In a show of support for academic excellence and legal education, former Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has awarded N500,000 each to nine First-Class law graduates from Kwara State.
The gesture, carried out through the Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Foundation, was announced during a special dinner held in Abuja on Friday evening in honour of the State’s newly admitted Law School candidates. The event was organized by the ABS Foundation to celebrate the achievements of Kwara’s brightest legal minds.
According to Abdulgabiyu Abdulqadir, Press Officer on Local Matters to Dr. Saraki, the dinner drew together accomplished legal professionals, distinguished guests, and key stakeholders to mark a milestone in the lives of the young barristers — many of whom overcame daunting odds to reach this stage.
Delivering a heartfelt speech at the event, Dr. Saraki reassured the budding lawyers of his continued support, stating:
“You are not alone as you begin this next chapter. You have a father in Abuja. We are proud of you — your journey has only just begun, and the world is waiting for your impact.”
He further highlighted the Foundation’s sustained commitment to legal education, noting:
“For years, through the ABS Foundation, we’ve covered tuition fees, provided essential materials, and stood by students.”
Executive Director of the ABS Foundation, Dr. Audu Idowu Musa, underscored the Foundation’s broader mission, emphasizing its dedication to empowering vulnerable populations through interventions in health, education, youth development, sports, and mentorship.
“This gathering is not just a celebration of academic success, but a reaffirmation of our belief in your future and the role you will play in building a more just society,” Dr. Musa said.
Representing the newly inducted lawyers, Abdulazeez Abdulsalam, Chairman of the Kwara Law School Students Association, expressed deep gratitude to the Foundation and Dr. Saraki for their consistent support throughout their legal journey.
“Today, we stand not just as students, but as Barristers and Solicitors of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. During our journey, the Foundation came through for us time and again — from sponsoring wigs and gowns for 50 students, to covering call-to-bar screening fees for 35 of our members,” Abdulsalam remarked.
“It is an honour to dine with a father, mentor, and an icon like Dr. Saraki. This dinner means more than words can capture.”
The evening also featured remarks by Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Barr. Kamaldeen Ajibade, who advised the new lawyers to uphold the core values of discipline, diligence, and integrity in their careers.