*By Enitan Olukotun*
As Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA, marks his 61st birthday, it is only fitting to reflect on the extraordinary legacy of service, leadership, and impact he has built over the years. A man of profound vision and purpose, Senator Abiru has distinguished himself as a transformative force in public service, leaving an indelible mark on governance, economic empowerment, and human capital development.
Before venturing into politics, he had a stellar career in banking, culminating in his tenure as the Managing Director of Polaris Bank. Under his leadership, the institution thrived, reinforcing his reputation as an astute financial expert and corporate leader. His voluntary retirement in 2020 set the stage for a new chapter, a transition into a public service, which has been widely adjudged as exemplary, on the account of transformation he has brought to Lagos East Senatorial district.
Since assuming office as the Senator representing Lagos East in December 2020, Senator Abiru has revolutionized the governance landscape, redefining political leadership through impactful interventions, legislative excellence, and strategic empowerment programs. Dubbed the “Doing Good Senator,” his leadership is anchored on three fundamental pillars: Legislative role , Facilitations/ Empowerment and Endowment Projects.
His tenure has been characterized by a people-centric approach, guided by an extensive needs assessment initiative he conducted across the 98 wards in the 16 Local Government and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of Lagos East. This empirical approach ensured that governance was tailored to meet the pressing needs of the people, fostering a governance model that is inclusive, responsive, and impactful.
A key hallmark of Senator Abiru’s tenure has been his dedication to advancing critical legislation that catalyzes economic growth and social progress. His sponsored bills, including the Copyright Bill, now a law, and the Franchise Regulation Bill, along with the CBN Act Amendment Bill and NDIC Act Amendment Bill, which have both passed second readings, demonstrate his keen focus on strengthening Nigeria’s financial and creative ecosystems.
Additionally, he has tabled several motions advocating for the interests of his constituents while making substantive contributions during plenary sessions, reinforcing his commitment to policy-driven development.
Senator Abiru’s compassion for his people is evident in his various social intervention programs. In response to the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, he initiated a financial assistance scheme that provided monthly credit transfers to over 2,500 vulnerable individuals—including widows, the elderly, unemployed youth, persons with disabilities, and women—for 23 consecutive months.
Recognizing the persistent economic hardships, he extended his support through a quarterly food pack program, benefiting over 40,000 households in Lagos East.
Beyond relief efforts, Senator Abiru launched a N300 million Constituency Intervention Revolving Loan Scheme, offering MSMEs, artisans, and tradesmen access to financing at a highly concessional 6% annual interest rate, significantly lower than market rates. This initiative has empowered small businesses and strengthened local economies.
A firm believer in the transformative power of education, Senator Abiru has facilitated the construction of classrooms, modernization of learning facilities, and provision of bursaries for indigent students. However, his most remarkable contribution to education and human capital development is the SAIL Innovation Lab, a groundbreaking initiative in Ikorodu designed to equip young people with digital and innovation skills at no cost. In order to deepen access to tech and life transforming digital skills, Senator Abiru has commenced construction of another SAIL Innovation Lab and Sports Centre, at Orimedu, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, which is almost completed.
The impact of this initiative has been phenomenal. In 2023 alone, 106 graduates of the SAIL Innovation Lab secured high-paying jobs in Artificial Intelligence with Awari AI, while hundreds of others have secured decent jobs with reputable organizations, including many others who are breaking new frontiers as tech start-ups. No doubt, SAIL programmes have positioned young Nigerians for the global digital economy.
Understanding the pivotal role of infrastructure in economic development, Senator Abiru has facilitated numerous projects, including: The ongoing reconstruction of the 32-km Ikorodu-Itoikin Road, 1.2 Km Dagbolu Road, 1.2km Ojokoro Road, 1.2 km Agunfoye Road, Ojediran Street, Alhaji Andu/Oshikoya Streets, Ibu-Olwo Street, Apnea Jimbo Road, among others.
Also included are renovation of markets, like Oluwo Fish Market, Epe. Provision of transformers and solar-powered streetlights for various communities. Construction of three 40-bed hospitals, many Primary Health Centres and sporting arenas in Ibeju-Lekki, Somolu, Ikosi-Isheri, Imota and Epe.
Beyond his tangible achievements, what truly sets Senator Abiru apart is his integrity, forthrightness, and unwavering commitment to the people. His leadership is a reflection of the values Nigeria desperately needs—honesty, dedication, and a genuine passion for service.
As he celebrates this significant milestone, there is no doubt that Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA, will continue to blaze new trails, inspiring a generation of leaders committed to building a prosperous Nigeria.
*Enitan Olukotun, Media Aide to Senator Abiru writes from Lagos.*