Ilorin Likeminds Foundation Deepens Entrepreneurship Drive, Unveils Hospital Renovation Plan
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Ilorin Likeminds Foundation Deepens Entrepreneurship Drive, Unveils Hospital Renovation Plan
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The Ilorin Likeminds Foundation has announced a strategic shift towards entrepreneurship development as part of efforts to strengthen economic empowerment and expand its community impact.
Speaking at the Foundation’s 2026 Annual Dinner Night held at Hub Innovation, Ilorin on Friday, the President, Alhaji Lukman Atanda Abdullah, said the new direction was informed by consultations with the Board of Trustees and a growing need to move beyond traditional skill acquisition programmes.
Abdullah explained that shortly after the inauguration of the current Executive Committee, leadership undertook a series of strategic engagements aimed at repositioning the Foundation for greater sustainability and relevance.
According to him, a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Board of Trustees and other members provided critical guidance on the Ilorin Likeminds Foundation’s developmental roadmap, particularly on entrepreneurship, project execution, and funding strategies.
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The Board Chairman, he noted, made a clear distinction between skill acquisition and entrepreneurship, stressing that while skills help individuals earn a living, entrepreneurship creates enterprises, generates employment, and builds long-term wealth.
The President said the counsel had reshaped the Foundation’s priorities.
“We are gradually moving from a narrow focus on skill acquisition to a broader agenda of entrepreneurship development. Our goal is to raise business owners, investors, and employers of labour who will contribute meaningfully to economic development,” he said.
He further called on established business owners and investors within the Ilorin community to collaborate with the Foundation by mentoring youths and providing access to opportunities within their enterprises.
The President also disclosed that Ilorin Likeminds Foundation had intensified efforts to achieve financial sustainability through partnerships, investments, and collaborations with corporate organisations and NGOs.
As part of this drive, he said the Foundation undertook a working visit to NGO administrator, Dr. Limota Goroso-Giwa, to study sustainable funding models for non-profit organisations.
Following the engagement, a committee was set up to develop practical strategies to strengthen the Foundation’s internal revenue base and reduce overreliance on member donations.
On community intervention projects, he revealed that Ilorin Likeminds Foundation had commenced discussions on the renovation and upgrading of a ward in a state government hospital, which is being considered as a flagship legacy project.
He said consultations with relevant health authorities were ongoing to ensure proper planning and execution of the initiative.
The President also outlined the Foundation’s humanitarian activities over the past year, including Ramadan outreach programmes, support for correctional facilities, and assistance to members during periods of illness and bereavement.
He further celebrated the recognition of one of the Foundation’s members, Dr. Eleku, who recently received an honorary doctorate degree from Al-Hikmah University, describing it as a reflection of excellence within the organisation.
He expressed appreciation to members, elders, and partners for their continued support, noting that the achievements recorded so far were made possible through collective sacrifice and commitment.
The President urged stakeholders to sustain their contributions to ensure the Foundation achieves its long-term vision of community development, youth empowerment, and institutional growth.
