… State Partners Arzikin Noma to Boost Grain Production, Curb Herder-Farmer Clashes
#KwaraRising
Kwara State has launched a large-scale farm inputs distribution program targeting 3,000 farmers in Kaiama Local Government as part of efforts to enhance food security and livestock development. The initiative, a collaboration between the state government, Arzikin Noma, and international partner IDH, focuses on sorghum and soybean cultivation to address both human consumption and animal feed needs.
At the flag-off ceremony in Apata Alaje community, Livestock Development Commissioner Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas revealed the package includes 18,000 bags of fertilizer, 18,000 liters of agrochemicals (three different types), 75 metric tons of sorghum seeds, and 100 metric tons of soybean seeds. She emphasized the program’s potential to modernize livestock farming and reduce farmer-herder conflicts by ensuring adequate animal feed supply.
“The grains production initiative directly addresses the root cause of clashes while supporting our industrialisation agenda,” Thomas stated. “This ensures agricultural products get value addition within Kwara rather than leaving as raw materials.”
The event attracted top government officials including Transportation Commissioner Hon. Aliyu Kora Sabi, who noted the project’s location would foster peace in the agrarian community. Special Adviser on Strategy Alhaji Atiku Abdulsalam described it as part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s agricultural transformation blueprint.
Private sector partners outlined their roles – Arzikin Noma CEO Adesola Adeoluwa guaranteed market access through off-takers like Olam, while IDH’s Dr. Daniel Abah emphasized creating sustainable agricultural value chains that benefit smallholder farmers.
Beneficiaries including Mrs. Asmau Muhammad and Iliasu Saka praised the intervention, pledging to maximize the inputs’ potential. The program represents Kwara’s latest move to position itself as Nigeria’s emerging agribusiness hub while resolving longstanding pastoral conflicts through innovative solutions.
Kwara State PDP has just issued a statement raising an alarm that Kwara State pilgrims in the holy land Saudi Arabia are stranded.
As a policy of the media team, we checked to see if anything is amiss, contrary to what we knew about the scheduled return of our pilgrims.
I spoke with the Ameerul Hajj and Olupo of Ajase-Ipo HRM Oba Ismail Yahya Alebiosu and the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Board. They both had a good laugh at the statement of the PDP because there is nothing as such.
Kwara has some 2,204 pilgrims this year, one of the biggest contingents from Nigeria. These pilgrims are scheduled to depart Saudi in four batches as follows: June 21st, 23rd, 25th, and 27th. This schedule was not designed by the Kwara State Government; it was designed by all the stakeholders: NAHCON, airlines, and the pilgrims’ board.
Many states of the federation still have pilgrims in the holy land. Nigeria has some 41,000 pilgrims this year; of these, only 6,951 are back, according to NAHCON figures this afternoon.
Today is June 17th. How did the story of being stranded arise?
As a reporter, I’m for a democracy that allows for free exchange of information and robust conversations on issues of shared interest. But I am not for sheer mischief and irresponsibility. They serve no good. In fact, mischief constitutes existential threats to all of us. This is why false alarm attracts stiff penalties in many societies.
“It’s only when we discover how to live with one another peacefully, governed by institutions, rules, and norms to which we mutually consent, that we can turn our attention to other vital issues,” according to Jeremy Weinstein.
I appeal to our colleagues in the media, legacy or new, to adopt a higher level of scrutiny for what they accept from anyone at all — ruling or opposition politicians. This is important for the good of all. If we allow just anything and no line is too sacred to cross, we risk psychological numbing to issues of grave significance to the public welfare or safety.
Pray, where did the PDP get the idea that Kwara pilgrims are stranded? How are they stranded? When are they expected back home? Has that time lapsed? If purveyors of fake news know that people will ask questions, they will think twice before dishing it out. I beg that we set the bar very high in our own interest.
▪︎Rafiu Ajakaye is CPS to the Governor of Kwara State
…Newly Established Institution Opens Admissions Through Change of Institution Process
#KwaraRising
The Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB) has officially listed seventeen accredited courses for the 2024/2025 academic session at Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED). Established by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the institution offers specialized programs including Business Education, Entrepreneurship, and Education and Technology. Other available courses span various disciplines such as Education Management, Guidance and Counseling, Sustainable Development, and Home Economics and Education.
Prospective students interested in science education can apply for Education and Physics, Education and Biology, Education and Chemistry, or Education and Computer Science. The university also offers Creative Arts Education, Education and English Language, Education and Yoruba, Education and History, and Electrical/Electronics Education.
KWASUED is currently accepting applications for both the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic sessions. Eligible candidates are advised to utilize the JAMB change of institution service at any accredited CBT center to select KWASUED as their first choice institution. The university emphasizes that this step is mandatory for admission consideration.
For further inquiries, candidates may contact the Director of Admissions through their institution’s Desk Officer or via the CAPS mail system. This development represents a significant milestone in Kwara State’s educational landscape, providing specialized teacher training opportunities aligned with current educational needs.
Prof. Is-haq O. Oloyede, the JAMB Registrar, confirmed the institution’s readiness to welcome its pioneer students. The establishment of KWASUED underscores the state government’s commitment to expanding access to quality teacher education in Nigeria.
…State Moves to Align Poverty Reduction Efforts With National Framework
#KwaraRising
Kwara State has initiated talks with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to strengthen social protection systems for vulnerable residents. The move came during a working visit by Social Development Commissioner Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam to Minister Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda in Abuja.
Hajia Imam explained the visit aimed to synchronize Kwara’s social interventions with federal poverty alleviation programs. “We’re bridging policy gaps and optimizing funding opportunities to deliver sustainable impact,” she stated, highlighting Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s achievements in women/youth empowerment and grassroots poverty reduction.
Minister Yilwatda praised Kwara’s inclusive governance model, particularly its community-based humanitarian approach. He pledged federal support while emphasizing the need for robust accountability systems and alignment with national development goals.
The partnership seeks to expand Kwara’s social safety nets through shared technical expertise and potential funding access. Both parties agreed to establish joint implementation teams to fast-track collaborative programs benefiting vulnerable populations.
…State-Sponsored Portal Opens June 11 for Common Entrance Exam
Kwara State has begun online registration for the 2025 Common Entrance Examination into public junior secondary schools. The fully government-sponsored exercise runs from June 11 to June 23 through the official portal: https://placement.kwarastate.gov.ng.
Education Ministry officials confirmed all registration and examination fees are fully covered by the state government, reinforcing its free education policy. Prospective pupils must register exclusively through their current primary schools, with private institutions required to obtain Quality Assurance Bureau clearance first.
Head teachers of public primary schools are undergoing mandatory training to ensure smooth implementation. The Ministry warned against any illegal charges to parents, stating violators will face disciplinary action under public service regulations.
While the examination date will be announced later, parents and school administrators are urged to complete registrations before the June 23 deadline. Support is available via SMS/WhatsApp (07068977077) or email (c2c@kwarastate.gov.ng).
This initiative advances Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to accessible education across Kwara.
…Governor Replaces Stolen $500 Allowances, Backs CBN Card System
The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board confirmed elderly pilgrims were defrauded of their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in Medina, Saudi Arabia. This follows a viral video showing pilgrims claiming they received five $1 bills instead of $500.
Board investigations revealed each pilgrim originally collected five authentic $100 bills in Nigeria under Directorate of State Security supervision. Victims signed receipts after counting cash alongside officials. The fraud occurred later in Medina when vulnerable pilgrims sought currency exchange help from strangers who swapped $100 notes for $1 bills.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has provided $500 to each affected pilgrim to offset losses. During a separate visit to pilgrims in Mecca, he also gave additional financial support for local expenses. The Board expressed gratitude for these interventions.
With similar fraud reported nationwide, the Board endorsed the Central Bank of Nigeria’s proposal to replace cash BTA with preloaded debit cards. This system aims to prevent theft, enhance transparency, and protect elderly pilgrims.
Investigations continue to identify the perpetrators. The Board condemned the exploitation of pilgrims and requested public assistance for justice.
… Road Upgrade to Temporarily Affect Traffic Flow in Ilorin Metropolis
The Kwara State Government has announced plans for partial closure of the Post Office to Challenge section of Muritala Mohammed Way beginning Sunday, June 15, 2025. The temporary measure will enable asphalt laying as part of ongoing road rehabilitation works aimed at improving the critical transport artery.
Commissioner for Works Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo explained that while the road will remain accessible to motorists, traffic diversions will be implemented to facilitate construction activities. He advised road users to expect some delays and exercise patience while navigating the area, emphasizing the importance of obeying traffic officials deployed to manage the flow of vehicles.
“We sincerely regret any inconvenience this may cause residents and commuters,” Engr. Olododo stated. “This infrastructure upgrade forms a crucial part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s urban renewal agenda, designed to enhance the road’s economic value and improve connectivity across the state capital.”
The Ministry has assured the public that all necessary measures have been put in place to minimize disruptions during the construction period. Safety remains a top priority, with adequate signage and traffic control personnel deployed to guide motorists. The government has pledged to complete the project efficiently while maintaining quality standards.
Motorists are strongly advised to plan their routes accordingly, allow extra travel time, and follow all traffic directives. The rehabilitation works form part of broader infrastructure upgrades being implemented across Ilorin metropolis, with similar projects scheduled for other major roads in the coming months.
The government expressed appreciation for residents’ understanding and cooperation as it delivers these critical infrastructure improvements that will ultimately benefit all road users. The Ministry of Works will provide regular updates on project progress through its official communication channels.
Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi attributed falling food prices in Kwara to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s farming investments. He spoke at the University of Ilorin’s 9th Faculty of Agriculture Lecture themed “Agriculture and National Security.”
Alabi cited increased farmer support, counterpart funding, and strategic partnerships as key factors. He noted dry season farming initiatives are expanding to ensure year-round food supply, stabilize prices, and boost income. These efforts aim to optimize irrigation infrastructure and enhance food security.
Linking agriculture to national stability, Alabi called it a tool for economic growth and peace building. He highlighted Kwara’s peaceful environment as attracting agribusiness investments.
Keynote speaker Major-General Bello Alhaji Tsoho connected agriculture to national defense. The military officer and UniIlorin agriculture graduate stressed food insecurity could trigger unrest without policy action. “National security extends beyond military might to include food systems,” he stated, urging treatment of agriculture as a security priority.
The event was hosted by Vice Chancellor Prof. Wahab Egbewole and Faculty Dean Prof. Oluyemisi Fawole.
Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq congratulated Nigerians on Democracy Day. He issued the statement on behalf of all state governors.
AbdulRazaq described June 12 as a watershed in national history. He stated the NGF joins President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other stakeholders in honoring heroes and heroines of the democratic struggle.
The Kwara Governor acknowledged appreciable progress during 26 years of unbroken democracy. He noted Nigeria still faces challenges like any nation. The Forum commits to leveraging constructive dialogue and democratic mechanisms for better outcomes.
AbdulRazaq pledged governors will work with the Federal Government, civic organizations, and partners to widen the democratic space. The goal is fostering sustainable peace and inclusive prosperity.
When I made a condolence post on Tuesday asking for the update about a reported tragic incident at Bukola Saraki’s residence over the weekend, some misguided and headless mob came to my page to brand it as false and misleading.
But the last has not been heard about the parallel durbar former senate president Bukola Saraki held at his GRA Ilorin residence on Sunday. Earlier condemned by stakeholders in several quarters for being an act of disrespect and contempt of the highest order for Emir of Ilorin Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR and the entire people of Ilorin Emirate, reports have also emerged about how it left a trail of blood and anguish in the life of a poor family.
Since I have been challenged to come up with details, some even going ahead to threaten my family, it was a matter of time before they got exposed for this fraud. One death has now been confirmed.
The victim, Hajia Roheemat Aduke Atanda, a middle-aged woman, is the wife of former PDP chairman of Abeemi/Itamerin joint zone. The husband, Mallam Jimoh Atanda, popularly known as Baba Mufu, died barely three months ago.
They lived in Olosan Compound at Itamerin.
The wife reportedly died in tragic circumstances in Bukola Saraki’s residence during the contemptuous and haphazardly planned ‘Temu Durbar’ or ‘Ojude Saraki’ celebrations held in GRA on Sunday.
Several eyewitness accounts allegged that it was a case of poor safety and crowd control which led to a brief stampede.
The victim left behind a child. As a result of this incident, the poor child has now been turned into an orphan.
She was buried yesterday amidst sobbing and sadness. The entire Ile Olosan compound and the community are in mourning over the sad incident.
Over 48 hours after the incident, neither Bukola Saraki nor Kwara PDP has acknowledged this development. It is even more insensitive that PDP went ahead to release a statement today commending Saraki for the jamboree, but there was not a word of condolence for the victim and her family.
It is surprising and shocking that both Saraki and the leaders of the PDP would even try to cover the incident up totally. Instead of showing empathy and accountability, party chieftains have resorted to threatening family members and neighbours from disclosing details of the victim and the circumstances of death in order to protect the image of their leader.
Most wickedly, they also instructed some of their members to tell anyone inquiring that the incident happened at the parallel Saraki-Durbar, in order to divert attention, instead of coming clean that it was another tragedy at the backyard of the Sarakis during the odd ‘Ojude Saraki’ jamboree. This goes to give a bad name to Durbar2025, organised by Engr Yahaya Alapansapa-led committee under the auspices of Emir of Ilorin Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, which went smooth and free without hassle. I hope that the committee sees this and take urgent action to save their reputation which may be sullied by Saraki and his followers before a global audience because of their selfish political interest.
When people celebrate Durbar next year, the family members of the victim will now be using the day as a remembrance of a daughter, mother, and grandmother, whose death could have been avoided.
Some have since said this is another political sacrifice. It somewhat rehashed the old memory of annual sallah ‘ritual’ due to stampede linked to the former senate president and his dynasty.
According to Premium Times, no less than 47 lives were lost between 2010 and 2013 while queuing up for food and pittance from the former Governor.
These were people with husbands, children, friends and extended family. The late wife of the former PDP zonal chairman has now joined the list.
At what point would this gale of avoidable tragedy stop?
I am urging the relevant government agencies, especially the security, to look into the issues carefully with a view to upholding justice and preventing future occurrence in the politician’s residence.
Now, members of PDP should advise Saraki to reach out personally to the poor family with support and empathy, and own up to the incident as decent people will do instead of the reports of threats flying around. He can no longer ignore them just because he wants to protect his image. The public is fully aware. If he cannot do this to reward the sacrifices of the late husband and wife, he should at least consider the future of the teenager the good woman left behind. They should also stop this criminal and wicked act henceforth. Only Allah giveth and taketh lives. But it is terrible threatening a grieving family just to cover the irresponsibility of the one leader they trusted. It is cowardice.
Abdullateef is Senior Special Assistant on Communication to the Governor
