Kwara Rising

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  • Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Drives Urban Renewal with Upgrade of Key Ilorin Road

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Drives Urban Renewal with Upgrade of Key Ilorin Road

    …Post Office – Emirs Road – Isale Oja Reconstruction to Boost Commerce, Ease Traffic in Kwara Capital

    As part of his administration’s aggressive urban-rural renewal agenda, Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has commenced the upgrade of the bustling Post Office – Emirs Road – Isale Oja Road in Ilorin, a critical artery connecting businesses, markets, and residential communities.

    The project, which includes reconstruction and modernization of the road, aims to enhance vehicular movement, improve access to the iconic Oja Oba market, and stimulate economic activities in the state capital.

    Recognized as one of Kwara’s busiest commercial corridors, the road’s upgrade is expected to reduce gridlock, bolster trade, and uplift the livelihoods of thousands of residents and traders.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has prioritized infrastructure development over the past five years, channeling investments into road construction and rehabilitation across urban and rural communities.

    This latest project aligns with his vision to bridge infrastructure gaps, drive economic growth, and improve the quality of life for Kwarans.

    The Post Office – Emirs Road – Isale Oja project joins a growing list of completed and ongoing road upgrades under AbdulRazaq’s tenure, including rural access roads linking agrarian communities to urban markets. These efforts have earned the Governor bipartisan acclaim, positioning Kwara as a state on the rise

  • Kwara Governor Launches Multimillion-Naira Educational Materials, Sports Kits to Boost Basic Education

    Kwara Governor Launches Multimillion-Naira Educational Materials, Sports Kits to Boost Basic Education

    …73,365 Textbooks, 3,931 Sports Equipment Distributed to Tackle Out-of-School Crisis, Ease Parental Burden

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday flagged off the distribution of instructional materials and sports kits worth millions of naira to primary and junior secondary schools across Kwara State, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to eradicate the out-of-school children menace and elevate educational standards.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, the Governor underscored the intervention as part of broader efforts to lessen the financial burden on parents amid rising costs and to ensure equitable access to quality education.

    Key Items Distributed:

    73,365 textbooks (English, Mathematics, Computer Studies, etc.)

    12,780 assorted primary school libraries

    100 special education materials

    260 sets of Early Childhood Care (ECCDE) furniture

    3,931 sports equipment

    344 agricultural toolkits

    78 Maga Tab X tablets

    “This initiative aligns with our vision to bridge educational gaps and prioritize basic education,” the Governor stated. He highlighted ongoing reforms, including teacher recruitment, timely promotions, and infrastructure upgrades, as critical to transforming the sector.

    Kwara House Committee on Education Chairman, Hon. Muhammed Boriya Salihu, hailed the event as “historic,” noting that the state has moved beyond past neglect in education. “These interventions are filling critical gaps and setting a new trajectory for development,” he said.

    Prof. Sheu Raheem Adaramaja, Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), emphasized the materials’ role in fostering holistic child development. “These resources will elevate academic and sports standards, empowering pupils to become future leaders,” he said.

    The event drew top government officials, including Senior Adviser Alhaji Saadu Salau; Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Aliyu Kora Sabi; Permanent Secretary for Education Mrs. Bake Olarewaju; and APC Chieftain Alhaji Raheem Adedoyin. Also present were representatives from UBEC, sports bodies, traditional institutions, and school administrators.

  • Kwara TESCOM Nears Recruitment Finish Line, Extends Gratitude to 4,163 Interviewees

    …State Commission: Merit, Equity, and Local Needs Guide Final Selection

    According to a release by the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), the agency has entered the final phase of its teacher recruitment drive, commending applicants for their participation in a process reflecting public confidence in Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration.

    Per the statement, 4,163 candidates were screened and interviewed out of 5,290 initially invited, with 2,169 females and 1,994 males participating. The commission noted that 54.1% (2,252) of interviewees applied for STEM-related subjects, highlighting efforts to address critical educational gaps.

    TESCOM Chairman Mallam Bello Taoheed, according to the release, confirmed the commission will finalize 1,800 hires, prioritizing merit, equity, and local government needs. “We wish we could employ everyone who excelled, but vacancies are limited,” he stated. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after internal reviews and must undergo mandatory drug tests by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    The chairman emphasized transparency in the process, which included computer-based tests and interviews, attributing the gap between invited and interviewed applicants to absences or unmet criteria.

  • Kwara Govt Trains Livestock Farmers on Fodder Production, Value Addition

    Kwara Govt Trains Livestock Farmers on Fodder Production, Value Addition

    … Initiative Capable of Addressing Farmers/Herders’ Clashes

    The Kwara State Government has successfully concluded a five-day training program aimed at equipping 100 livestock farmers and value chain actors with skills in commercial fodder production and value addition.

    The capacity-building initiative, organized under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES)—a World Bank-assisted program—was facilitated by the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, Bayero University Kano (BUK) in collaboration with S G Imperial Concept Limited. The training took place at the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI), Kabba-Owode, Ifelodun LGA, Kwara State.

    At the closing ceremony, State Project Coordinator, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, represented by Project Extension Officer, Mr. Nureni AbdulRasaq, emphasized the program’s potential to enhance food security, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and mitigate farmers/herders’ conflicts by providing a sustainable alternative for livestock feeding.

    “Fodder production addresses the competition between humans and animals for food. By training farmers to engage in fodder production, we create employment, reduce farmer-herder conflicts, and ensure pastoralists have a steady feed source for their livestock,” he explained.
    Dr. Akeem Ajeigbe, the lead facilitator from CDA, projected that with Nigeria’s population expected to hit 300 million in the next 25 years, the country must mechanize, intensify, and commercialize agriculture to ensure food security. He highlighted that the participants were trained in both theoretical and practical aspects of fodder production, including processing crop residues and forest trees into livestock feed.

    One of the beneficiaries, Mallam Abdulraheem Yahaya Onikpe, a retired federal civil servant, described the training as highly beneficial, enabling farmers to feed their livestock at a lower cost. He expressed gratitude to the Kwara State Government and its partners for investing in the future of livestock farming.

  • Kwara Government Begins Compensation for Land Acquisition in Industrial Park Expansion

    Kwara Government Begins Compensation for Land Acquisition in Industrial Park Expansion

    …Governor AbdulRazaq Prioritizes Economic Growth and Community Welfare

    The Kwara State Government has officially commenced the compensation process for the acquisition of 2,100 hectares of land earmarked for the expansion of the Kwara Industrial Park, a major development project initiated in 2023.

    The Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KWGIS), ESV Abdulkareem Babatunde Sulyman, flagged off the exercise at the agency’s headquarters in Ilorin. He explained that the acquired land, located off the old Ogbomoso road, spans over 15 communities in Asa Local Government Area.

    Sulyman further noted that the 2,100 hectares are in addition to the 650 hectares previously acquired, where development has already commenced. He praised the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration for its commitment to economic growth and for approving over ₦500 million to compensate more than 1,000 affected landowners, farmers, and stakeholders.

    He emphasized that the compensation process complies with constitutional provisions for public land acquisition and urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds.

    “Today is a special day as we begin the payment of compensation to customary landowners, land purchasers, and farmers. The government does not buy land but ensures that all legal rights on the acquired land are properly addressed through compensation,” Sulyman stated.

    Community Leaders Applaud Governor AbdulRazaq’s Initiative

    The event witnessed the participation of community leaders, traditional rulers, and government officials, all of whom expressed gratitude for the governor’s vision in developing the Industrial Park.

    Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, represented by the Balogun Alanamu, Dr. Abubakar Usman Jos, commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his foresight and commitment to development. He assured the government of the full support of the traditional council in ensuring the success of the project.

    Other notable figures, including the Aare Ogele, Alhaji Garba Aremu Galadima, also praised the administration’s efforts, highlighting that the Industrial Park would create job opportunities for youths and drive economic prosperity in the area.

    Call for Collaboration and Responsible Use of Compensation

    The Director of Land Services, ESV Abdulwahab AbdulRahman, called for continued support from community members to ensure the smooth implementation of the project. Additionally, Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Motunrayo Adaran, and Legal Adviser, Mrs. Omolara Olubiyi, encouraged beneficiaries to invest the funds in their communities for long-term socio-economic benefits.

    As the compensation process progresses, the Kwara State Government remains committed to executing the Industrial Park expansion efficiently, reinforcing Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s drive to position Kwara as a hub for industrialization and job creation.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Upgrades Ibrahim Taiwo Road to Boost Traffic Flow and Economic Growth

    Governor AbdulRazaq Upgrades Ibrahim Taiwo Road to Boost Traffic Flow and Economic Growth

    … Kwara State Government Continues Infrastructure Investments

    The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, is currently upgrading Ibrahim Taiwo Road in Ilorin as part of its rural-urban development initiative aimed at enhancing infrastructure across the state.

    Recognized as one of Ilorin’s busiest commercial roads, Ibrahim Taiwo Road serves as a major link for businesses and commuters. The ongoing upgrade is expected to improve vehicular movement, reduce traffic congestion, and boost economic activities in the area.

    Over the last five years, Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has made massive investments in infrastructure, particularly in road construction, rehabilitation, and expansion, acknowledging its crucial role in economic growth and development.

    The upgrade of Ibrahim Taiwo Road is one of many road projects being executed across the state to improve urban mobility and enhance rural connectivity. Similar to completed and ongoing road projects, this initiative has drawn widespread commendation from residents and stakeholders, further reinforcing Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to transforming Kwara’s infrastructure.

  • Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Felicitates with Kwarans on Ramadan, Urges Adherence to Tenets of Faith

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Felicitates with Kwarans on Ramadan, Urges Adherence to Tenets of Faith

    Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has extended his heartfelt felicitations to the Muslim faithful in the state and beyond as they commence the holy month of Ramadan.

    In a statement issued from the Government House in Ilorin, the Governor described Ramadan as a sacred period of spiritual reflection, devotion, and self-discipline, urging Kwarans to uphold the tenets of faith, love, and charity.

    “This is a season of immense blessings, a time to seek closeness to Allah through prayer, fasting, and acts of kindness. I urge all Muslim faithful to take full advantage of this period to strengthen their relationship with the Almighty, extend compassion to the less privileged, and foster unity in our communities,” the Governor said.

    Governor AbdulRazaq also emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and supporting one another, noting that Ramadan serves as a reminder of the virtues of patience, sacrifice, and piety.

    “As we observe this sacred month, let us also remember to pray for our dear state and country. May Allah accept our worship, grant us peace, and continue to bless Kwara State with progress and prosperity,” he added.

    The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering development and ensuring the well-being of all citizens, promising to continue policies that promote social welfare and economic growth.

    He wished all Muslim faithful a blessed and fulfilling Ramadan, praying that their sacrifices and supplications bring abundant rewards.

  • Kwara Garment Factory Supplies High-Quality Apparel for Renewed Hope Initiative’s Agricultural Programs

    Kwara Garment Factory Supplies High-Quality Apparel for Renewed Hope Initiative’s Agricultural Programs

    …Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s revival gives a new lease of life to the textile industry in Kwara


    Kwara Garment Factory has successfully delivered premium-quality polo T-shirts, trousers, and bucket hats for the Young Farmers Club and the Women Agricultural Support Programme—two flagship initiatives under the Renewed Hope Initiative led by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, OON, CON.

    These programs are designed to empower young farmers and women in agriculture, providing them with essential resources to enhance productivity and growth in the sector.

    Speaking on the delivery, the Managing Director of Kwara Garment Factory, Hajia Bukola Adedeji, reaffirmed the factory’s dedication to excellence and its commitment to supporting impactful national initiatives.

    “At Kwara Garment Factory, we are committed to excellence in garment production and are honored to contribute to this transformative initiative. Our goal is to provide durable, high-quality apparel that supports productivity and instills a sense of pride among participants.”

  • Gov AbdulRazaq Celebrates Kwara Pupils Hamdalat, Muminat for Winning National Tax Debate

    Gov AbdulRazaq Celebrates Kwara Pupils Hamdalat, Muminat for Winning National Tax Debate

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has congratulated Hamdalat Eniola Agboola of Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin, for emerging as the champion of the recently concluded National Tax Debate held in Abuja.

    Hamdalat secured an impressive 85%, outperforming all other contestants to become the National Ambassador of the Society of Women in Taxation (SWIT) for 2025.

    The Governor also praised Muminat Ayomide Abdulganiyu of Government Girls Secondary School, Oke Sunna, Ilorin, who secured fourth place in the competition with a commendable score of 78%.

    Governor AbdulRazaq applauded the students for their outstanding achievements on the national stage, reinforcing Kwara State’s reputation as a hub for talented and high-achieving individuals across various sectors.

    He also extended his appreciation to the students’ parents, their schools, and the Kwara State chapter of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) for their invaluable support and contributions to their success.

    The Governor wished champion Hamdalat and the brilliant Muminat continued excellence in their academic and professional pursuits.

  • Kwara Government Launches Digital and Coding Training for 50 Public Schools

    Kwara Government Launches Digital and Coding Training for 50 Public Schools

    …. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Expands Tech Education to Bridge Digital Divide

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government has launched a Coding and Digital Literacy training programme aimed at equipping students from 50 public primary and junior secondary schools with essential digital skills.

    The programme, spearheaded by the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Digital and Innovation, Hon. Ishola Kayode, was officially flagged off on Tuesday by the Senior Adviser and Counsellor to the Governor, Alhaji Sa’adu Salau, on behalf of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

    Speaking at the launch held at Bishop Smith Junior Secondary School, Ilorin, Salau emphasized that the initiative is part of the administration’s broader investment in education and technology.

    “We are now faced with the reality of the digital revolution. So, what we have done today is to flag off the training for digital literacy in 50 schools in Kwara State,” he stated.

    He added that the programme targets over 150 students in each of the selected schools and aims to provide them with a strong foundation in digital skills, ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

    Among the schools in Ilorin benefiting from the pilot phase are Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin Grammar School, and Sheikh Alimi L.G.E.A Primary School.

    Hon. Ishola highlighted the importance of digital literacy in problem-solving and community development.

    “Public school students should not lag behind in the digital world. They should be digitally literate and capable of solving problems in their communities using technology,” he said.

    According to him, the pilot phase includes 15 schools from Kwara Central, 13 from the North, and 22 from the South, with plans for expansion after a data-driven assessment of the programme’s impact.

    Mrs. Akanbi Janet Ayoola, Principal of Bishop Smith College (Junior Session), commended the initiative, describing it as one of the best decisions by the state government in an era where technology and artificial intelligence play a crucial role in daily life.

    Students, including Opadili Dorcas Boluwatife and Akinola Kolawole Abdulrahman, expressed their gratitude to the government, promising to make the most of the opportunity to enhance their digital knowledge and compete on a global scale.