Kwara Rising

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  • Kwara Remains One of Nigeria’s Most Peaceful States — Nigerian Military

    Kwara Remains One of Nigeria’s Most Peaceful States — Nigerian Military

    …Army Commends Governor AbdulRazaq’s Investments in Security and Economy During Visit

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, thanks to its proactive investment in security and economic development, the Nigerian Military has said.

    The commendation came from Colonel Usman Hashim Muhammed, the lead officer of the Senior Course 47 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, during an interactive session with top government officials in Ilorin on Tuesday.

    “Kwara State is one of the most peaceful states, but this fact does not mean that we should relent. It only requires that more efforts are made so that the peace continues and improves in the future,” Col. Muhammed said.

    He added that the visit was part of a study tour to understand the strategies behind the state’s peaceful status and that findings from the interaction would help shape further recommendations to sustain and enhance security in the state.

    The delegation was received by senior government officials, including the representative of the Secretary to the State Government, Abdulganiy Yita; Special Adviser on Media, Alhaji Bashir Adigun; SSA on Security, Alhaji Muyideen Aliyu; SSA on Religion (Christianity), Revd Timothy Akangbe; and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye.

    The Nigerian Army praised the AbdulRazaq-led administration’s commitment to peacebuilding and people-centered initiatives that foster economic growth and social inclusion.

    In his briefing to the delegation, SSA on Security Muyideen Aliyu outlined the government’s approach to security, which includes logistical and financial support for security agencies, collaboration with traditional and religious leaders, and engagement with community-based vigilante groups.

    Speaking at the session, Alhaji Adigun highlighted the vital role of community structures in bolstering security, while appreciating the military for its continued efforts in safeguarding internal peace.

    CPS Rafiu Ajakaye, who moderated the session, spoke on the state’s economic growth, citing a 125.82% increase in Internally Generated Revenue—from N30.6 billion in 2019 to N69.1 billion in 2024—achieved through automation, fiscal discipline, and tax reforms.

    He detailed flagship projects introduced under Governor AbdulRazaq, including the Garment Factory, Innovation Hub, Film Factory, and Kwapreneur programme, all designed to uplift vulnerable groups, grow the local economy, and expand youth opportunities through skills acquisition and job creation.

    Ajakaye noted that the administration has created tens of thousands of jobs across various sectors and recruited over 8,600 teachers between 2019 and 2025—describing it as the highest education-sector employment in recent Kwara history.

    He added that the state has committed over N4 billion in counterpart funding to unlock development partnerships, particularly for rural infrastructure, with over 1,000 kilometers of roads already rehabilitated or under construction.

    The interactive session affirmed Kwara’s multipronged governance model—anchored on security, economic empowerment, and inclusive growth—as a national example of effective subnational leadership.

  • Kwara Records 16% IGR Growth, $85 Million Grant, and 45.8% Debt Reduction in Q1 2025

    Kwara Records 16% IGR Growth, $85 Million Grant, and 45.8% Debt Reduction in Q1 2025


    … Finance Commissioner hails Governor AbdulRazaq’s fiscal reforms as State posts major wins in revenue growth, debt sustainability, and global funding access

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Ministry of Finance has reported significant fiscal achievements for the first quarter of 2025, reflecting the State’s commitment to prudent financial management and economic development under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

    Presenting the Q1 2025 Ministerial Briefing, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, highlighted a 16% increase in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) compared to the same period in 2024. She attributed this growth to effective investment strategies and comprehensive tax reforms aimed at reducing dependence on federal allocations. “This growth underscores our commitment to financial autonomy and sustainable economic development,” Dr. Nuru stated.

    In addition to the IGR performance, Dr. Nuru announced that Kwara State secured over $85 million in performance-based grants through the World Bank’s Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, placing Kwara among the top-performing states nationwide. She described the achievement as a direct result of the administration’s consistent efforts to uplift the poor and vulnerable and to implement development programmes effectively across all 16 local government areas.

    Dr. Nuru also revealed that Kwara’s domestic debt stock had dropped by 45.8%, a remarkable reduction that positions the State among Nigeria’s most fiscally sustainable sub-national governments. She said this development, along with stable fiscal indicators, reflects the prudent management of public resources under the present administration.

    The Commissioner reported that the ₦584.69 billion 2025 budget was published promptly, demonstrating transparency and a commitment to accountability. She added that the Ministry has advanced its financial operations by automating processes, adopting the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), and introducing real-time expenditure monitoring systems to enhance oversight and service delivery.

    Reaffirming the State’s policy of prompt payment of salaries and pensions, Dr. Nuru stressed the importance of the ongoing Kwara State Residents Registration Agency (KWSRRA) exercise, which is required for all State and local government pensioners and employees. She noted that the exercise would ensure seamless verification and timely disbursement of monthly entitlements.

    Dr. Nuru concluded by acknowledging Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s visionary leadership and support for financial reform. “His Excellency’s direction and commitment to good governance have been pivotal in steering our financial strategies toward success,” she said.

  • Kwara Vaccinates Over 130,000 Animals to Curb Zoonotic Diseases

    Kwara Vaccinates Over 130,000 Animals to Curb Zoonotic Diseases


    …State government intensifies livestock health efforts as part of broader strategy for food security, public health, and sector growth

    Kwara State Government has vaccinated 132,792 animals across the state in a large-scale effort to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. The exercise targeted susceptible animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.

    The State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Hon. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, disclosed this while presenting the Ministry’s report at the quarterly inter-ministerial press briefing held at the Ministry of Finance in Ilorin. She noted that the vaccination campaign covered 110,241 cattle, 16,009 sheep, and 6,542 goats.

    Hon. Thomas stated that the mass vaccination campaign is part of the administration’s commitment to improving animal health, public safety, and agricultural productivity. She added that the newly created Ministry has also inaugurated a Live Bird Market to support poultry farmers and fowl sellers. The market, she said, will serve as a surveillance point to monitor and prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases.

    The Commissioner noted that a Cadre Harmonise analysis was recently conducted, with the findings presented to the national government, ECOWAS, and the United Nations by the National Task Force. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building a modern and inclusive livestock sector capable of generating jobs, ensuring food security, and fostering peace.

    She highlighted key intervention programmes such as the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) and the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme as instrumental to the progress being recorded in the livestock sector under the AbdulRazaq-led administration.

    Hon. Thomas also revealed that the Ministry is finalising plans to begin a rabies vaccination campaign across the state, aimed at controlling and eliminating rabies cases caused by dog and cat bites. She emphasized that the present administration remains focused on safeguarding public health through proactive veterinary and agricultural policies.

  • Over 350,000 Residents Registered in Kwara’s Ongoing Data Drive

    Over 350,000 Residents Registered in Kwara’s Ongoing Data Drive

    … KWASRRA targets full coverage as SSID registration becomes key to accessing education, government services, and economic planning

    The Kwara State Residents Registration Agency (KWASRRA) has so far captured over 350,000 residents in its ongoing effort to create a credible database for planning, security, and economic development.

    The Acting General Manager of the Agency, Mr. Tajudeen Jimoh, made the disclosure on Wednesday during the Q1 2025 Inter-ministerial Press Briefing organized by the Ministry of Communications and held at the Ministry of Finance conference room in Ilorin.

    Jimoh explained that the Agency, under the directive of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, is mandated to register all residents in the state and issue them unique State Security Identification (SSID) numbers and cards. He said the exercise is aimed at promoting accurate data for planning, improving access to government services, and ensuring social inclusion.

    He said the registration is now being integrated into key sectors such as education and local governance. Parents, guardians, and students will be required to present their SSID numbers for examination registrations, including common entrance, JSS, and SSCE. Similarly, newly admitted students in state-owned tertiary institutions will be required to register as residents of Kwara.

    The Agency is collaborating with the Ministries of Education, Tertiary Education, Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Community Development, among others, to ensure compliance with the directive and drive increased public participation in the exercise.

    Providing a breakdown of progress, Jimoh noted that the number of registration centres has increased from an average of six per local government to eight, raising the total from 96 to 113 across the 16 local government areas. The Agency also recruited 200 additional ad-hoc staff, raising the workforce of registration agents from 300 to 500 to enhance coverage and efficiency.

    He said the distribution of SSID cards to residents is ongoing, with more Kwarans being fully registered each day. Jimoh also noted that the registration project’s consultant now has a permanent office in Ilorin, improving service delivery and response time to complaints.

    Looking ahead, the Agency plans to expand its online self-onboarding platform to include liveness checks and face-matching features. This development will enable residents, particularly pensioners and others living outside the state or country, to complete their registration without needing to appear physically.

    Jimoh said that the government is determined to remove all barriers to participation, especially for vulnerable groups, and encouraged residents to register and support the state’s effort to build a functional, secure, and inclusive data system.

    He recalled that all government workers and pensioners had already been captured in the database, a milestone in the state’s plan to use data to enhance governance and security.

  • Kwarans Urge Sen. Saliu Mustapha to Obtain Statutory Approval Before Constructing Pavilion at Emir’s Palace

    Kwarans Urge Sen. Saliu Mustapha to Obtain Statutory Approval Before Constructing Pavilion at Emir’s Palace

    A wave of public sentiment has emerged in support of the Kwara State Government amid an ongoing controversy surrounding the construction of a pavilion within the Emir of Ilorin’s Palace.

    Citizens are calling on Senator Saliu Mustapha, the Turaki of Ilorin and senator representing Kwara Central, to obtain proper statutory approval before proceeding with the project.

    A majority of contributors to a weekend radio discussion threw their weight behind the government, urging the senator to seek authorization from the appropriate state agencies before embarking on any building projects within the revered palace premises. Many warned that failing to follow due process could lead to avoidable disputes or unintended consequences in the future.

    The issue was extensively debated on Eto Wa, a widely listened-to radio program produced by leading pro-democracy group Kwara Must Change. The episode featured seasoned commentators, including Mr. Dare Kamaldeen Babasiga and development analyst Dr. Ibrahim Kuranga, who explained the legal and procedural frameworks governing public infrastructure development—especially in historically and culturally sensitive areas.

    The pavilion in question is reportedly being constructed under the directive of Senator Mustapha without documented clearance from relevant state regulatory bodies, a move that has raised concern about procedural compliance.

    In a rare move, the program’s anchor, Bolaji Galadima, opened the phone lines earlier than usual to capture real-time public sentiment. The responses were emphatic and largely unanimous, callers from across Ilorin and beyond expressed strong support for the Kwara State Government’s insistence on adherence to due process.

    Several contributors emphasized that no individual, regardless of social or political status, should bypass the laid-down procedures for construction, especially within the Emir’s Palace, which stands as a symbol of cultural heritage and traditional authority in Ilorin Emirate.

    “The rule of law must prevail, one caller stated.

    The controversy has reignited broader conversations about the boundaries of political influence in traditional institutions and the need to uphold institutional integrity.

  • Kwara Govt Pushes Infrastructure Drive with 24 New Road Projects, Tallest Flagpole in West Africa

    Kwara Govt Pushes Infrastructure Drive with 24 New Road Projects, Tallest Flagpole in West Africa

    …33 projects completed, 209km of rural roads underway, FG interventions acknowledged

    The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding infrastructure and unlocking economic opportunities across the state through a series of strategic investments aimed at improving connectivity and enhancing the lives of residents.

    At the Q1 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held on Wednesday in Ilorin, the Honourable Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, said the state has awarded 24 new road projects this year alone, with six already completed. He noted that out of the 46 ongoing projects as of Q4 2024, 33 have now been fully delivered, while 11 continue into the new quarter.

    One of the flagship projects mentioned is the construction of the Agbamu–Ila-Orangun Road, described as a critical inter-state link between Kwara and Osun States, expected to spur economic activities and ease regional access.

    “More border communities will soon be opened up as part of the administration’s rural-urban integration agenda,” the Commissioner stated.

    Olododo also disclosed that projects earlier delayed due to cost variations have now resumed, including key roads in the Ilorin GRA axis and other parts of the state.

    In the area of emergency response, the Commissioner reported that the Kwara State Fire Service saved properties worth over ₦728 billion during the period under review—underscoring improvements in operational efficiency.

    He also highlighted the state’s success under the ongoing Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), with 209.77km of rural roads under construction. The project has earned Kwara two national recognitions: Best in Counterpart Funding and Best in Overall Disbursement.

    A notable highlight of the briefing was the announcement of a 70-meter flagpole—billed as the tallest in West Africa—under construction on Wahab Folawiyo Unity Road. Olododo described the initiative as “a symbol of Kwara’s rising prominence and collective pride.”

    He further acknowledged major federal road interventions across the state, including:

    ● The 49km Eyenkorin–Afon–Ojoku–Offa–Odo-Otin Road

    ● The 83km Lafiagi–Shonga–Bacita Road

    ● The 130km Bode Saadu–Kaiama–Kosubosu Road

    ● The Okuta–Gwanara–Bukuro Road

    “These state and federal investments are reshaping Kwara’s future,” he said.

    Engr. Olododo concluded by commending Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s visionary leadership, stating that the government remains resolute in transforming Kwara through balanced rural-urban development and long-term prosperity for all citizens.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Celebrates Workers

    Governor AbdulRazaq Celebrates Workers

    …. Reaffirms Commitment to Job Growth and Civil Service Reforms.

    As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the 2025 International Workers’ Day, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has saluted the dedication and contributions of workers across the public and private sectors, describing them as the engine room of societal development.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, the Governor praised the efforts of civil servants, farmers, factory workers, teachers, healthcare personnel, engineers, artisans, and professionals whose resilience and industry continue to drive economic growth and social progress in the state.

    “For us in Kwara State, we appreciate the immense contributions of our workers. Their dedication, resilience, and skills are the pillars of our growth and development,” the Governor said.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for workers to thrive, highlighting policies focused on strengthening the civil service, expanding job opportunities, and attracting investments to grow the state’s economy.

    “We are determined to implement policies that strengthen our civil service, grow the economy, attract investments, and expand job opportunities. Through targeted infrastructural and socioeconomic initiatives, our administration has maintained financial stability, ensured timely salary payments, supported entrepreneurship, and provided social safety nets,” the statement added.

    Governor AbdulRazaq noted that the changing nature of work, shaped by innovation and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation, calls for strategic adaptation. He pointed to various state-led projects like the Kwara Innovation Hub, the Visual Arts Centre, and the expansion of ICT centres as part of efforts to equip citizens for future opportunities.

    “As the world of work evolves… we must adapt. That thinking is at the heart of our numerous initiatives,” he said.

    The Governor also extended his appreciation to labour leaders for their support and collaborative engagement with the state government, assuring that the administration will continue to uphold workers’ welfare and dignity.

    “I wish everyone a fulfilling and inspiring Workers’ Day celebration,” he concluded.

  • KFA Edges Araba FC in Narrow Victory Despite Spirited Performance

    KFA Edges Araba FC in Narrow Victory Despite Spirited Performance


    … Matchday 3 – NLO 2025 | Tuesday, April 29 | KFA Main Pitch

    Araba FC suffered a narrow defeat on Tuesday afternoon in their Matchday 3 clash against Kwara Football Academy (KFA), with the hosts scoring an early goal that sealed the outcome in a tightly contested match.

    Screenshot

    The game kicked off under clear skies at the KFA Main Pitch, and for the first time in the tournament, fans and stakeholders applauded what many described as fair and balanced officiating. However, that early boost in officiating standards wasn’t enough to swing the tide in Araba FC’s favour.

    KFA made their mark early in the first half, capitalizing on a loose ball in the 6th minute to slot in the game’s only goal — Kwara Football Academy’s Timothy Maxwell powered home a well placed cross from Abduljelil Kamaldeen on his debut for the Academy Senior Team. It was a momentary lapse in Araba’s defensive line and KFA punished it ruthlessly.Despite the early setback, Araba FC responded with purpose and resilience. The team settled into a steady rhythm and began controlling key portions of the midfield. Tactical buildup, quick passes, and aggressive pressing soon followed, showcasing the brand of football that has earned Araba FC a loyal following in the ongoing Nationwide League One (NLO) season.

    Chances came in waves — a close-range strike that rattled the crossbar, a curling free kick that missed the top corner by inches, and a beautiful one-two combination in the box that narrowly went wide. The boys pushed hard, but as the saying goes, “mother luck” was not in their favour.

    Fans remained vocal and passionate throughout the game, urging the players forward and appreciating their continued effort to overturn the early deficit. The coaching team made timely substitutions to refresh the squad, but the equalizer simply refused to come.

    Though the match ended in disappointment for Araba FC, the performance showed heart, structure, and the fighting spirit the club has become known for. The defeat, though painful, serves as a moment of reflection and a push toward greater focus in the upcoming fixtures.

    Coach Femi Oki and the technical bench will no doubt return to the drawing board, but supporters can take pride in the team’s attitude and composure under pressure.

    Next Challenge: Sunrise FC on Friday
    The journey continues as Araba FC gears up for their next match against Sunrise FC on Friday. It’s another opportunity to bounce back stronger and reaffirm their status as one of the most exciting sides in this year’s NLO campaign.

    Final Score:
    KFA 1 – 0 Araba FC

  • Kwara Govt Launches Student Helpline to Promote Safe, Supportive Learning Environment

    Kwara Govt Launches Student Helpline to Promote Safe, Supportive Learning Environment

    …Initiative offers academic guidance and emotional support for students facing learning challenges

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development has launched a Student Learning Support Helpline to provide academic and emotional assistance to learners experiencing difficulties, as part of efforts to ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive educational environment.

    Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, said the initiative reflects Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to making education accessible and student-centered. “Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration prioritises an accessible, inclusive, and safe educational environment for all learners. The helpline is a key step towards ensuring that no student feels left behind,” he stated.

    The helpline is available through the phone number 07039448763 and email c2c@kwarastate.gov.ng, and is designed to offer personalized support for academic concerns such as difficulty in understanding study materials, concentration issues, and other learning-related challenges.

    The Ministry urged students to utilize the service, describing it as a vital resource to make learning a more positive, engaging, and empowering experience.

  • Kwara Education Commissioner Commends Teachers as Schools Resume Third Term

    Kwara Education Commissioner Commends Teachers as Schools Resume Third Term

    …Dr. Olohungbebe urges adherence to academic calendar, pledges smooth resumption under ongoing reforms

    The Kwara State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, has applauded teachers and education staff across the state as schools resume for the third term of the academic year.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, Dr. Olohungbebe described teachers as critical stakeholders in the state’s education sector and expressed gratitude for their dedication and selfless service. He encouraged continued support for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s education reforms, which aim to improve the quality of learning in Kwara.

    The Commissioner also announced the release of the approved academic calendar for both public and private schools, assuring that all necessary arrangements have been finalized to ensure a seamless start to the term.

    “We appreciate the commitment of our teachers, staff, and our partners, including proprietors of private schools, thus far. We are confident they will continue to give their best as we nurture our children for a brighter future,” the statement read.

    Dr. Olohungbebe further urged all teachers and school administrators to adhere strictly to the academic calendar and comply with all guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education to ensure a smooth and productive academic term.