The Yoruba Community in Enugu State has launched a scholarship program for 30 indigenes from the South-West region residing in the Southeastern state, as part of efforts to advance educational development. The initiative was announced during the formal inauguration of cabinet members for the newly appointed Oba of the Yoruba Community in Enugu, Engineer Isiaka Salmon, held over the weekend.
Salmon, a computer engineering lecturer specializing in cybersecurity and IT, disclosed that the beneficiaries will attend institutions such as Kwara State Polytechnic and Gateway College of Education in Osun State, with plans to expand the program. “This is a continuous exercise aimed at empowering our youth through education,” he stated, reflecting on his journey from serving as a corps member in Enugu in 2007 to leading the community.
His selection followed a rigorous process involving nominations from Yoruba residents across Enugu. Six candidates were initially shortlisted, narrowed to two, with Salmon emerging as the final choice after his competitor, a retired police officer from Oyo State, withdrew. “Leadership emerges naturally,” Salmon remarked, pledging to leverage his technical expertise and membership in professional bodies like the Nigerian Society of Engineers to foster unity and progress.
The event also highlighted inter-ethnic harmony, with Hausa Community leader Lajanu Suleiman praising Enugu Governor Peter Mbah for enhancing security and infrastructure. “Igbo communities prioritize business and peaceful coexistence—we thrive here without tribal or religious conflict,” Suleiman noted.
Salmon echoed this sentiment, commending Mbah’s governance strides and reaffirming the Yoruba community’s commitment to peaceful collaboration with the state. The scholarship program and leadership transition underscore efforts to strengthen educational opportunities and multicultural cohesion in Enugu.
