The Kwara State Government has announced temporary security measures across selected schools in five local government areas in response to emerging threats linked to criminal activities in the region.
The decision affects schools in Ifelodun, Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin and Oke Ero local governments. According to the State Government, the action is part of a broader safety plan aimed at preventing kidnappers or fleeing attackers from targeting schoolchildren.
In a statement issued in Ilorin on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, said the government is acting to stay ahead of any threat and keep learning communities safe. He explained that boarding schools in Irepodun LGA are also covered under the arrangement because they could be considered vulnerable locations during intensified security operations in the state.
Dr Olohungbebe noted that the measures will remain in force while the government continues to review the security situation and awaits further clearance from relevant agencies. He assured parents, guardians and school authorities that the step is preventive and part of an ongoing effort to strengthen confidence in the safety of school environments.
The state government has urged communities to remain vigilant and provide useful intelligence to security agencies working in affected areas. Residents were also encouraged to support ongoing security work by reporting suspicious movements or unknown persons, especially around schools and farm settlements.
The latest announcement follows increased surveillance and recent federal orders for expanded security deployment in parts of Kwara following recent attacks in Ekiti LGA. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and a beacon of potential on the continent, continues to navigate a complex landscape of economic reforms, security threats, climatic vulnerabilities, and global pressures as of late 2025. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, launched with ambitious goals of economic diversification, security restoration, infrastructure revival, and social welfare enhancement, remains the guiding framework for national progress. Yet, two and a half years into the administration, tangible outcomes in several critical sectors fall short of the urgency demanded by citizens facing daily hardships, from blackouts and food shortages to rampant insecurity and untapped cultural wealth.
The average Nigerian believes the buck stops at the table of the president, they are half right. There are the buck bringers, the ministers who work closely with him and this is addressed to them. This opinion, grounded in fact and data looks at performance in four pivotal ministries: Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy; Defence; Power; and Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development. The intent is constructive: to highlight gaps not for blame, but to propel actionable reforms.
Harnessing Nigeria’s Vast but Underutilized Soft Power
Under Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa, the ministry’s merger of tourism, arts, culture, and creative economy was visionary, aiming to position these sectors as pillars of non-oil revenue and job creation. Nigeria’s assets are unparalleled: over 1,000 annual festivals, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove and Sukur Cultural Landscape), 14 tentative listings, vibrant Nollywood (second-largest film industry globally), Afrobeats dominating international charts, and natural wonders like Yankari National Park, Obudu Cattle Ranch, and the Idanre Hills.
Yet, as of November 2025, performance remains disappointing. International arrivals hover below pre-COVID levels, with World Bank data showing stagnation around 1-2 million annually, far behind Kenya (over 2 million) or Rwanda (rapid post-pandemic recovery). Tourism contributes less than 5% to GDP, compared to 10-15% in peers like Thailand or Kenya. Revenue projections for 2025 are modest at $3-5 billion, per Statista and WTTC estimates, despite potential for $10-15 billion with proper harnessing. Domestic tourism, vital amid economic constraints, lacks aggressive promotion—Lagos’ “Detty December” generates millions but remains localized.
In just 365 days, under the astute leadership of Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade, the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has done what previous administrations feared to even attempt: it has fully activated the NIHOTOUR Establishment Act 2022. Where others saw lawsuits and entrenched interests, Dr. Fagade saw a sacred mandate. He moved decisively to enforce registration, certification, grading, and regulation of practitioners across hospitality, travel, and tourism.
The physical transformation is breathtaking. From a mere six campuses and zonal offices, NIHOTOUR has exploded to twenty-nine locations across the federation in under twelve months.
This is not just brick-and-mortar expansion; it is a deliberate democratisation of skills and opportunities. Thousands of youths, women, and previously excluded practitioners now have access to internationally benchmarked training in culinary arts, tour guiding, hotel management, and customer service excellence. E-learning platforms have been scaled, curricula modernised, and partnerships with international bodies initiated. Perhaps most revolutionary is the regulatory courage displayed. Dr. Fagade’s three-phase strategy stakeholder dialogue, systematic implementation, and unapologetic enforcement (with security agencies where necessary) has forced compliance from powerful operators who had grown comfortable in the shadows. Hotels, travel agencies, restaurants, and event centres are now being graded and certified. Standards are no longer optional. Revenue that previously disappeared into private pockets is beginning to flow properly to government coffers and, more importantly, service quality is rising. Youth unemployment is being attacked at its root through genuine skill acquisition. Investors can now see a regulated, professional sector worth betting on. In one year, NIHOTOUR has become the brightest spot in Nigeria’s entire tourism ecosystem.
Few days ago, the Honorable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, in an act that can only be described as inexplicable, announced the immediate suspension of all NIHOTOUR enforcement activities nationwide. The very agency that has delivered the most tangible progress under the Renewed Hope Agenda; the one actually implementing President Tinubu’s diversification agenda while the ministry itself has remained largely invisible, has been deliberately crippled.
Challenges persist: insecurity deters visitors, visa processes are cumbersome (despite e-visa improvements), infrastructure at sites is poor (e.g., poor roads to Sukur), and marketing is fragmented. Initiatives like the D30 Data Platform (launched for creative economy insights) and collaborations with NIHOTOUR show intent, it should not be extinguished. Nollywood exports grow organically, yet government support for formal distribution and IP protection is inadequate. The creative sector employs millions informally but suffers from piracy and limited funding.
Comparatively, Rwanda’s “Visit Rwanda” campaign (Arsenal sponsorship) boosted arrivals 20-30% annually post-2018, generating billions. Kenya’s Magical Kenya brand and visa-free policies for Africans drove 32% growth in 2023-2024. Thailand’s integrated cultural-tourism strategy (festivals + eco-sites) yields over $60 billion yearly.
For the longest time, one project i have expected from the ministry has been a VR guided tour of the wonders of Nigeria; Old Kano city, The Ife sculpture, Benin walls, Igboukwu Terracotta carvings. Ease visas as Rwanda did, turning arrivals into millions. Fund creative hubs like Korea’s Hallyu wave, exporting Nollywood to billions. Certify sites for safety, involve communities as Benin kings once did their guilds. This is the chance to unlock 20 million job to rival the glory of oil.
Defence in an Age of Shadows
In the tales of old, Ogun, god of iron, forged weapons for justice, not tyranny. The Oyo Empire’s cavalry swept vast lands; Kanem-Borno’s knights repelled invaders across deserts. Leaders like Sunni Ali Ber of Songhai protected caravans, fostering peace for trade. Yet when shields cracked, empires fell to hubris.
Nigeria stands at such a monumental moment in our history, Hannibal stands at our gate, infact, to put it into proper context, Hannibal has already crept through the crevices. Boko Haram’s resurgence, bandits in Zamfara’s forests, Lakurawa’s terror in the northwest. In 2025 alone, over 2,266 killed in the first half, surpassing all of 2024. Some villages have been sacked overnight, hundreds killed. The schoolgirls of Chibok are in our rearview mirror, Just a few days ago, another school was ransacked, and school students were carted away again. Kidnappings haunt highways; 33 million face hunger partly from untended farms.
Honourable Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the defense minister, is supposed to stand guard against these marauders; however, that has not been the case. To see real gains, we must seal loopholes that leak information to the insurgents, shift to population-centric counter-insurgency (COIN) and protect civilians first (Colombia model vs. FARC). Night operations, mobility upgrades; reduce special forces over-reliance. The need for oversight is needed; AI/drones for real-time surveillance. Community intelligence networks will be better.
Security is the lifeblood of investments; we cannot say foreigners or even local investors should come and put their money where insecurity reigns. Mohammed Badaru needs to tighten his belt. The military must come back to working for the people, not their own selfish agenda and ambition.
Powering Nigeria’s Path to Industrialization
Reliable electricity is the lifeblood of modernization. Under Honourable Adebayo Adelabu, the Ministry of Power has pursued reforms like tariff adjustments and the Siemens deal for grid upgrades. Yet, in 2025, challenges endure: frequent grid collapses, estimated losses of over N10 trillion annually to businesses from unreliable supply, and only about 4,000-6,000 MW generated against a demand exceeding 20,000 MW.
Public frustration is palpable; tariff hikes without corresponding service improvements have sparked outcry from labor unions. While privatization aimed at efficiency, distribution companies (DisCos) struggle with metering, theft, and collection. Rural electrification lags, exacerbating poverty.
Progress includes some mini-grid initiatives and renewable pushes, but the gap between policy and delivery widens hardship amid inflation. There have also been a number of power grid issues this year. To see more gains, there must full implementation of constitutional allowances for states to generate and distribute power. Support models like Lagos and Rivers’ independent projects. Aggressively pursue solar and hydro, targeting 30% renewables by 2030. Partner with private firms for off-grid solutions in rural areas, akin to Kenya’s M-KOPA success. Also the ministry should look into establishing an independent regulator with citizen representation to oversee tariffs and performance, ensuring hikes tie directly to service improvements.
A Compassionate Response to Vulnerabilities
With overlapping crises,displacement from insecurity, floods affecting millions, and economic shocks, the ministry (post-reshuffle under new leadership) manages safety nets like school feeding and cash transfers.
Yet, 2025 projections are grim: 33 million in acute food insecurity, up significantly, with Emergency levels nearly doubling. Floods submerged farmlands, cholera outbreaks surged, and aid access remains blocked in conflict zones. Past scandals eroded trust, though reforms aim to clean up.
This ministry is one on which there are weights of expectation and a lot of eyes look to. In a bid to revamp soiled reputation, transparency must be the order of the day. The ministry must work on integrating disaster management with agriculture for flood-resistant crops and early warning systems in partnership with states. Empower state emergency agencies and NGOs for faster response, reducing bureaucracy.
Nigeria’s challenges are surmountable with leadership that embraces feedback. To the Honourable Ministers of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy; Defence; Power; and Humanitarian Affairs: this is a professional appeal to redouble efforts. The Renewed Hope Agenda can shine brighter with innovative, inclusive, and accelerated implementation.
We, as patriotic Nigerians, stand ready to support through dialogue, expertise, and partnership. Let us move from critique to collaboration, for a secure, prosperous, and vibrant Nigeria.
…AbdulRazaq pledges full support as operations intensify across Ekiti Local Government
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the deployment of additional security personnel to Eruku and surrounding areas in Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State following the attack on worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church on Monday.
Presidential spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the directive in a statement on Wednesday, noting that the President has also instructed the police to track down the perpetrators behind the attack. Tinubu said the security breach, along with the recent abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State, demanded urgent response and sustained action.
As a result of the situation, President Tinubu has postponed his planned trip to Johannesburg, South Africa for the G20 Summit and his scheduled attendance at the AU-EU Summit in Luanda, Angola. The President is awaiting further briefings from security agencies and Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is currently in Kebbi State on his behalf.
Tinubu stressed that security agencies must do everything possible to rescue the kidnapped schoolgirls and bring those responsible for the attack in Kwara to justice. He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government would remain firm and responsive in restoring safety in affected communities.
Meanwhile, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has assured residents that the state government will continue to support security agencies with needed logistics and resources to stabilise the area.
Speaking through his media team, the Governor said the deployment aligns with his earlier request to the presidency for increased military and police presence in Eruku and its adjoining communities. He noted that his administration has been in close coordination with security formations since the attack and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods.
Governor AbdulRazaq appealed to residents to remain calm, cooperate with security personnel, and report suspicious activity as operations continue across riverine borders and forests within the area.
He added that the government will not relent in its efforts to strengthen community security frameworks and enhance response mechanisms across the state.
The situation has drawn wide concern from community leaders and civil society organisations who have called for lasting solutions to insecurity threatening farming and border communities in the region.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has requested that more and urgent security deployment be made to Ekiti Local Government Area, especially Eruku axis, to immediately curtail the new wave of attacks in the area.
“The Governor has sought immediate deployment of more security operatives to support the existing security architecture in the area,” according to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Rafiu Ajakaye.
“He requested that this new measure be activated immediately. The Governor wholly condemns the unconscionable attack, sympathises and identifies with the people of Eruku and environs, especially families and the CAC directly impacted by the condemnable attack of Tuesday.
“The state government will continue to support the security agencies to tackle these challenges and ensure safety of lives and properties across the state.”
The Governor, similarly, commended President Bola Tinubu for the deployment of 900 additional troops in Kwara, saying this is expected to strengthen security in the state.
“We have indeed seen appreciable calm in many areas previously affected. We sincerely thank the President for this. We are confident that the additional troops will provide further deterrence, overall safety for our people, and permanent calm,” the statement added.
Rafiu Ajakaye Chief Press Secretary to the Governor November 19, 2025
… Amolegbe highlights sustained reforms and partnerships driving education growth in Kwara
#KwaraRising
The Kwara State Education Trust Fund has again taken the global stage as its Executive Secretary, Oluwadamilola Fatima Amolegbe, joined panelists at the World Bank’s “Entertaining Change: Next-Generation Media Partnerships for Social Impact and Gender Equality Forum” held in Abuja.
Speaking during the session on policy and advocacy, Amolegbe shared how Kwara is building durable systems that ensure reforms remain in place beyond any single programme or administration. She referenced the Kwara Education Futures Summit held shortly after Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq declared a state of emergency in the sector. The summit, led by education stakeholders including former World Bank Senior Education Specialist Dr. Tunde Adekola, produced a communique that now guides major reforms in the state.
She highlighted three key outcomes from that policy shift. KwaraAGILE, which supports adolescent girls in secondary schools. KwaraETF, which ensures a sustainable and transparent approach to funding education. And KwaraLEARN, the ongoing digital learning programme transforming public primary schools.
The Abuja forum is part of a wider global engagement convened by the World Bank Development Impact Group with support from IFC, the EU Delegation to Nigeria, Eden Venture Group, Women In Film, and the Gates Foundation. The gathering focuses on how evidence, technology, and creative storytelling can support gender equality and learning outcomes.
KwaraETF’s appearance at the forum reinforces its reputation as one of the country’s leading models for education funding reform and public–private collaboration.
… Governor Reiterates Support for Mechanisation as Emir Commissions Ultra-modern Mosque
Kwara State played host on Tuesday to top policymakers, researchers, and agricultural engineers as Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum led the 25th International Conference and 45th AGM of the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineers. The event took place at the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation in Idofian, Ifelodun Local Government Area.
In his remarks, Governor AbdulRazaq said the state is investing in policies and tools that support young innovators, researchers, and agripreneurs in scaling productivity and improving food systems.
He said more than 10,000 farmers in Kwara have benefitted from tractors, ploughs, processing machines, and other implements distributed under government-backed programmes aimed at boosting food production and strengthening value chains.
“The NIAE has pushed mechanisation with research and locally developed machines that reduce cost and increase yields for farmers across Nigeria. Being home to NCAM, Kwara has seen first-hand the impact of this progress,” he said.
The Governor added that agriculture in the state has moved beyond subsistence, noting that improved mechanisation has expanded productivity and farm capacity. He also encouraged participants to use the conference to address new realities including climate change, technology adoption, and land-use challenges.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, joined other experts and industry stakeholders at the gathering. Governor AbdulRazaq later received an Award of Excellence from the association for his efforts in repositioning agriculture in the state.
After the conference, the Governor attended the official commissioning of the Imam Gambari Ultra-modern Mosque in Ilorin. He was joined by Governor Zulum and Senator Kyari.
The event drew senior Islamic scholars, including the Chief Imam of Ilorin Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Soliu, key traditional title holders, and notable community leaders.
The Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, and APC stalwart Alhaji Abdulfatah Yahya Seriki received the dignitaries at the mosque, which was earlier commissioned by the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR.
The historic structure dates back to the early 19th century and has now been remodelled into a modern worship facility.
The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has praised Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his consistent support for local content development and his commitment to empowering indigenous contractors across the state.
In a letter to the Governor dated October 2025, the COREN Chairman in Kwara State, Engr. Bashiru Lawal, said the Governor’s deliberate policy of engaging local professionals and companies aligns with the Council’s advocacy for the promotion of indigenous expertise in project execution.
“On behalf of COREN Kwara State Office and the entire engineering community, we express our appreciation to Your Excellency for your exemplary commitment to empowering indigenous contractors through the recent award of contracts, especially the engagement of Messrs CPN for the construction of the Ojoku–Ilemona Road,” the letter read in part.
Engr. Lawal added that this approach strengthens local capacity, creates jobs, encourages technology transfer, and supports sustainable development within the state. He described the Governor’s leadership as a model worthy of emulation by other states and public institutions across Nigeria.
At a recent press briefing, the Commissioner for Works, Hon. AbdulQuawy Olododo, said that over 70 percent of construction projects in Kwara are handled by local contractors. He noted that this policy has significantly boosted the state’s economy by creating employment opportunities and retaining value within the local market.
The statement reaffirmed COREN’s commitment to working with the state government to uphold professional and ethical standards in all engineering-related projects across Kwara State.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has praised the Nigeria Police and other security agencies for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to maintaining peace and public safety.
The Governor gave the commendation on Friday at the closing ceremony of a two-week intelligence training for 142 newly recruited police constables in Ilorin, organized by the Kwara State Police Command.
Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Security, Alhaji Muyideen Aliyu, the Governor urged the new officers to approach their duties with integrity and a deep sense of responsibility to the nation.
“Distinguished constables, as you step into the field, remember the oath you swore to the people of our country. Let integrity be your compass, courage your fuel, and service your legacy,” he said.
Governor AbdulRazaq noted that the new officers had been trained in critical areas such as threat assessment, digital forensics, and community intelligence, which he described as vital to strengthening public safety. He urged them to view every assignment as a patriotic duty to protect lives and prevent crises before they happen.
The Governor also appealed to residents to continue supporting the government and security agencies in their collective efforts to maintain peace and security across the state.
In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police for Kwara State, CP Adekimi Ojo, said the training was aimed at improving professionalism, discipline, and operational efficiency among the new constables. He charged them to uphold the core values of integrity, courage, and respect for human rights in the discharge of their duties.
“You are ambassadors of the Force and the face of policing in our communities. The knowledge and skills you have gained must reflect in your daily conduct and interactions with the public,” CP Ojo said.
He commended Governor AbdulRazaq for fully sponsoring the training and for his consistent support to the State Police Command. The Commissioner also appreciated the Inspector General of Police, IGP Egbetokun Adeolu Kayode, for his leadership and commitment to professionalism within the Force.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including former Assistant Inspectors General of Police Baba Adisa Bolanta, Babatunde Ishola Babaita, Fimihan Adeoye, and Tokunbo Owolabi.
Ten creative brands based in Ondo City have joined forces to recreate the magic of the 1980s in a nostalgic visual project that celebrates African culture, fashion, and style.
From the Afrocentric hairstyles to the vintage outfits, the picture tone, and the carefully chosen locations, the collaboration captures the spirit of an era known for its bold expression and originality.
The project brings together the talents of:
Ejibunu Caroline
Mercy Ejibunu-Fadoju
Kuteyi Olusola Malcolm
Orisabunmi Olasegha
Frances O. Akinkuoye
Oyefeso Janet
Mofiyinfoluwa Oguntunsin
Fasuyi Oluwaremilekun Cyril
Peter Omikunle
Olakanye Olanrewaju The participating brands include Carolaura Hair, Helidiiam Couture, Kayomakeovers, Peteromikunle, Accessories by Apefolaji, Wajuloyaa Photography, Itbobfilms, Fiyinshoots, The BTS Factory, and Elementola Events.
Together, they revived the essence of 80s fashion and art, reminding the world of the beauty of African creativity when tradition meets modern storytelling.
The Kwara State Government, under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has reaffirmed its commitment to completing the multi-storey Oluremi Tinubu Hospital, with construction work progressing steadily in line with approved standards.
Named after Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the hospital is one of the flagship health projects initiated by the AbdulRazaq administration to expand tertiary healthcare facilities in Kwara and support the Federal Government’s broader effort to improve medical services nationwide.
During an inspection visit in August, Governor AbdulRazaq restated his government’s focus on projects that directly serve the public interest, citing ongoing investments in health, education, agriculture, and the digital economy. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting development initiatives across the states.
Over the past six years, the administration has invested heavily in the health sector through the construction, renovation, and upgrade of hospitals, supply of modern medical equipment, and installation of solar power systems across healthcare facilities in the state.
When completed, the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital will improve access to advanced medical care, ease the burden on existing hospitals, and strengthen the state’s emergency and critical-care capacity.
