Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has performed the lesser Hajj (Umrah) in the early hours of the first night of the last ten days of Ramadan 1446 AH, a sacred period when Muslims seek the Night of Majesty (Laylatul-Qadr)—a night believed to be better than a thousand months.
During the spiritual exercise, Governor AbdulRazaq joined millions of worshippers at the Holy Mosque in Makkah, offering prayers and circumambulating the Ka’abah in deep devotion. He prayed for peace, prosperity, and divine guidance for the people of Kwara State and Nigeria while also seeking God’s blessings, mercy, and ease in all affairs.
The Governor urged the Muslim faithful to take advantage of these spiritually significant nights by increasing their acts of worship, seeking forgiveness, and making sincere supplications for themselves, their families, and the nation. He emphasized the importance of faith, unity, and compassion in building a stronger society and called on Kwarans to continue to uphold the values of patience, kindness, and generosity that define the holy month of Ramadan.
The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and drug abuse prevention through strategic investments and policies.
Speaking at the 2nd Kwara State Stakeholders’ Summit on Drug Abuse, Prevention, and Control, Hon. Aileru Olalekan Mukail, Special Assistant to the Governor, highlighted initiatives such as the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Sugar Film Factory, Garment Factory, and Kwapreneur, designed to create jobs and steer young people away from drugs and crime.
Themed “Synthetic Drug Crisis: United for Safer Kwara,” the summit underscored the administration’s dedication to tackling the growing menace of synthetic drugs.
As part of proactive measures, the government has introduced mandatory drug testing for tertiary students and unveiled the State Drug Prevention Campus Ambassadors, a volunteer group dedicated to combating drug abuse across institutions.
The summit, attended by government officials, traditional rulers, youth leaders, and students, featured paper presentations, panel discussions, and drama performances. Speakers, including NOA Director General Mallam Issa Lanre Onilu, Prof. Issa Baba Awoye, and Dr. Mahmoud Danjuma, called for a multi-sectoral approach to prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation, commending Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for championing youth-focused policies.
The Kwara State Government has assured residents of improved access to quality healthcare with the unveiling of the newly renovated General Hospital, Afon, in Asa Local Government Area. Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, emphasized the administration’s dedication to ensuring that citizens, especially those in rural areas, receive top-notch medical services. She urged residents to make full use of the upgraded facility while calling on the local government to take responsibility for its maintenance and proper use.
Dr. El-Imam highlighted the government’s significant investment in equipping the hospital as part of broader efforts to enhance healthcare infrastructure across the state. The Chairman of the House Committee on Health, Hon. Seun Oguniyi, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for prioritizing public health, while Asa Local Government Chairman, Alhaji Yahyah Shehu, praised the initiative and encouraged continued community support for the administration’s developmental projects. The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Hon. Yinusa Oniboki, Hon. Rukayat Shittu, and community leaders.
… Initiative Aims to Equip Youths with Practical Skills for Food Security and Economic Growth
The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON, is intensifying efforts to empower students with agricultural skills, resources, and opportunities to enhance self-sufficiency and economic development.
As part of this vision, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, reaffirmed the government’s commitment during a meeting with the Senior Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Hon. Wasiu Onidugbe, at his office yesterday. Their discussions centered on integrating students into the state’s agricultural development agenda as a strategic approach to boosting food production and creating sustainable career pathways.
The initiative is a key component of the Kwara Next Generation Farmers programme, which falls under Pillar 5 (Value Chain) of the Kwara State Agricultural Transformation Plan. This program aims to nurture a new generation of agripreneurs while strengthening the agricultural value chain in the state.
Dr. Abolore highlighted the government’s plan to equip students with practical farming skills before they graduate, ensuring they are well-prepared to contribute to the agricultural sector. As part of this strategy, cluster farming will be introduced to provide hands-on experience, alongside a reward system to encourage dedication and excellence among participants.
“Our youths are the future of agriculture in Kwara. By engaging them early, we are not only securing food production but also creating viable career paths in the sector,” Dr. Abolore stated.
Hon. Wasiu Onidugbe commended the Commissioner’s vision and emphasized the importance of structured training programs for students. He assured full support in ensuring the initiative’s success, recognizing its potential to transform the lives of young people and contribute to the state’s economic prosperity.
As Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq continues to drive policies that uplift communities and promote sustainable development, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development remains committed to fostering agricultural innovation and expanding economic opportunities for students and youths in Kwara State.
…Transporters Laud Governor AbdulRazaq’s Efforts in Enhancing Ease of Doing Business
The Kwara State Government has been commended for its improved transportation system, which has significantly enhanced the ease of doing business for transport operators across the state.
The commendation came during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Kwara State Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN) and the Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN) to the Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Lafia Aliyu Kora Sabi, at his office on Thursday.
Hon. Lafia Aliyu Kora Sabi, while receiving the delegation, expressed appreciation for their visit and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further improving the transportation sector. He assured that the Ministry, under his leadership, would ensure that the concerns and needs of transporters are effectively addressed.
The Commissioner also urged transport operators to maintain peace and order in their daily activities, emphasizing that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration prioritizes the welfare and progress of citizens. He noted that the creation of the Ministry of Transportation was part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance road infrastructure and provide a more efficient transport system for residents.
“I am happy that you deemed it fit to honor me with this visit, and I sincerely appreciate it. This administration has consistently introduced transformational and innovative policies across all sectors, including transportation. That is why this Ministry was established—to further improve the road network and transport system for the benefit of all citizens,” Hon. Lafia stated.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Ibrahim Orire, congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to deliver on the administration’s vision. He noted that the government, through the former Ministry of Works and Transport, had maintained a strong relationship with transport unions and would continue to foster collaboration for sustainable progress.
In her remarks, the Director of Personnel, Finance, and Supply at the Ministry, Hajia Medinat Ajao, thanked the transport associations for their visit and urged them to comply with state transportation regulations. She also called on them to support the government’s investments in road infrastructure by ensuring proper use and maintenance of the roads.
Speaking on behalf of TOAN, its Chairman, Alhaji Saliu Gidado, commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his commitment to rehabilitating and constructing roads across the state, noting that the improved road network has significantly reduced maintenance costs for transport operators and minimized traffic congestion. He pledged the association’s continued support for the administration’s policies.
Similarly, the Chairman of MOUN, Comrade Musa Bolarinwa Jimoh, described Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration as one that prioritizes the needs of the masses, particularly transporters. He highlighted the numerous interventions provided by the state government to ease the financial burden on operators and called for additional support and relief programs.
Both leaders reaffirmed their loyalty to the government and urged the state to continue its efforts in providing a conducive environment for transporters.
The meeting also had in attendance key officials of the Ministry, including the Director of Transportation, Engr. Joshua Durotoye; Director of Mechanical Services, Engr. Isiaq Ibrahim; Director of Rail, Road, and Waterways, Engr. Solomon Oyinloye, as well as members of TOAN and MOUN.
… Enforcement set to commence this week as part of urban renewal efforts
The Kwara State Government has announced the immediate revocation of all 2024 signage and billboard licenses across the state, reinforcing its earlier suspension of billboard permits. The government also warned that identification of non-compliant billboards is ongoing, with removal enforcement set to begin this week.
This was disclosed in a statement issued today by the Chairman of the Taskforce Committee on Illegal Billboards and Signages and Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju.
According to the statement, the revocation aims to eliminate unauthorized and improperly erected billboards, posters, and light pole banners in Ilorin metropolis and other urban centers. The initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s Urban Renewal Programme, which seeks to transform Kwara into a modern and visually appealing state.
The government clarified that no new registrations or renewals of billboard and signage licenses will be processed until further notice, as efforts are underway to finalize a new regulatory framework for outdoor advertising.
Owners of unidentified billboards have been urged to remove them immediately before the Taskforce begins enforcement operations this week.
…Governor AbdulRazaq Leads Efforts to Combat Synthetic Drug Crisis, Launches Campus Ambassadors Initiative
The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, is set to host the second edition of the Kwara Stakeholders’ Summit on Drug Abuse Prevention and Control. Themed “Synthetic Drug Crisis: United for a Safer Kwara,” the summit aims to address the growing menace of synthetic drug abuse, which has become a critical public health and security concern, particularly among young people.
Organized through the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Abuse Prevention and Control, the event will bring together a wide range of stakeholders to develop preventive strategies, enhance rehabilitation efforts, and implement sustainable solutions to curb drug abuse in the state. Unlike traditional narcotics, synthetic drugs are highly potent, unpredictable, and extremely dangerous, making it imperative for the government and concerned parties to act swiftly.
A key highlight of this year’s summit is the official launch of the Kwara State Drug Abuse Prevention Campus Ambassadors, an initiative aimed at empowering young leaders in tertiary institutions across the state. The program seeks to create a network of student advocates who will lead awareness campaigns, promote responsible behavior, and foster a culture of prevention within their campuses.
The event is scheduled to take place on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at the Kwara State Banquet Hall, Ilorin, with a 9:00 AM prompt start. It will feature distinguished keynote speakers, including the Oloro of Oro Kingdom, Oba Oyatoye Joel Olaniyi Titiloye Olufayo; Professor Issa Baba Awoye, the Medical Director of Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Budo Egba; and Dr. A.A. Isiaq, a renowned lankotheorist, author, researcher, and social commentator.
In addition to the keynote addresses, the summit will include a panel discussion featuring notable figures such as Olaide Ahli, CEO of Olaidedahli Sports and Entertainment Management Company Ltd; Ambassador Mukhtar Afonja RN, Provost of Adewale Ibrahim College of Health Sciences; Dr. Mahmud Danjuma Musa, Senior Lecturer at the University of Ilorin; Hon. Asefon Dayo Sunday, Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Student Matters; Miss Monisola Oluwadamilola Akindele, Founder of Muni’s Sickle Cell Anaemia and Drug Abuse Foundation; and Pastor Oyedapo Ademuyiwa Ipadeola, a senior pastor at RCCG Hopehall, Ilorin.
The summit is expected to attract a broad range of dignitaries, including government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, school administrators, students, sports administrators, entertainers, media personalities, health professionals, and law enforcement agencies. With a focus on collective action, the Kwara State Government is urging all stakeholders to actively participate in the conversation and contribute to building a drug-free society.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at addressing social challenges, and this summit underscores his commitment to tackling drug abuse through preventive measures, education, and rehabilitation. The event promises to be a crucial platform for collaboration, policy discussions, and actionable strategies to combat the synthetic drug crisis and create a safer Kwara for all.
…Improved road access to boost local economy, ease transportation for farmers
Residents of Irepodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, have expressed appreciation to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, for the completion of the 12km Ajase Ipo – Oke Iya Road.
The reconstructed road, which connects several agrarian communities, is expected to enhance road safety and stimulate economic growth by making it easier for local farmers to transport their produce to markets.
This project is part of Governor AbdulRazaq’s rural-urban renewal initiative, aimed at upgrading critical infrastructure across the state.
His administration’s continued investment in road construction, rehabilitation, and development has been widely praised for improving accessibility and driving development in both urban and rural areas.
As Kwarans commend the governor for previous road projects, the successful reconstruction of the Ajase Ipo – Oke Iya Road stands as yet another testament to his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and the well-being of the people.
… Commend administration’s strides in development and youth empowerment
The All Progressives Congress (APC) youth leaders in Kwara Central Senatorial District have pledged their loyalty and support to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, acknowledging his administration’s remarkable efforts in improving the socio-economic lives of the people.
Speaking during a visit to the Commissioner for Youth Development, Ndanusa Shehu, in Ilorin, the APC Youth Coordinator for Kwara Central and Adewole Ward Youth Leader, Moshood Salman, lauded the governor’s achievements in infrastructure, social investment, health, education, and governance. He urged the people of Kwara to continue supporting the administration to ensure sustained development across the state.
In his remarks, Commissioner Ndanusa Shehu emphasized the AbdulRazaq administration’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and development. He highlighted various government initiatives designed to enhance opportunities for young people and encouraged them to actively participate in political and developmental processes to secure a brighter future for themselves and the state.
…. State intensifies efforts to eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases
No fewer than 72 indigent patients in Kwara State have benefitted from free hydrocelectomy surgeries as part of the state government’s commitment to eliminating Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, disclosed this during the 2024 State Review Meeting on NTDs held at G Pinnacle Hotel, Ilorin. She noted that beneficiaries were drawn from the state’s three senatorial districts and provided with logistical support for transportation to and from the surgery centers.
Dr. El-Imam commended the medical team and health officials for translating the government’s vision into action. While acknowledging the reduction in NTD cases across Kwara, she stressed the need for intensified efforts toward total elimination, emphasizing prevention as the first line of defense since treatment alone is not sustainable.
“We need to improve our efforts to eliminate these diseases. The first step is prevention, as we cannot afford to treat all cases. Local Governments play a crucial role in ensuring people take preventive measures. Information at the grassroots level has a greater impact,” she said.
She urged NTD Local Government Coordinators, their Assistants, and other key stakeholders to take proactive steps in combating Schistosomiasis, Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis (STH), and Lymphatic Filariasis to foster a healthier society.
Dr. El-Imam further stressed the importance of ensuring access to preventive measures and treatment, particularly for children and young people, as improved health directly enhances academic performance and overall well-being.
Also speaking, State NTDs Coordinator, Mrs. Christiana Bamgboye, highlighted the significant progress made in reducing NTD cases across Kwara due to government interventions and support from development partners. She expressed optimism that the state will eliminate NTDs before the 2030 global target, given the steady decline in cases of Schistosomiasis, STH, and Lymphatic Filariasis under the present administration.
