…State Intensifies Flood Prevention Measures as NiMET Predicts Heavy Storms
The Kwara State Government has issued an urgent public alert following Nigeria Meteorological Agency’s (NiMET) forecast of heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms starting Wednesday, July 30. Director of Public Orientation Agboola Olarewaju specifically advised residents living near riverbanks and flood-prone areas to relocate to higher ground immediately to prevent potential loss of lives and property.
The warning comes as the state government completes emergency dredging of Asa River and conducts comprehensive drainage clearance across Ilorin metropolis. Residents are strongly cautioned to limit outdoor movement during rainfall periods and to unplug electrical appliances when away from homes to prevent thunderstorm-related damage.
The administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized its ongoing commitment to citizen safety through proactive environmental management, while calling on residents to complement government efforts by maintaining clean drainage channels and heeding weather advisories. Motorists and market traders are particularly urged to exercise extreme caution during the forecasted severe weather period.
…Modern multistorey KwaraLEARN school in Ilorin to set new standard for learning facilities
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, is pushing ahead with his plan to upgrade education across the state through modern infrastructure, recruitment of qualified teachers and regular payment of salaries.
One of the key projects under this plan is the ongoing construction of a multistorey prototype KwaraLEARN school at Adeta Primary School in Ilorin. The project, which is being undertaken by the AbdulRazaq administration, is designed to provide pupils with a more conducive learning environment and modern educational tools.
The new Adeta Primary School will have a headmaster’s office, a deputy headmaster’s office and a large administrative office. It will also include a sickbay to attend to emergencies and the welfare of pupils.
The facility will accommodate 15 classrooms for pre-primary pupils, another 15 classrooms for lower primary classes from Primary 1 to 3, and 15 more classrooms for upper primary pupils from Primary 4 to 6.
In addition to regular classrooms, the school will have two science laboratories to encourage practical learning, two large art rooms, two staff rooms and a large library. There will also be two ICT laboratories to ensure that children are exposed to digital literacy from an early stage. A generous outdoor play area will form part of the school design alongside adequate toilets and supporting facilities.
According to the state government, the new school will be among the best of its kind in the North Central region and across the country when completed. It is part of the administration’s broader effort to give children in Kwara State better access to quality education and improved learning facilities.
…Says Kwara-born athlete is an inspiration to a new generation
Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has congratulated Mariam Eniola Bolaji for winning gold at the 2025 British and Irish Para-Badminton International Tournament, describing the achievement as another milestone in her remarkable career.
“I join sports lovers around the world to celebrate the legendary para-badminton talent Mariam Eniola Bolaji on yet another incredible feat on the global stage as she emerged global champion (gold medalist) at the just concluded British and Irish Para-Badminton International Tournament 2025,” the Governor said in a statement.
He praised the Kwara-born athlete for her determination, hard work and courage, noting that her consistent success is establishing her as one of the best para-athletes in the world.
“Eniola stands as an inspiration to our younger generation that there is no limit to what they can achieve in life. Her journey continues to inspire millions,” he said.
AbdulRazaq urged her to remain focused and ambitious, assuring her of the state government’s support as she pursues even greater achievements in the years ahead. He recalled that his administration recently named a sporting facility after her in recognition of her outstanding contributions.
“Thank you for making Africa, Nigeria and Kwara proud once again, Eniola,” the Governor added.
…AbdulRazaq Approves N5.25m Emergency Fund After Road Accident
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has intervened to support 13 indigent students from Kwara studying at Usman Dan Fodio University Sokoto (UDUS) who were seriously injured in a road accident. The Governor immediately released N5.25 million to cover urgent medical treatments after receiving details of their conditions.
The students, involved in a crash along the Yauri-Sokoto Expressway in Kebbi State that claimed their driver’s life, are being treated at UDUS Teaching Hospital. Eight require emergency orthopedic surgeries for bone fractures, while five need various levels of medical care.
Through his Special Assistant on Students Affairs Hon. Wasiu Onidugbe, Governor AbdulRazaq conveyed his sympathies and prayers for their full recovery. “His Excellency has directed that all necessary medical interventions be provided without delay to ensure these young Kwarans regain their health,” Onidugbe stated.
The Governor’s intervention continues his administration’s tradition of supporting citizens in distress, particularly students pursuing education across Nigeria. The funds will cover diagnostic tests, scans, and prescribed treatments as outlined by hospital authorities.
…Security Forces Neutralize Threats and Rescue Victims in Major Operation
#KwaraRising
A robust security campaign in Kwara State has restored calm to Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas, with the capture of a key criminal figure, Tambaya, and several of his associates. The operation, targeting lawbreakers responsible for recent disturbances, has significantly reduced threats in the region.
Authorities confirmed that over 15 individuals, including Tambaya, a central figure in a violent assault on security personnel and local vigilantes in Gada, Lafiagi, were detained during the crackdown. In one confrontation, Tambaya and eight others were apprehended, while several members of his gang were neutralized during exchanges with security forces. The operation also led to the rescue of two kidnapped individuals and the recovery of N11 million, believed to be proceeds from criminal activities.
The initiative, driven by the Kwara State government in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, state security leaders, and local vigilante groups, underscores a determined effort to dismantle criminal networks. The successful raids have bolstered safety and stability, allowing residents to resume normal activities with renewed confidence.
…State’s Strategic Communication Gains National Recognition Under Governor AbdulRazaq’s Administration
Kwara State’s Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, has once again been named one of Nigeria’s most influential public relations professionals, securing a spot on the prestigious 2025 PR Power List compiled by GLG Communications and The Guardian Newspaper. This marks her second consecutive year receiving this national recognition, underscoring Kwara’s growing reputation for excellence in strategic government communication under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s leadership.
The annual list identifies 50 top-tier PR and communication leaders across Nigeria who are driving transformation in their respective fields. Hon. Olukoju was selected in the distinguished “Changemakers” category, which honors professionals actively disrupting norms and pushing boundaries through innovative campaigns, strategic thinking, and measurable impact. The recognition specifically acknowledges her work in elevating Kwara State’s public communication framework and implementing creative solutions to complex information challenges.
In her response, Commissioner Olukoju redirected the accolade to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, describing him as the visionary behind Kwara’s communication successes. “This honor truly belongs to His Excellency, who has created an enabling environment for professional excellence and innovation in public communication,” she stated. “His administration’s commitment to transparency and strategic engagement has transformed how Kwara connects with its citizens and the nation.”
The selection process evaluated professionals across four categories: Rising Voices, Changemakers, Community Impact, and Fourth Estate. Hon. Olukoju’s inclusion places her among an elite group of strategic communicators shaping the future of Nigeria’s PR landscape.
Alhaji Salau Jimoh, Director of Information Services, praised the Commissioner’s achievement as well-deserved recognition of her contributions. “Hon. Olukoju has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and creativity in her role,” he remarked. “Her leadership has significantly raised the bar for public sector communication in Kwara State.”
This latest honor reinforces Kwara’s emergence as a model for effective government communication, with the state’s innovative approaches to public engagement, crisis management, and digital transformation earning national attention. Observers note that the recognition reflects Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s broader commitment to institutionalizing professional excellence across all sectors of the state’s governance.
…State Celebrates National Sports Festival Medalists with Cash Rewards
#KwaraRising
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq hosted and rewarded the state’s 2024 National Sports Festival medalists during a ceremony at the Ilorin Banquet Hall on Friday. Gold medalists received N1 million each, silver medalists N500,000, and bronze winners N300,000, with coaching staff also receiving financial recognition.
The state’s contingent secured six gold, 11 silver, and 12 bronze medals at the Abeokuta-hosted tournament. Governor AbdulRazaq praised the athletes as “heroes” whose achievements brought honor to Kwara, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to sports development.
In a landmark announcement, the Governor revealed the settlement of a N201 million sign-on fee debt owed to Kwara United FC players and coaches for 16 years. “This underscores our commitment to athlete welfare,” AbdulRazaq stated, highlighting recent infrastructure upgrades including an Olympic-sized swimming pool and continental-standard squash courts.
Sports Commission Chairman Bola Magaji credited the achievements to the Governor’s support, noting increased international representation for Kwara athletes. Former Sports Commissioner Hameed Adio commended the administration’s dual focus on sports and education.
The event was attended by sports administrators, local government officials, and SWAN Chairman Ismail Ayodeji, who urged hosting Kwara United’s continental matches in Ilorin to boost local morale and economy.
… Joint Task Force Moves Detainees to Abuja for Interrogation
Kwara State has launched a major security offensive across border communities, resulting in the arrest of over 20 suspects linked to arms trafficking and criminal networks. The operation, coordinated with the Office of the National Security Adviser, involves nearly 400 special operatives focusing on Ifelodun, Edu, and Patigi Local Government Areas.
Security sources confirmed that ten high-value detainees have been transferred to Abuja along with recovered ammunition, while the operation has already secured the release of several kidnap victims in Babanla and surrounding areas. The crackdown implements Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s recent pledge to eliminate criminal hideouts in state forests.
Authorities have established cross-border coordination with Kogi and Niger states to prevent suspect movement. “Eruku axis is on complete lockdown, and all exit routes are being monitored,” revealed a government official involved in the operation.
Residents are urged to report suspicious activities via emergency security lines as operations expand to other identified hotspots. The measures follow increasing security breaches in Kwara’s northern agricultural communities.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a two-phase Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) for 2025. Online pre-registration opens August 18 via http://cvr.inecnigeria.org, while in-person registration begins August 25 at all INEC Local Government offices nationwide.
Physical registration will operate Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at designated centers. The commission urges all eligible Nigerians, particularly first-time voters and those needing updates, to participate in the exercise.
Voter enrollment remains mandatory for participation in future elections. INEC provides multiple support channels including the hotline 0700-CALL-INEC (0700-2255-4632), SMS shortcode 4632, and dedicated phone lines 09050858629, 09050858675, and 09050858649.
Email inquiries can be directed to Iccc@inecnigeria.org, with additional resources available on INEC’s official websites. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to “consolidating Nigeria’s democracy” through inclusive voter access.
… AbdulRazaq meets top military commanders in latest push to fortify Kwara against criminal elements
#KwaraRising
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq convened a high-level security meeting with senior Nigerian Army officers on Friday as part of ongoing efforts to bolster safety across the state. The closed-door session at Ahmadu Bello House in Ilorin brought together Brigadier General Daniel Dieke and three other top military commanders to review security operations.
This marks the governor’s second strategic engagement with security chiefs in three months, following his April meeting with Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede. The discussions focused on enhancing inter-agency coordination and maintaining Kwara’s status as a “hostile environment for non-state actors,” according to a government statement.
The Nigerian Army has acknowledged the governor’s consistent support, including recent donations of operational vehicles and motorcycles to the 22 Armoured Brigade. Security sources indicate the latest talks prioritized intelligence-sharing mechanisms and rapid response strategies for Kwara’s border communities.
“Kwara remains committed to proactive security investments that protect lives and livelihoods,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated after the meeting. The administration’s #SaferKwara initiative has reportedly reduced criminal incidents by 37% since 2023 through strengthened community policing and technology-aided surveillance.
Military representatives reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate with civil authorities, particularly in monitoring flashpoint areas along Kwara’s northern and southern boundaries. The meeting concluded with plans for joint military-civilian patrols ahead of the upcoming farming season.
