Kwara Rising

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  • Video : CDS Launches Operation Savannah Shield in Kwara to Strengthen Fight Against Insecurity

    Video : CDS Launches Operation Savannah Shield in Kwara to Strengthen Fight Against Insecurity

    … Hails supports of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the Armed Forces

    The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, has launched Operation Savannah Shield in Kwara State as part of renewed efforts to tackle insecurity and criminal activities across Kwara and neighbouring Niger State.

    Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Defence Chief said the operation was designed to checkmate criminal elements responsible for recent security challenges within the region.

    Oluyede said his visit also served as an opportunity to commiserate with the government and people of Kwara State over casualties recorded from recent security incidents.

    “Your Excellency, I am here briefly to pay homage. The essence of my coming to Kwara today is to launch Operation Savannah Shield,” he said.

    He explained that the new operation is a joint task force bringing together combat units from different security formations to strengthen coordinated responses against insecurity.

    According to him, the Armed Forces have aggregated personnel and operational assets under a unified command structure to improve effectiveness on the field.

    “With this robust approach, we believe that things will get better within Kwara and Niger States,” the Defence Chief stated.

    Oluyede acknowledged the security pressures facing the Armed Forces and appealed for continued collaboration between federal and state authorities, noting that logistics and operational support remain critical to achieving lasting results.

    He specifically commended Governor AbdulRazaq, who also chairs the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, for his consistent support to the military and security agencies nationwide.

    “It is important for me to put it on record that you have been very supportive, not only to the Brigade but to the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said, adding that sustained cooperation from state governments would further strengthen ongoing operations.

    The launch of Operation Savannah Shield is expected to enhance intelligence sharing, improve rapid response capabilities, and restore confidence in communities affected by security threats across the Kwara–Niger corridor.

  • Kwara Govt Begins Construction of State Convention Centre

    Kwara Govt Begins Construction of State Convention Centre

    … Site handed over to contractor as state targets conferences, tourism, and investment growth

    The Kwara State Government has officially commenced construction of the proposed State Convention Centre following the handover of the project site to Vita Construction Company Limited.

    The Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, described the project as a major step towards infrastructural expansion and economic growth under the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

    Represented at the ceremony by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Mary Kemi Adeoshun, the commissioner said the Convention Centre underscores government’s plan to provide world-class facilities that will position Kwara State as a destination for conferences, tourism, and investment opportunities.

    She stressed that the project comes with significant responsibility and urged the contractor to deliver quality work within the agreed timeline while strictly adhering to approved specifications.

    Adeoshun also called on all stakeholders to maintain professionalism and safeguard the integrity of both the construction company and the state government throughout the project execution.

    Speaking at the event, the General Manager of the Kwara State Public Procurement Agency (KWPPA), QS Raheem Baki, expressed satisfaction that the landmark project was taking off during his tenure. He commended the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology for successfully driving key infrastructure initiatives, including the Ilorin International Conference Centre project, rehabilitation works at Kwara Hotel, and the construction of the garment factory.

    Baki urged the consultant and contractor to work collaboratively to ensure smooth execution and successful completion of the Convention Centre.

    Also speaking, representative of Baron Consultants, Arc. Mubarak Gidado, appreciated the state government for initiating what he described as a transformative project. He assured that adequate supervision and professional guidance would be provided to ensure compliance with project standards.

    The Convention Centre project is expected to strengthen Kwara State’s capacity to host large-scale national and international events while stimulating economic activities within the state.

  • Kwara Govt Issues Promotion Letters to Over 2,000 Civil Servants

    Kwara Govt Issues Promotion Letters to Over 2,000 Civil Servants

    … Beneficiaries to begin enjoying financial benefits immediately

    The Kwara State Government has issued promotion letters to over 2,000 civil servants who participated in the 2024 promotion exercise, reaffirming its commitment to workers’ welfare and career progression in the state public service.

    Chairman of the State Civil Service Commission, Hajia Habibat Yusuf, disclosed this in Ilorin, noting that the exercise followed the approval of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

    According to her, more than 2,000 officers sat for the 2024 promotion examinations and interviews, with an impressive pass rate of 98.87 percent.

    She explained that civil servants who have received their promotion letters will immediately begin to enjoy the financial benefits attached to their new ranks.

    Hajia Yusuf commended the governor for prioritising the welfare of workers, adding that adequate funds and logistics were provided to Ministries, Departments and Agencies to ensure the smooth conduct of the promotion exercise.

    She said the support from government has strengthened efficiency and boosted productivity across the state civil service.

    The commission chairman urged the newly promoted officers and other public servants to remain dedicated, proactive, loyal, and committed to delivering quality service to the people of Kwara State.

  • NCC Tasks Telecoms Chiefs on Digital Inclusion, Pushes for Free Access to Educational Platforms

    NCC Tasks Telecoms Chiefs on Digital Inclusion, Pushes for Free Access to Educational Platforms

    The Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Chief Idris Olorunnimbe, has charged the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) to urgently prioritise the zero-rating of educational websites, describing it as a high-impact intervention that can immediately widen access to learning resources for millions of Nigerians.

    “If we are serious about inclusive growth, then access to learning materials cannot remain a privilege,” the NCC Chairman said. “ALTON must lead on practical steps like zero-rating credible educational platforms so that students and teachers, regardless of location or income, can learn without the barrier of data costs.”

    Chief Olorunnimbe gave the charge when ALTON, led by its Chairman, Engineer Gbenga Adebayo, paid a courtesy visit to him at the Ikoyi Office of the Commission.

    The meeting, which focused on strengthening collaboration for the growth of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, also highlighted the industry’s role in national development priorities, particularly expanding digital inclusion and human capital development.

    “This is about ensuring that no child is left behind in the digital age,” he added. “It aligns squarely with Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda on inclusive, quality education, and it is a clear area where telecom operators can make an immediate, measurable difference.”

    Underscoring the significance of the sector, Chief Olorunnimbe described telecommunications as the central nervous system of the economy, noting that when networks fail, it leads to significant disruption key economic drivers areas such as commerce, education, healthcare and governance.

    Without compromising on the objectives of fairness, accountability and integrity, he renewed the pledge of the NCC to the visiting delegation to provide and drive growth describing the regulator – operator relationship as that of ‘partners in progress.’

    Chief Olorunnimbe also reaffirmed the independence of the Commission, stating that regulatory decisions would continue to be guided by national interest and institutional integrity.

    According to him, enforcement of the Critical National Infrastructure designation must be strengthened, insisting that accountability for infrastructure damage should be non-negotiable.

    Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Engineer Adebayo, Chairman, ALTON congratulated the chairman on his appointment assuring him of working on his charge on zero-rating digital educational platforms among other salient contributions. He noted the significance of such a move in nation-building promising to rally members of the association behind the idea after due deliberation and engagements.

    The ALTON leadership commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his policy reforms noting that Nigerians are seeing the result of some of the reforms. According to him, the forex reforms for instance, has helped restored stability and investor confidence within the ecosystems.

    Adebayo also lauded the NCC for their pivotal role in resolving the N300 billion USSD debt owned by banks. He said, “The USSD debt crisis accumulated over four years to nearly ₦300 billion and posed systemic risks to the telecoms and digital financial ecosystem.

    “However, through regulatory intervention, the system was migrated to end-user billing and the outstanding debt was eliminated, converting what was a looming crisis into a sustainable framework,” Adebayo said.

  • KWARA STATE GOVERNOR PAYS CONDOLENCE VISIT TO NIGER COUNTERPART OVER INSECURITY

    KWARA STATE GOVERNOR PAYS CONDOLENCE VISIT TO NIGER COUNTERPART OVER INSECURITY

    … Governors agree on joint security measures to curb attacks in border communities

    Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has paid a condolence visit to farmer Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago over the recent terrorist attacks in some communities under Borgu Emirate in Niger State.

    Governor Abdulrazaq described the terrorist attacks as unfortunate and heartbreaking, saying their nefarious activities have claimed many lives, destroyed livelihoods, and rendered many homeless.

    He extended the sympathy of the Kwara State government and the Nigeria Governors Forum to the government and people of Niger State and assured that efforts will continue to be made in collaboration with relevant authorities to address the security challenges across the country.

    He revealed that both states convened a joint security council session where they discussed intelligence sharing and coordinated strategies to address insurgency and other criminal activities along their shared borders.

    According to him, strengthened cooperation between the two states is necessary to prevent further loss of lives and restore confidence among residents of the affected communities.

    Governor Bago said the discussions centred on practical steps to improve joint security operations and enhance surveillance across border areas.

    He noted that tighter coordination between security agencies and both state governments would be critical in curbing renewed attacks and protecting vulnerable communities.

  • Video: First Commander of Operation Savannah Shield Deployed to Kwara

    Video: First Commander of Operation Savannah Shield Deployed to Kwara

    …Governor Confirms Military Response After Briefing President on Kaiama Attack

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has confirmed the immediate deployment of the first commander for Operation Savannah Shield to Ilorin, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to confront terrorist elements in the state.

    The announcement came after Governor AbdulRazaq met with the President on Thursday in Abuja to brief him on Tuesday’s deadly attack in Kaiama Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed over 160 lives.

    The Governor expressed appreciation for the swift federal response in establishing the new military operation aimed at restoring security in affected regions. He stated that the commander has already begun operational activities, emphasizing confidence in the military’s capacity to stabilize the area.

    President Tinubu had earlier ordered the deployment of an army battalion to launch Operation Savannah Shield, with clear instructions to security forces to reclaim affected communities and ensure the return of peace. The operation will target terrorist cells, bandits, and kidnappers that have recently extended activities into Kwara and other North-Central states.

  • Video : Governor Pays Condolence Visit to Kaiama, Condemns Attack as Act of Cowardice

    Video : Governor Pays Condolence Visit to Kaiama, Condemns Attack as Act of Cowardice

    …President Tinubu Orders Army Battalion for “Operation Savannah Shield” into Kaiama

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq paid a condolence visit to Woro and Nuku communities of Kaiama Local Government Area where locals were killed for refusing to surrender to extremist doctrine.

    The Governor, who arrived in Kaiama accompanied by service chiefs and cabinet members, disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the immediate deployment of an army battalion to launch counter-offensives codenamed “Operation Savannah Shield.”

    Governor AbdulRahman condemned the Tuesday attack as a cowardly act by terrorist cells frustrated by ongoing security operations across the state. He expressed deep condolences to the affected families and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting all communities.

    The newly approved military deployment aims to intensify counterterrorism campaigns in the region, building on recent operations that have disrupted several kidnapping and terrorist networks. The Governor assured residents that the security forces remain focused on dismantling all threats to peace in Kwara.

  • Nigerian Army Launches “Operation Forest Flush,” Dislodges Terrorist Camps in Kwara

    Nigerian Army Launches “Operation Forest Flush,” Dislodges Terrorist Camps in Kwara

    …Troops Neutralize Fighters, Rescue Kidnap Victims in Sustained Offensive

    The Nigerian Army’s 2 Division has launched a major security operation, “Operation Igbo Danu” (Operation Forest Flush), targeting terrorist hideouts across Kwara State. Between January 23 and 29, 2026, troops from the 22 Armoured Brigade—supported by the Office of the National Security Adviser—conducted coordinated assaults on bandit enclaves in forested areas, including Garin Dandi in Ifelodun Local Government.

    Under the command of Major General Chinedu Nnebife, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, and Brigadier General Nicholas Rume of 22 Brigade, the operation resulted in the neutralization of terrorists, destruction of multiple camps, and the rescue of kidnap victims. Several suspects were also apprehended while attempting to flee.

    The army reported that bandits had received early warnings from collaborators within nearby communities, allowing some to escape with gunshot wounds. Despite challenging terrain, troops maintained aggressive patrols and blocking positions, significantly degrading the insurgents’ logistics and freedom of movement.

    Major General Nnebife has called on the public to continue providing credible intelligence to support ongoing operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks within the state.

  • Kwara Reopens Schools as Security Operations Continue

    Kwara Reopens Schools as Security Operations Continue


    …Government Says Safety Situation Has Improved, Vigilance Maintained

    Schools across Kwara State will reopen on Monday, February 2, 2026, following improvements in security conditions. The decision was announced by the State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, after consultations with security agencies.

    In a statement released on Sunday, the government noted that continuous security operations have significantly neutralized threats to public safety, including educational institutions. “The government deems the situation now to be a lot better than it was before. Even so, we continue to maintain vigilance,” the statement read.

    Security operations remain ongoing to sustain recent gains, supported by efforts to build community resilience alongside targeted security activities. School authorities have been formally notified of the resumption and are expected to adhere to all safety guidelines issued by the state.

    The reopening follows weeks of intensified security measures aimed at stabilizing affected areas and ensuring the protection of students, teachers, and school facilities.

  • Viral video showing beating of protesting women in Kwara manipulated – Police

    Viral video showing beating of protesting women in Kwara manipulated – Police

    The Kwara State Police Command has dismissed as fake and misleading a viral video alleging that women were assaulted during a protest at the Government House in Ilorin, describing the footage as digitally manipulated.

    The police made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday by the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, following public outrage over a video that surfaced on social media claiming that security operatives brutalised women protesters at the Government House on December 27, 2025.

    According to the command, a forensic analysis of the video revealed that it was a composite clip created by splicing unrelated footage together to falsely portray an incident that never occurred at the Government House.

    “The video currently circulating is a digitally manipulated composite. It was deliberately edited by merging scenes of violent altercations from unrelated incidents with footage from a peaceful protest to create a false narrative,” the statement read.

    The police further disclosed that some of the images being circulated alongside the video were traced to separate incidents that occurred several months earlier and had no connection with any protest in Ilorin.

    The command added that efforts by its investigative team to locate and interview the alleged victims, particularly the two women featured in the viral clip, had proved abortive.

    “Despite public appeals, no individual or group has come forward to lodge a formal complaint regarding the alleged assault,” the statement added.

    Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adekimi Ojo, warned against the spread of unverified information capable of inciting public disorder.

    He reiterated the need for organisers of public demonstrations to always notify and liaise with security agencies ahead of time, noting that such coordination enables the police to provide adequate security, prevent infiltration by hoodlums and ensure the safety of participants and members of the public.

    The police boss assured residents that the command remains committed to protecting citizens’ rights while maintaining law and order across the state.

    “The Kwara State Police Command remains dedicated to safeguarding lives and property and urges members of the public to verify information before sharing it,” the statement added.

    The command also cautioned against the deliberate circulation of false or misleading content capable of undermining public peace, stressing that such acts could attract legal consequences.

    PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq directed the Kwara State Police Command to immediately carry out an investigation following widespread public outrage over the video, which surfaced online claiming that female protesters were assaulted during a demonstration at the seat of government on December 27, 2025.

    The incident had earlier drawn public attention after reports emerged that women protesting over alleged socio-economic concerns were manhandled by thugs in the presence of security agents.