Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has informed contractors and businessmen that have benefitted from government contracts to take whatever appreciation they have for corporate social responsibility, CSR, rather than bringing kickbacks to him or government officials.
President Buhari stated this yeserday in Daura, Katsina State when he visited the Emir of Daura, Dr. Umar Faruk Umar, at his Palace.
He told beneficiaries of government patronage to engage in corporate social responsibility instead of seeking to favor individuals with gifts.
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A statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu quoted the President as saying, ‘I don’t want tour cheque. Go and assist our communities” instead of trying to return kickbacks to public officers, including his office.
‘We don’t want cheques from anyone or organisation as returns or influence of any kind. Let them remember their Corporate Social Responsibilities.’
The President noted that he would love to visit Daura more frequently, but for the high cost of presidential movements and exposing security personnel to the weather, assuring that his heart remains with the people.
‘We are known for farming and I have my farm here. I could come every two weeks and no one can stop me. But the cost to the movement is high. I would rather that it be used to better our schools, clinics, and hospitals,’ said the President.
The President said the grace of God had kept Nigeria together as a country in spite of differences that led to a 30 months of civil war
‘We want to thank God always for keeping us together as a country. From January 15, 1966, the country was thrown into a political crisis. We had a 30 months civil war that resulted in the loss of about a million lives.
‘We still thank God for keeping us together. We remain grateful to all those who showed interest in our unity and progress. May God continues to bless them,’ he added.
The President, who recalled fond memories of visiting the Palace as a military Head of State, expressed happiness that the warmth and hospitality of the traditional institution had been sustained over the years.
AFRICA TODAY NEWS, NEW YORK