Airtel employees support Zaria boy whose eyes were removed by kidnappers

Employees of leading telecoms operator, Airtel Nigeria, have come to the aid of Sadiq Usman, a four year old boy, whose eyes were removed by suspected ‘ritualists’ in Zaria, Kaduna State, earlier this year.

A delegation of Airtel employees led by the Regional Operations Director, North Region, Wole Abu, visited Sadiq Usman on Thursday, December 1, 2016 in his home town in Zaria, Kaduna and presented him with a cheque of N400, 000 (Four Hundred Thousand Naira), sophisticated Perkins Brailler, Braille Coacher, Abacus, typewriter, tailors frame and a computer laptop.

Airtel employees made the donations at the instance of its Employee Volunteer Scheme, a special platform created for the company’s staff to volunteer their time, skills and resources to uplift the underprivileged as well as support social causes that will create positive impact in the society.

With the donations, little Sadiq, a pupil at Prof. Ango Abdullahi International School, Zaria, is further empowered to learn to read and write, enjoy all the opportunities a good education provides and lead a normal life.

Commenting on Airtel’s employees’ support, the company’s Director of Corporate Communications & CSR, Emeka Oparah, said: “It is tragic and heart-breaking to see an innocent, vulnerable child suffer and go through such excruciating pains.

“My colleagues were deeply moved by Sadiq’s situation and generously supported the call to provide relief. Our support will not just end here, Sadiq is our adopted son and he will continue to be our priority and in our prayers

“I must thank my colleagues for their willingness to helping create a positive impact across the communities where we operate. Indeed, the Airtel Employees Volunteer Scheme (EVS) is committed to providing relief for the underprivileged, sick, physically disabled and hard to reach.”

Mr. Oparah also commended the authorities of Prof. Ango Abdullahi International School for offering Sadiq’s older brother and guide scholarship to be able to provide physical support to his disabled kid brother, adding that by the time the government of Kaduna State redeems its pledge of scholarship for Sadiq, his educational future and the opportunity to live and learn would be further guaranteed.

Sadiq’s family expressed their gratitude to employees of Airtel and other well-meaning individuals and organizations for coming to the aid of their son and making it possible for him to live a happy life despite the challenges.

Sadiq’s poignant story made headlines around the world after he was kidnapped and had his eyes forcefully removed by still unidentified assailants.

The unfortunate incident occurred in Bula area of Jushi in the outskirts of Zaria, Kaduna State, where little Sadiq lives with his parents. He was later treated at the ABU Teaching Hospital.