Kwara Rising

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  • 1,800 Shortlisted for TESCOM Teaching Jobs in Kwara State — Applicants to Check Status on Portal 

    1,800 Shortlisted for TESCOM Teaching Jobs in Kwara State — Applicants to Check Status on Portal 

    …Governor AbdulRazaq praised for non-interference, commitment to quality education

    #KwaraRising

    One-thousand-eight-hundred (1,800) applicants have been shortlisted for teaching appointments at the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), following a rigorous and transparent selection process. The shortlisted applicants emerged from a thorough screening exercise that included online applications, computer-based tests, and oral interviews spanning a period of three months. The process was conducted in line with global best practices to ensure that only the most qualified and competent individuals are selected.

    According to a statement issued by the Commission, the successful candidates are to be deployed across senior secondary schools in the 16 local government areas of the state, based on a comprehensive needs assessment. Of the total number, 790 candidates representing 44% were selected to teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects; 581 were shortlisted for core subjects; 370 for specialized areas; and 59 for technical subjects. The TESCOM portal has been updated for applicants to check their status.

    As part of the final stages of the recruitment process, all shortlisted applicants will undergo a mandatory drug test, to be conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). This measure, coordinated by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Abuse, Prevention and Control, Hon. Mukail Olamilekan Aileru, is to ensure that only candidates with sound mental and physical health are entrusted with the education of school children. The drug test is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 9, and end on Saturday, April 12, 2025. The Kwara State Government has fully covered the cost of the test.

    The NDLEA will forward the drug test results directly to the Commission to maintain the integrity of the process and guard against any form of tampering or forgery. In addition, shortlisted candidates are required to present medical certificates from a state-owned hospital, submit original copies of their credentials for verification, and hand in photocopies for documentation. They will also submit handwritten letters of acceptance of the job offer and sign a six-year bond not to seek transfers, especially from rural postings, as part of a strategic effort to address the shortage of teachers in underserved areas.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, has been commended for his insistence on a merit-based, transparent process free of political interference. The Commission noted that his leadership has once again set a new standard in public service recruitment, restoring trust in government and proving that competence and character remain the key criteria in public appointments. This policy direction, the statement added, reinforces the Governor’s commitment to building a quality and inclusive education system in the state.

    The Commission encouraged successful applicants to begin their documentation in line with their scheduled drug test dates at the TESCOM headquarters in Ilorin. It also acknowledged the participation of indigenes, non-indigenes, and 31 persons living with disabilities (PLWDs), all of whom made the shortlist on merit.

  • Kwara Government Upgrades Omu Aran Hospital to Teaching Facility for Thomas Adewumi University

    Kwara Government Upgrades Omu Aran Hospital to Teaching Facility for Thomas Adewumi University

    …Move aims to boost healthcare delivery and medical education through strategic public-private partnership in Kwara South.

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to upgrade the Omu Aran General Hospital into a teaching hospital for the medical students of Thomas Adewumi University (TAU), Oko, located in Irepodun Local Government Area.

    The initiative, expected to produce more quality health professionals—including medical officers and other specialists—was described as another bold move by the administration to deepen its collaboration with private institutions for enhanced healthcare delivery across the state.

    This is not the first time the state is embarking on such a partnership. Last year, it signed a similar MoU with Al-Hikmah University, allowing the institution to use the newly upgraded Sobi Specialist Hospital in Ilorin as a teaching hospital to aid its medical course accreditation process.

    The MoU signing ceremony with TAU drew senior government officials, traditional rulers, top academics, and other stakeholders from the health and education sectors.

    Present at the event were Commissioner for Health Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam; Commissioner for Communications Hon. Bola Olukoju; Chairman of Irepodun Local Government Hon. Yakub AbdulAzeez; Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Hospital Management Board Dr. Abdulraheem Malik; Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Rafiu Ajakaye; APC chieftain Oloriewe Raheem Adedoyin; Founder and Chancellor of TAU Dr. Thomas Adewumi; TAU Vice Chancellor Prof. Francisca Oladipo; representative of the Acting Head of Service Dr. Okedare Adeyinka; Vice Chancellor of Al-Hikmah University Prof. Nuah Yusuf; Vice Chancellor of Ahman Pategi University Prof. Kazeem Bolagbade; and Prof. Suleiman Kuranga, among others.

    Also in attendance were prominent traditional rulers including the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismaila Yahya Alebiosu; the Olomu of Omu Aran, Oba Raheem Oladele Olaoti; the Olupako of Share, Oba Olawale Haruna Ilufemiloye; and the Oloko of Oko-Irese, Oba Victor Olawuyi.

    In her keynote address, Dr. El-Imam described the event as another milestone in strengthening the state’s health system. She praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his proactive leadership, saying he consistently outperforms even his own development targets across sectors.

    The Commissioner highlighted the administration’s recent recruitment of 1,005 health professionals—including doctors, nurses, and midwives—the ongoing process to implement the new CONMESS salary structure, various facility upgrades, and the establishment of the Kwara State Teaching Hospital.

    “To the glory of God, I have been privileged to work in America, the United Kingdom, and Nigeria, and nowhere in the world have I seen a sector completely run by the government that succeeded,” she said. “It takes a forward-thinking, visionary, and dynamic personality like Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to know the limit and seek the collaboration and support of the private sector. This is what is at play here today.”

    Speaking on behalf of the people of Kwara South, Oba Ismail Alebiosu commended the Governor for the historic gesture. He noted that with the recent commissioning of the Osi Campus of KWASU and multiple road projects in the region, the Governor had shown he was committed to equitable development across the state.

    “We have never had it this good in our region,” he said. “This is another big one. It shows that he is a Governor for the whole of Kwara State. We are grateful to him.”

    Oba Alebiosu also praised Dr. Thomas Adewumi as a “fantastic problem solver and a pride of the region,” acknowledging his efforts toward the growth of the university and his broader humanitarian contributions.

    The Olomu of Omu Aran, Oba Raheem Olaoti, said the project signifies improved healthcare delivery in Kwara South and described the Governor’s approach to governance as a continuation of progress rather than abandonment of inherited projects.

    “This gesture shows the government is bringing healthcare to the people of Kwara South, which also means bringing life to us,” he said.

    In his remarks, Dr. Adewumi expressed deep appreciation to the Governor for his inclusive leadership and commitment to fairness, saying the Governor’s support for TAU reflects his genuine love for the people of Kwara State, including those in the southern region.

  • Nigeria’s Painful Path to Progress: Are We Ready to Face the Truth?

    Nigeria’s Painful Path to Progress: Are We Ready to Face the Truth?

    By Abayomi Odunowo

    When Nigeria adopted the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) in 1985, the echoes of its ramifications began to reverberate through every sector of the economy. As foreign companies exited en masse, the nation spiraled into a crisis rooted in economic mismanagement and a fundamental failure to build a productive economy. The grim reality is that we have spent an estimated $1.5 billion daily subsidizing fuel, endeavoring to artificially prop up the Naira against the dollar. What was the endgame of such ill-fated strategies? Did we believe that endless financial gymnastics could buoy a sinking ship? The ensuing consequences have laid bare the painful truth: our evasive tendencies have led us to the precipice of national disaster.

    The trajectory became even more alarming as internal corruption and insecurity began rendering vast swathes of the nation ungovernable. Billions were looted from the coffers of the state, epitomized by the Dasuki scandal, yet we remained collectively blind to the consequences. When Boko Haram sought to overrun extensive regions in Borno, claiming dominion over four northern states, we expected merely a temporary aberration in our peace. Similarly, the escalating conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and farmers in Benue should have spelled the warning for imminent chaos. Did we not contemplate the futility of our neglect? The emergence of banditry, the paralysis of the Southeast economy by Biafra agitators, and the rampant vandalization of pipelines have culminated in a catastrophic erosion of both public trust and national wealth. Did we truly think that such a confluence of misfortunes would not yield dire repercussions?

    These issues, deeply entrenched in Nigeria’s socio-political fabric, did not materialize overnight. They are the harvest of decades of negligence, corruption, and systemic failures that have been allowed to fester. Can we genuinely ascribe all this turmoil solely to the current administration? The question warrants a nuanced discussion.

    As Nigeria grapples with the dire consequences of economic mismanagement, the recent shifts under President Tinubu’s leadership have sparked both criticism and debate. The elimination of fuel subsidies has stripped bare the façade of financial wellness, revealing the deeper malaise that has plagued the nation for years. We now find ourselves at a crucial juncture, where vulnerability and adversity demand reflection and action. Yet, as we endure this hardship, one must ask: who among the cacophony of critics possesses the intellectual rigor, global financial insight, and fortitude to make the kind of daunting decisions that Tinubu has dared to enact?

    This is a pivotal moment—an inflection point that juxtaposes pain with necessity. It is easy to castigate leaders for decisions that ignite discomfort, yet it requires exceptional courage and vision to confront hard truths and embrace the transformative processes essential for recovery. The question remains: are we ready to face the reality of our circumstances? Are we genuinely prepared to rise to the occasion, understanding that the journey forward will demand sacrifice and unity?

    Today, we stand amidst economic disarray, the era of financial cushioning is definitively over. The pain we endure is not merely hardship; it is a price we are compelled to pay for decades of neglect and mismanagement. As we forge ahead, it is imperative to recognize that the solutions will not emerge from superficial band-aids but from profound systemic changes rooted in accountability, transparency, and revitalization of our productive sectors.

    While the current milieu of hardship feels insurmountable, there lies a silver lining: just as gold must undergo fire to emerge in radiant splendor, Nigeria, too, must navigate this crucible of challenges to reclaim its rightful place on the world stage. We are at a crossroads; the urgent call for introspection and decisive action is paramount. We can no longer afford to point fingers while remaining immovably entrenched in our own inertia. It is essential to coalesce as a nation, wielding our collective strength and determination to rebuild.

    In doing so, we must embrace a steadfast commitment to truth, reform, and resilience. The path may be agonizing, but it is a journey we must undertake to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for generations yet to come. Are we ready to embrace this truth? Only time will tell, but the opportunity for renewal is before us, waiting for the courage to act.

    Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
    National Chairman AATSG
    Mobile: +2349053535322
    AATSG Media.

    URL: www.AATSG.org.ng
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  • President Tinubu Reconstitutes NNPC Board, Appoints Engr. Bashir Ojulari as Group CEO

    President Tinubu Reconstitutes NNPC Board, Appoints Engr. Bashir Ojulari as Group CEO

    … Gov AbdulRazaq Hails Appointment, Commends President for Honouring Kwara

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a sweeping reconstitution of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited board, appointing Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) and Ahmadu Musa Kida as the Non-Executive Chairman. This restructuring, effective April 2, 2025, aims to enhance operational efficiency, restore investor confidence, and advance Nigeria’s energy sector.

    Engr. Ojulari, a distinguished engineer from Kwara State, brings decades of experience in the oil and gas industry. Prior to his appointment, he was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company. Under his leadership, Renaissance spearheaded the landmark $2.4 billion acquisition of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), a deal that reshaped the country’s oil sector.

    A graduate of Mechanical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Ojulari began his career as the first Nigerian process engineer at Elf Aquitaine before joining Shell Petroleum Development Company in 1991. Over the years, he held various strategic positions in Nigeria, Europe, and the Middle East, serving as a petroleum process and production engineer, strategic planner, field developer, and asset manager. In 2015, he became the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO).

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State hailed the appointment of Engr. Ojulari as a remarkable honour for the state, expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing the contributions of Kwarans to national development.

    “On behalf of the people and government of Kwara State, I express our profound appreciation to Mr. President for these A-list appointments. We are very proud to be an integral part of the President’s team,” the Governor stated.

    “Our prayers, best wishes, and support are with Engr. Ojulari and the new NNPC leadership. With his vast experience and the backing of stakeholders, we are confident that he will take the oil sector to greater heights. We pray that his tenure records unprecedented success in driving investment, increasing oil and gas production, and ensuring a stronger NNPC.”

    President Tinubu has tasked the new board with executing an ambitious energy agenda, including a strategic review of NNPC-operated and Joint Venture assets to maximize value. His administration is targeting $30 billion in new oil sector investments by 2027 and $60 billion by 2030, while aiming to boost crude oil production to 2 million barrels per day by 2027 and 3 million barrels per day by 2030. Similarly, gas production is set to increase to 8 billion cubic feet per day by 2027 and 10 billion cubic feet per day by 2030.

    Additionally, NNPC’s refining capacity is expected to grow, with the goal of increasing its share of crude oil refining output to 200,000 barrels per day by 2027 and 500,000 barrels per day by 2030.

    President Tinubu thanked the outgoing NNPC leadership, including former Group CEO Mallam Mele Kyari and Chairman Chief Pius Akinyelure, for their service, particularly their efforts in reviving the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries. He wished them success in their future endeavours.

    With Engr. Ojulari now at the helm of NNPC, stakeholders anticipate a new era of innovation, investment, and progress in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

  • Flow FM 92.7 Unveils NextGen: A Bold New Radio Show Amplifying Youth Voices

    Flow FM 92.7 Unveils NextGen: A Bold New Radio Show Amplifying Youth Voices

    … Brenda Vinning to host


    In a bid to provide a dedicated platform for young people to engage in thought-provoking discussions, share ideas, and express their perspectives on issues that shape their lives, Flow FM 92.7 has announced the launch of its newest radio show, NextGen. Set to debut on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, at 11 AM, NextGen will be a dynamic and engaging program designed to empower youth voices and bring fresh conversations to the airwaves. The show will be hosted by Brenda Vinning, a passionate communicator committed to fostering meaningful discourse.

    With a mission to give young people a space where their ideas, challenges, and aspirations are heard and taken seriously, NextGen is poised to become a hub for insightful conversations on diverse topics, including technology, career development, education, entrepreneurship, social issues, culture, entertainment, and the latest trends shaping the world. Unlike conventional radio programs that often dictate the narrative, NextGen will be highly interactive, allowing listeners to shape discussions, ask questions, and share their thoughts in real time.

    The radio show will embrace an unfiltered, no-holds-barred approach, ensuring that conversations remain authentic, raw, and impactful. Rather than presenting polished and overly scripted discussions, the program will delve into real-life stories, experiences, and pressing concerns that resonate with young people in Nigeria and beyond. The goal is to spark engaging debates, challenge conventional thinking, and inspire actionable change among listeners.

    Brenda Vinning, the host of the show, expressed her excitement about the project, emphasizing the need for a dedicated youth-driven platform that allows for open dialogue and deep engagement. “NextGen is more than just a radio show; it is a movement for young voices to be heard, a space where we can have real conversations about the things that matter most to us. We’re not just talking; we’re making an impact,” she said.

    Listeners will have the opportunity to participate in the show by calling in or sending messages via WhatsApp at 0807-777-9927. In addition, those with inspiring stories or unique perspectives will have the chance to be featured as guests, further reinforcing the show’s commitment to inclusivity and diverse representation.

    Flow FM 92.7 recognizes the critical role of young people in shaping the future and is committed to providing a platform that reflects their voices, challenges, and aspirations. With Nigeria’s youth making significant strides in various fields, NextGen aims to amplify their contributions while fostering informed, constructive, and solution-driven conversations.

    The show’s launch marks an exciting milestone for Flow FM 92.7 as it continues to evolve its programming to reflect the dynamic and ever-changing media landscape. By catering to young audiences and addressing topics that resonate with them, the station is reaffirming its commitment to progressive and impactful broadcasting.

    Listeners are encouraged to tune in every Saturday at 11 AM on Flow FM 92.7 to be part of the conversation, gain insights from thought leaders and peers, and contribute to discussions that matter. Follow @flowfm927 on social media for updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.

  • KWIRS Engages Tertiary Institutions on Financial Sustainability, Revenue Growth

    KWIRS Engages Tertiary Institutions on Financial Sustainability, Revenue Growth

    … Stakeholders meet to strategize on boosting financial independence in Kwara’s higher institutions

    #KwaraRising …

    As part of its strategic efforts to enhance the financial sustainability of tertiary institutions in Kwara State, the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) recently convened a stakeholders’ meeting focused on improving financial transactions and boosting revenue generation within these institutions.

    The meeting, held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, brought together bursars from all state-owned tertiary institutions to discuss alternative revenue strategies and self-sufficiency measures.

    Declaring the meeting open, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering commitment to advancing education in the state.

    She highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the Governor, including the approval and release of funds for accreditation processes, clearance of outstanding staff salaries, and ongoing financial support through bailout funds for tertiary institutions.

    “These efforts have collectively fostered significant progress and academic stability across the state’s higher education sector,” she stated.

    According to her, “The government cannot remain passive while students are out of school. That is why we continually invest in education.” She urged the institutions to complement the government’s efforts by working towards financial self-sustainability, stressing the importance of financial independence in fulfilling their obligations.

    In her remarks, the Executive Chairman of KWIRS, Mrs. Shade Omoniyi, outlined the objectives of the meeting, which included advising institutions on alternative revenue generation strategies, promoting self-sufficiency, and fostering collaborations to enhance overall revenue growth. She emphasized that these efforts align with Governor AbdulRazaq’s broader vision for educational excellence in Kwara State.

    “This collaborative initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the financial frameworks of the state’s tertiary institutions, ensuring their sustainability and continued contributions to the educational development of Kwara,” Mrs. Omoniyi stated.

    The meeting saw active participation from bursars representing various institutions across the state, including: Kwara State University, Malete; Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin; Kwara State College of Nursing Science, Ilorin; Kwara State College of Nursing Science, Oke-Ode; and Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin.

    Others present were representatives from Kwara State College of Education, Oro; Kwara State College of Education (Technical), Lafiagi; Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa; International Vocational, Technical, and Entrepreneurship College, Ajase-Ipo; Kwara State Aviation College, Ilorin; and Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies, Ilorin.

  • Kwara’s Healthcare Revolution: Fixing the Failures of the Past

    Kwara’s Healthcare Revolution: Fixing the Failures of the Past

    by Babajide Fadoju

    For far too long, the healthcare sector in Kwara State suffered from the neglect and mismanagement of past administrations. Up until the most recent tenure, the state’s medical training system was left to rot. Facilities deteriorated, accreditation was lost, and young people who aspired to become healthcare professionals were left stranded. It was a damning legacy of abandonment that forced many Kwarans to seek training opportunities elsewhere, draining the state of potential and talent.

    That dark era has finally ended.

    Under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Kwara State has reclaimed its place as a serious player in the healthcare sector. The recent approval by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to allow Sobi Specialist Hospital, Ilorin, and General Hospital, Offa, to train nursing interns is nothing short of a landmark achievement. For the first time, Kwara will be able to groom its own nurses rather than watching them leave for other states in search of training opportunities. This is not just about infrastructure; this is about restoring dignity to a profession that had been disregarded by previous administrations.

    A Legacy of Neglect

    Let’s be clear: the decay did not happen overnight. The previous political leaders had nearly two decades to build a robust healthcare training system, but they failed spectacularly. Instead of investing in critical manpower development, they focused on politics of patronage, leaving the healthcare sector in shambles. Nursing schools struggled for accreditation, hospitals lacked the personnel to provide quality care, and patients bore the brunt of a failed system.

    The absence of proper training institutions meant that Kwara had to rely heavily on importing medical personnel from other states. The result? A fragile, unsustainable system that left communities vulnerable. It was an avoidable crisis, but past leaders simply didn’t care enough to fix it.

    A New Dawn Under AbdulRazaq

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration has rewritten the script. Unlike his predecessors, he recognizes that investing in healthcare is not just about building hospitals—it’s about ensuring those hospitals are staffed with well-trained professionals.

    His administration’s efforts in securing accreditation for the training of both pharmacy and nursing interns speak volumes. For the first time, Kwara’s young, aspiring nurses have a homegrown path to professional excellence. This means better healthcare services, reduced brain drain, and greater employment opportunities within the state.

    And it doesn’t stop at nursing. Governor AbdulRazaq has prioritized the overall revitalization of the health sector, from equipping hospitals to improving staff welfare. The government has been intentional about fixing dilapidated health centers, upgrading medical equipment, and recruiting more healthcare workers. This is governance that works. This is leadership that cares.

    What This Means for Kwara’s Future

    The implications of this achievement cannot be overstated. With an expanded capacity to train nurses and other medical professionals, Kwara is positioning itself as a healthcare hub in Nigeria. In the coming years, we can expect:

    ● Improved healthcare delivery: More trained nurses mean better patient care across the state.

    ● Job creation: Young people who previously had to leave for other states can now build their careers right here at home.

    ● Economic growth: A well-functioning healthcare sector attracts investment and boosts the local economy.

    ● A healthier population: With better-trained personnel, health outcomes will improve, saving lives and reducing preventable deaths.

    The Future is Bright

    Governor AbdulRazaq is proving, time and again, that good governance is about making real changes that impact lives. The accreditation of Kwara’s hospitals for nursing internships is not just another policy move; it is a bold step toward securing the state’s future.

    Kwara’s healthcare sector is on the rise, and for the first time in decades, we can say with confidence that the future looks promising. The failures of the past are being corrected, and under AbdulRazaq’s leadership, Kwara is finally getting the healthcare system it deserves.

  • International Aviation College Ilorin Graduates 19 Pilots, Including 10 Nigerian Army Officers

    International Aviation College Ilorin Graduates 19 Pilots, Including 10 Nigerian Army Officers

    … Governor AbdulRazaq Highlights Discipline, Teamwork as Key to Success

    #KwaraRising

    The International Aviation College (IAC) Ilorin has marked a historic milestone by graduating 19 student pilots, including 10 enrollees from the Nigerian Army—the highest number of military trainees in the institution’s history.

    Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Friday, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized the importance of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork in achieving success. Represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Saadatu Modibbo-Kawu, the Governor congratulated the graduates and commended the partnership between the College and the Nigerian Army.

    “It’s been six months of rigorous training that got you here. You have learned a lot within the period, from perseverance to discipline and teamwork. You must sustain these to succeed,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated.

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Brigadier General Ezra Barkins of the 22 Armoured Brigade Nigerian Army Sobi, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to strengthening its aviation unit. He noted that the training will enhance the Nigerian Army’s air mobility and reconnaissance capabilities, contributing to national security efforts.

    “As you graduate today, embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth. With perseverance and resilience, you will go beyond the sky. Exhibit the core values of the Nigerian Army, remain focused, and build a legacy that will endure throughout history,” Brigadier General Barkins charged the new pilots.

    The Rector of IAC, Captain Yakubu Okahtai, highlighted the significance of the Private Pilot License (PPL) training, describing it as a gateway to advanced aviation careers. He praised the Kwara State Government for its unwavering support, stating that the collaboration with the Nigerian Army has laid a strong foundation for future training programs.

    One of the standout graduates, Musa Aliu Damilola, gained recognition after building mini aircraft and drones three years ago. He expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for sponsoring his aviation education.

    “I appreciate His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for supporting my dream. I never expected to be here today, but here I am, graduating with my PPL and pursuing my Commercial Pilot License (CPL). He made my dream come true,” Musa said.

    Speaking on behalf of the graduating pilots, Lieutenant Smart Ebube Aghogho acknowledged the rigorous training and expressed appreciation to the instructors and the Nigerian Army for the opportunity.

    “This marks the culmination of months of hard work, perseverance, dedication, and rigorous training. We have overcome countless challenges, from sleepless nights of studying to weekend flying and cross-country navigation,” he said.

    The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Barrister Sabitiyu Grillo; Registrar of the College, Titilayo Sulaiman Wopa; and flight instructors.

    Since March 2022, the International Aviation College Ilorin has graduated 62 students, solidifying its reputation as a leading aviation training institution in Nigeria.

  • Kwara Govt Urges Unity, Prayers for State as Muslims Mark Eid

    Kwara Govt Urges Unity, Prayers for State as Muslims Mark Eid

    …Emir prays for Gov AbdulRazaq, commends administration’s strides

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government has called on Muslims to uphold the values of unity, peace, and kindness as they celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, urging them to continue praying for the progress of the state and the nation.

    Speaking after the Eid prayers at the Ilorin Central Praying Ground, the leader of the government delegation and Majority Leader of the Kwara House of Assembly, Hon. Abdulkadir Oba Magaji, emphasized the importance of sustaining the virtues of Ramadan.

    . “We urge all Kwarans and Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan. We should be our brothers’ keepers, be peaceful in our conduct, and pray for the stability of Kwara State and Nigeria at large,” he said.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who traditionally leads the state delegation, was absent as he is currently in Saudi Arabia performing the Lesser Hajj.

    Magaji also reaffirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor AbdulRazaq, expressing confidence in their leadership.

    The Eid prayers were led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Solihu, and attended by the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Council, Mai-Martaba Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, alongside top government officials and community leaders.

    The Emir congratulated the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan and commended the administration’s commitment to peace and development.

    He also prayed for Governor AbdulRazaq’s safe return from the holy land, while APC chieftain Alhaji Yahya Seriki urged continued support for the present administration to sustain its achievements.

  • Tinubu Appoints Dr. Ibrahim Oloriegbe as NHIA Chairman

    Tinubu Appoints Dr. Ibrahim Oloriegbe as NHIA Chairman

    … Governor AbdulRazaq hails appointment, thanks President Tinubu

    #KwaraRising

    President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe as the Chairman of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) for an initial term of four years. The appointment, which took effect on March 11, 2025, is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s health insurance system and improve access to affordable healthcare.

    Dr. Oloriegbe, a former Senator representing Kwara Central in the 9th Senate, is a seasoned medical professional with vast experience in healthcare policy and administration. He previously served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and the Joint National Assembly Committee on Health, playing a key role in advancing health sector reforms.

    A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, with a degree in Medicine and Surgery, Oloriegbe also holds a Master’s in Coaching and Consultation from the University of Oxford, UK, and HEC, Paris. He is a member of various professional bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the International Aids Society (IAS), and the Africa Health Leadership and Management Network.

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has commended the appointment, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of Oloriegbe’s passion for the health sector and his track record of excellence. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the honor done to the people of Kwara State and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    “The appointment perfectly fits Senator Oloriegbe, given his background as a medical professional, his achievements in the health sector, and his dedication to improving healthcare services,” the Governor said.

    Governor AbdulRazaq expressed confidence that Oloriegbe will bring his wealth of experience, network, and goodwill to strengthen the NHIA and make it more beneficial to Nigerians. He also prayed for the Senator’s success in his new role and urged all stakeholders in the healthcare sector to support him.