Kwara Rising

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  • Kwara Govt Flags Off Free Oral Health Outreach

    Kwara Govt Flags Off Free Oral Health Outreach

    …Reaffirms Commitment to Holistic Wellbeing

    The Kwara State Government has restated its strong commitment to promoting oral health as a key component of general wellbeing, urging residents to embrace preventive care and regular dental check-ups.

    This was made known by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, during the opening of a three-day free oral health outreach organised by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with Pharma Decko PLC at the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Ilorin.

    Represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr. Oluwatosin Fakayode, the Commissioner said oral health is often neglected despite being foundational to overall health.

    “Oral health is the cornerstone of overall health, yet it is often neglected. Poor oral hygiene contributes to several non-communicable diseases. Its effects may be gradual but often become severe if left unaddressed. That’s why this outreach is timely and essential,” El-Imam said.

    She commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his sustained investments in the health sector, including the renovation and equipping of the state’s dental clinic, which she described as a major step forward in improving access to dental care.

    The Commissioner urged Kwarans to take full advantage of the outreach by getting free dental checks, treatments, and professional advice on oral hygiene.

    Also speaking, the Managing Director of Pharma Decko PLC, Mr. Ishola Olukayode, praised the Kwara State Government and Ministry of Health for their swift support.

    “Despite the short notice, the Ministry gave us overwhelming support. Pharma Decko PLC is committed to supporting oral health in Nigeria. Unfortunately, due to lack of awareness, many people still use harmful substances on their teeth, risking their general health,” he noted.

    Mr. Olukayode emphasized that oral care involves more than just daily brushing. He advocated for regular professional check-ups and increased public sensitization to tackle deep-rooted misconceptions and risky practices.

    During an oral health education session at the event, Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr. Kasali Ajao, revealed that brushing alone addresses only about 40% of oral health needs. He recommended scaling and polishing at least twice a yearfor proper dental care.

    “Comprehensive oral hygiene requires professional care, not just daily brushing,” he added.

    The free oral health outreach continues until Thursday at the Dental Unit of KWASUTH, offering residents free diagnoses and treatments, including scaling, polishing, and oral health consultations.

    Residents are encouraged to turn out in large numbers and use the opportunity to take proactive steps towards better oral and overall health.

  • Kwara Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Timely Salary and Pension Payments

    Kwara Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Timely Salary and Pension Payments

    …Urges Update of Invalid Records

    The Kwara State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to the timely, transparent, and full payment of salaries and pensions, emphasizing that all civil servants and retirees with valid registration details have been duly paid up to May 2025.

    This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, in a statement issued in Ilorin. She explained that the disbursements were made through the implementation of the State Social Identity Database (SSID) verification process — a reform that has significantly improved the accuracy and transparency of salary and pension administration.

    Dr. Nuru disclosed that 97% of state workers with valid records under the Kwara State Residents Registration Agency (KWASRRA) database have received their salaries for May. The remaining 3%, she said, were unpaid due to issues such as invalid registration, name mismatches, or failure to complete the mandatory registration process.

    “Likewise, 81.2% of state pensioners with valid KWASRRA registrations have been verified and paid. However, approximately 17% remain on hold due to non-participation in physical verification or failure to register, while 1.8% face issues with invalid SSID numbers or are untraceable due to relocation abroad or other factors, including possible deaths,” she added.

    At the local government level, including the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Nuru said 95% of workers have received payment, while 5% have not, owing to errors such as incorrect Personnel Staff Numbers (PSN), invalid SSID or National Identification Numbers (NIN), and non-registration with KWASRRA.

    She noted that 76.7% of verified local government pensioners have also been paid their May pensions. The outstanding 23.3% remain unpaid due to similar registration and verification issues.

    The Commissioner urged affected individuals to update their records without delay. “KWASRRA has introduced a simple SMS-based process for pensioners to lodge complaints and resolve payment issues without needing to visit offices physically,” she said.

    Affected pensioners are encouraged to send an SMS to 08032059986 with the following details:
    •⁠ ⁠Full Name
    •⁠ ⁠Verification Number
    •⁠ ⁠Pension Number
    •⁠ ⁠Account Number and Bank Name
    •⁠ ⁠NIN
    •⁠ ⁠KWASRRA SSID Number

    Pensioners who have lost their SSID can retrieve it online via the KWASRRA website: https://www.kwasrra.ng/register/validate.

    Dr. Nuru assured the public that the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration remains fully committed to protecting public funds while ensuring that workers and retirees are not denied their entitlements.

    She also advised media outlets to cross-check claims before publication to prevent misinformation. “It’s important that platforms are not used by partisan actors to spread mischief or cause public disaffection,” she said.

  • Kwara Governor Commended for Transforming Tertiary Education, Clearing Salary Arrears and Reviving Institutions

    Kwara Governor Commended for Transforming Tertiary Education, Clearing Salary Arrears and Reviving Institutions

    …Commissioner Hails AbdulRazaq’s Commitment as NCCE Concludes Accreditation Visit to Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has been widely commended for his bold reforms and sustained investments in the education sector, particularly in revitalizing the state’s tertiary institutions.

    The accolades were led by the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, during a debriefing session with the accreditation team from the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), who visited the Kwara State College of Education (KWCOED), Ilorin, for the 2025 accreditation exercise of the National Certificate in Education (NCE) programme.

    Describing the exercise as a major milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to reposition higher education in the state, the Commissioner praised Governor AbdulRazaq for rescuing the sector from near collapse. She revealed that the current administration had inherited a system plagued by neglect, including a seven-month salary backlog and several unaccredited programmes.

    “Governor AbdulRazaq not only cleared the backlog but also paid over one billion naira owed to staff by the previous administration,” Hajia Modibbo Kawu stated. “The rot we met was unimaginable. What the Governor has done in a few years shows strong leadership and a sincere passion for the development of education. He is truly a listening and responsible leader.”

    The Commissioner also commended the NCCE team for their professional and thorough assessment of the college, adding that their work gives hope to the future of the country. “You didn’t just point out our strengths but also gave a constructive and honest review of our challenges. It’s a reminder that integrity and professionalism still thrive in Nigeria,” she said.

    She disclosed that a special task team was inaugurated in December to address key institutional challenges and that many of its recommendations are already being implemented.

    Also speaking, the Acting Provost of the College, Dr. Ayinde Shehu Jawondo, expressed gratitude to the Governor for rescuing the institution from total collapse. “We were at the brink, but His Excellency’s intervention changed everything. If you had come earlier, it would have been a tragic picture,” he told the visiting team.

    The Head of the NCCE accreditation team, Mrs. Chibuzor Ekuwonye, commended the college’s technical strength but clarified that their report remains provisional until the NCCE management gives final approval. She advised the college leadership to work on addressing areas of concern, especially in enhancing the learning environment.

    A team member, Dr. Otuniyi, explained that their review covered both Institutional and Programme Accreditation, including leadership quality, administrative efficiency, and student support services. He emphasized the need for urgent improvements in the Directorate of Quality Assurance.

    In his closing remarks, Dr. Ben Udoh, another member of the team, thanked the Kwara State Government for its investments in the institution and praised the college’s management for their hospitality and openness during the visit.

  • Ilorin Innovation Hub Featured on CNN in June Broadcast Lineup

    Ilorin Innovation Hub Featured on CNN in June Broadcast Lineup

    …Global Spotlight to show Kwara’s Growing Role in Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem

    #KwaraRising

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub has earned international recognition with a series of scheduled features on CNN throughout June, spotlighting its mission to drive technological advancement and entrepreneurship in Kwara State.

    According to a statement from the Hub, the CNN segments will explore the impact of its initiatives, the vision behind its establishment, and how it is positioning Ilorin and Kwara State as emerging centers of innovation in Africa.

    The broadcasts will air across various CNN programs including CNN This Morning, Early Start, and CNN News Central. Viewers are encouraged to tune in at the following times (WAT, UTC+01:00):

    • Friday, June 6 – CNN This Morning – 12:59 PM
    • Monday, June 9 – Early Start – 11:59 AM
    • Tuesday, June 10 – CNN News Central – 1:29 PM
    • Wednesday, June 11 – CNN This Morning – 12:59 PM
    • Thursday, June 12 – Early Start – 11:59 AM

    This CNN spotlight marks a significant milestone for the Ilorin Innovation Hub, which continues to play a transformative role in building a vibrant tech ecosystem, supporting startups, and preparing young people for the digital economy.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Urges Faith and Unity as Kwarans Celebrate Eid-el-Adha

    Governor AbdulRazaq Urges Faith and Unity as Kwarans Celebrate Eid-el-Adha

    …Says the Festival Calls for Devotion to God and Commitment to Nigeria’s Progress

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has congratulated the people of the state, particularly the Muslim community, on the occasion of Eid-el-Adha, urging them to remain faithful to God and committed to the unity and development of Nigeria.

    In a goodwill message to mark the Eid, which begins on Friday, Dhul-Hijjah 10, 1446 A.H., the Governor also extended warm felicitations to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.

    Governor AbdulRazaq described the festival as a celebration of sacrifice, submission, and fulfillment of divine promises, drawing inspiration from the lives of Prophets Ibrahim and Muhammad (peace be upon them).

    “As we celebrate this sacred festival, I urge everyone to remain steadfast in their faith in God and in our shared commitment to the Nigerian project,” the Governor said. “Let us continue to promote peaceful coexistence, support sustainable development efforts, and reject anything that undermines the growth and unity of Nigeria, our fatherland.”

    He called on citizens to use the period of celebration to reflect on the values of sacrifice and obedience, and to show love and compassion to others, especially the less privileged.

    Governor AbdulRazaq also encouraged continued support for President Bola Tinubu and his own administration in their shared quest to build a better country.

    “I wish everyone a blessed Eid and many more years of good health and happiness,” he added.

  • Ilorin Innovation Hub Partners with Paystack to Accelerate Kwara Startup Growth

    Ilorin Innovation Hub Partners with Paystack to Accelerate Kwara Startup Growth

    …Strategic Deal Grants Local Entrepreneurs Priority Access to Payment Tech, Global Perks, and Scaling Resources

    #KwaraRising

                                                                                                  The Ilorin Innovation Hub (IIH) announced today a landmark partnership with Paystack for Startups, Africa’s leading payment technology platform. This collaboration aims to empower Kwara State’s startups and small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) by providing exclusive access to enterprise-grade financial tools and global growth resources.

    Through this agreement, IIH-affiliated ventures will receive priority onboarding and dedicated support from Paystack’s team, along with the Paystack Startup Bundle featuring credits and perks from partners including AWS, Stripe, and Intercom. Eligible businesses gain early access to beta features, product launches, and invite-only events, while also qualifying for customizable payment processing rates that scale with their growth. Additionally, participants obtain full usage rights to Paystack’s comprehensive suite for payments, disbursements, and real-time business analytics.

    “This partnership eliminates payment friction so our founders can focus on innovation,” stated IIH leadership. “With Paystack’s infrastructure powering over 70,000 businesses across Africa, we’re advancing Kwara’s position as a premier technology and entrepreneurship destination in Nigeria.”

    Startups within the IIH ecosystem may apply immediately by submitting company details via email to paystack@iih.ng.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Performs Umrah, Offers Prayers for Nigeria and Kwara

    Governor AbdulRazaq Performs Umrah, Offers Prayers for Nigeria and Kwara

    …Says Administration Working Tirelessly for Peace, Prosperity and Security

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has performed the Umrah pilgrimage in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, ahead of the 2025 Hajj, offering prayers for the peace, unity, and progress of Nigeria and Kwara State.

    The Governor, who is also the chairman,Nigerian Governors Forum had earlier spent time in the holy city of Medina, described the experience of standing at the Ka’abah as deeply humbling. In a statement released from the holy land, he prayed for the acceptance of all acts of worship and supplications by pilgrims.

    “I ask that Allah accept our Hajj as an act of ibaadah and grant our humble supplications for our nation, Nigeria, our state, Kwara, and our families,” the Governor said.

    He also used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to sustainable governance, noting that efforts continue both in the open and behind the scenes to address various developmental challenges.

    “As our administration works with different stakeholders to tackle issues of governance, I pray that Allah blesses our modest human efforts and investments day and night for sustainable peace, prosperity, and security of our people and our communities,” he added.

  • Kwara Inaugurates Youth Technical Working Committee to Boost Innovation and Empowerment

    Kwara Inaugurates Youth Technical Working Committee to Boost Innovation and Empowerment

    …New Committee to Drive Youth-Centric Solutions Across the State

    #KwaraRising

    To secure a brighter future for young people, the Kwara State Ministry of Youth Development has inaugurated the Kwara State Youth Technical Working Committee. The initiative reflects the government’s growing focus on empowering youths through innovation, skills development, and targeted support.

    The inauguration ceremony was led by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Ambassador Ndanusa Usman Shehu, who commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for consistently supporting youth initiatives and building an environment that enables young people to thrive.

    The Commissioner said the committee will serve as a collaborative platform to boost mentorship, technical training, and vocational capacity for young people across the state. He noted that this effort builds on existing government programs like the Youth Employment and Empowerment Generation Scheme and the International Vocational, Entrepreneurship and Technical College.

    He emphasized the importance of identifying community-specific challenges and designing strategic responses. According to him, the committee’s work will focus on implementing practical and forward-thinking solutions that make a tangible difference in the lives of Kwara’s youth.

    Ambassador Shehu urged committee members to remain proactive, resilient, and innovative in discharging their responsibilities.

    Also speaking at the event, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, encouraged members to be exemplary representatives of their communities. He assured them that the government will continue to recognize and support efforts that promote youth development and technological advancement.

    In his acceptance remarks, Chairman of the committee, Mr Abdulkareem Abdulkareem, thanked the Governor on behalf of the members and pledged their commitment to building a tech-driven and prosperous future for the state’s youth.

    Other attendees at the ceremony included the Special Assistant on Special Needs, Hon. Soliu Habeeb Baba Oloye; Special Assistant on Students Affairs, Hon. Wasiu Onidugbe; Director of Planning, Finance, and Supply, Dr. Funmilola Adenike Ajide; Director of Youth, Alhaji Abdulsalam Akeem; Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter, Comrade Ali Nasiru; as well as members of the newly inaugurated committee.

  • Kwara Government Reaffirms Commitment to Regulating Electrical Sector 

    Kwara Government Reaffirms Commitment to Regulating Electrical Sector 

    …Engages Artisans on Registration and Standards

    The Kwara State Government, through the Ministry of Energy, has restated its commitment to partnering with artisans in the electrical sector to enhance the quality of goods and services delivered to residents. The move also aims to ensure public safety and maintain a detailed database of practitioners operating across the State.

    This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Energy, Engr. AbdulAzeez Kola AbdulGaniy, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olaitan Afolabi, during a follow-up meeting with key stakeholders from the State’s artisan community. The engagement, held on Tuesday at the Ministry’s Conference Room, served as a continuation of efforts initiated earlier in January 2025 to strengthen collaboration and improve oversight of the electrical sector.

    Mr. Afolabi emphasized the importance of proper registration and regulation of electrical artisans, which he said is essential to promoting professionalism, enhancing service quality, and safeguarding lives and property. He noted that the initiative is rooted in the Kwara State Artisan Registration Law of 2010, which mandates the Ministry to register and regulate the operations of electrical professionals. These include electricians, electrical technicians, vendors of electrical poles and components, and repair specialists handling electronics such as radios, televisions, phones, and satellite devices.

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the Kwara State Artisan Registration Committee, Engr. Nurudeen Alao, urged all practitioners to cooperate fully by registering with the appropriate authorities. He explained that certificates of registration will be issued upon completion of the necessary documentation and payment, adding that certification is not only a legal requirement but also a means of attaining professional recognition. He stressed that registration opens access to government-backed opportunities, including training programmes and support initiatives that can help artisans scale their craft.

    Also addressing the gathering, the Desk Officer from the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Abdullahi AbdulRazaq, advised artisans to make all payments directly into the official KWIRS account. He cautioned against making payments into any individual’s personal account to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the process.

    The meeting was attended by several key figures from the artisan community, including Mr. Lateef Araoye, Chief Executive Officer of A.O Multipurpose Ltd; Umejesi Romester, who represented the Chairman of the Kwara Igbo Traders Association; Elder Osasona, Vice Chairman of the Licensed Electrical Contractors Association of Nigeria (LECAN); Mr. Oladigbo Moses, State Secretary of LECAN; Muhammed Musa, Chairman of the Kwara State Association of Phone Technicians, Challenge Branch; and Ayuba Kabir Funsho, Vice Chairman of the Kwara State Association of Phone and Computer Accessories Dealers, Challenge Branch.

    The Ministry reaffirmed its readiness to continue engaging artisans across the State and called on all relevant stakeholders to support this initiative for the advancement of the electrical sector and the overall well-being of the public.

  • Kwara Trains 50 Frontline Health Workers to Improve Maternal and Neonatal Care

    Kwara Trains 50 Frontline Health Workers to Improve Maternal and Neonatal Care

    …State Government Partners UNICEF for Intensive 10-Day Capacity Building on Emergency Obstetrics and Newborn Care

    #KwaraRising

    In a strategic effort to further reduce maternal and neonatal mortality rates across Kwara State, the government has launched a 10-day intensive training for 50 frontline healthcare workers across all 16 Local Government Areas. The training, which began on Monday, May 26, 2025, is being organized by the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency with support from UNICEF and other development partners.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony held at Peace Hotel and Suites, Tanke, Ilorin, the Executive Secretary of the Agency, Prof. Nusirat Elelu, emphasized that the initiative is part of the state government’s broader commitment to improving the quality of maternal and child health services.

    “This is the second time we are organizing this specialized training on Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC), and the impact has been remarkable,” Prof. Elelu stated. “The first round not only doubled the number of safe deliveries in our primary healthcare centres, but also significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality. Kwara is now one of the safest places in the country to give birth.”

    Prof. Elelu acknowledged the visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, highlighting his recent recruitment of 105 additional frontline health workers and his commitment to revitalizing primary healthcare infrastructure across the state. She noted that each geopolitical zone now has at least one functional, well-staffed PHC, thanks to the Governor’s “revolutionary investments in healthcare.”

    She also commended the facilitators and encouraged the trainees to approach the program with utmost seriousness, stressing the critical role they play in managing complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

    Also speaking at the event, Dr. Michael Oguntoye, Director of Primary Health Care Systems, noted that the training is designed to enhance the capacity of available health workers to respond to the needs of local communities. “With this initiative, we are preparing our workforce to reduce preventable deaths and meet global health targets,” he said.

    The Lead Facilitator, Prof. Hadijat Raji of the University of Ilorin’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, stressed the urgent need for capacity building in maternal and newborn care. “Despite progress, maternal and neonatal deaths in Nigeria remain unacceptably high, mostly due to delays in care,” she said. “This training will equip participants with the skills to identify and respond to life-threatening complications quickly and effectively.”

    Prof. Raji praised the Kwara State Government, UNICEF, and all supporting stakeholders for making the training possible, urging participants not only to apply what they’ve learned but also to serve as mentors and advocates within their healthcare facilities.

    The training is expected to conclude on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, with a renewed pool of well-trained, frontline health workers ready to scale impact across the state’s health system, especially at the grassroots level.