023, I organized a novelty match to commemorate Nasarawa State’s creation, promoting togetherness among stakeholders. I also represented Nasarawa at a Sports Development and Business Summit in Hungary, where I emerged as the most outstanding participant. Furthermore, I’ve toured all 13 LGAs to discuss the importance of supporting government initiatives for local development.
How has the support from His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi Sule influenced your initiatives?His Excellency’s support has been crucial. He sponsored the successful 2nd Edition of the Inter-Security Unity Football Competition, enhancing unity and patriotism among military and paramilitary forces. His backing enables us to promote peaceful coexistence and development through sports.
What are your plans for future collaborations and developments in Nasarawa State? We aim to run sports as a business, develop and upgrade facilities, and enhance technical skills for coaches and referees. We also seek scholarship opportunities in Hungary, medical tourism, business investments, and a Twin City Project to foster sustainable partnerships and knowledge exchange. These initiatives will significantly improve the quality of life in Nasarawa State.
Can you share more about your experience at the Sports Expo recommended by the Embassy of Hungary? The Sports Expo with Dreamland Sports was enlightening. It brought together representatives from across West Africa, providing a platform to share ideas and strategies for sports development. This experience has been invaluable in shaping our sports policies and initiatives in Nasarawa State.
You are contesting for the Chairmanship position in Awe Local Government. Why do you think the people should trust you with such a mandate? The people of Awe Local Government should trust me with the Chairmanship mandate because of my proven track record of service and tangible achievements. As SSA to the Executive Governor, one of my earliest initiatives was organizing the 1st Youth Summit in Awe Local Government in 2021. The summit focused on the theme “The Role of Youth in Using Cyberspace to Promote Peace and Unity in Awe Local Government.” This event aimed to engage young people in discussions on leveraging digital platforms to foster peace and unity within our community.
What steps have you taken to support the education of vulnerable youths in Awe Local Government? Every year since my appointment, I have provided 100 free JAMB forms to vulnerable students in Awe Local Government. This initiative helps remove financial barriers to higher education. Additionally, I facilitated the establishment of a secondary school in Mahanga, emphasizing the importance of education in developing our youth physically, mentally, and morally. This year, I also gave 50 free WAEC forms to some vulnerable students in the area.
How have you contributed to improving healthcare in Awe Local Government? I have donated medical facilities to several primary health care centers in Awe Local Government. This ensures that basic healthcare services are accessible to our community, which is crucial for maintaining the health and well-being of our residents.
What other educational initiatives have you implemented in Awe Local Government? In addition to providing free JAMB and WAEC forms, I facilitated the conversion of Community School Baure into Government Secondary School Baure. I also established a JAMB center in Awe Local Government, which will start operating next year. Furthermore, I distribute writing materials to primary schools and offer scholarships to final year students from various tertiary institutions annually.
Have you been involved in securing employment opportunities for the youth in Awe Local Government? Yes, I have secured numerous appointments for youths in Awe Local Government. From my earnings as SSA, I provide allowances and stipends to 10 individuals. I also partnered with the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) to empower 100 youth and women, and facilitated the participation of 147 youths in the NPower scheme.
How have you supported local economic initiatives? I have facilitated financial support for many individuals through various programs. For instance, 84 beneficiaries received financial assistance through the Kudin AA. Sule initiative, and 150 people benefited from the National Social Investment Program, receiving #50,000 each.
What measures have you taken to ensure food security during festive periods? During festive periods such as Sallah, Christmas, and Ramadan, I distribute food items to ensure that vulnerable families in Awe Local Government have enough to celebrate and enjoy these important occasions.
Can you share more about your contributions to community development and support?I consistently support community development in various ways. Apart from the aforementioned initiatives, I also provide scholarships to students from the College of Health Science and Technology Keffi, College of Education Akwanga, Nasarawa State University, and other tertiary institutions.
Every year, I ensure that final year students benefit from these scholarships, which help them complete their education. Additionally, I am continuously involved in numerous other activities and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of people in Awe Local Government, although some of them are too numerous to recall in detail.
