Kwara Rising

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  • Oludofian’s Death a Great Loss to Idofian, Says Governor AbdulRazaq

    Oludofian’s Death a Great Loss to Idofian, Says Governor AbdulRazaq

    … Governor mourns monarch’s passing, prays for peace and comfort for family and community

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Oludofian of Idofian, His Royal Highness Oba Muhammed Jamiu Omikunle II, describing the monarch’s passing as a significant loss to the community and the state.

    In a condolence message issued on Wednesday, the Governor commiserated with the people of Idofian in Ifelodun Local Government Area and the royal family, noting that the late monarch was a symbol of peace and unity throughout his reign.

    “The transition of His Royal Highness Oba Muhammed Jamiu Omikunle II is an incalculable loss to the people of Idofian and Kwara State. He was a man of peace who served his community with dignity and calm strength. His short reign was marked by remarkable stability, respect for tradition, and a strong commitment to the development of his domain,” the Governor said.

    AbdulRazaq urged the people of Idofian and members of the royal family to take comfort in the late monarch’s legacy and accept his passing as an act of God. He acknowledged the void the monarch leaves behind, but encouraged the community to remain united and uphold the values of peace and togetherness that defined his reign.

    He also offered prayers for the repose of the monarch’s soul. “May Almighty Allaah grant Kabiyesi Al-jannah Firdaus and continue to strengthen his family and the good people of Idofian,” the Governor added.

    Oba Muhammed Jamiu Omikunle II, who held the title of a second-class traditional ruler, passed away after years of dedicated service to his people. His leadership was widely respected, and he was known for fostering harmony, supporting community initiatives, and maintaining strong ties with both the traditional institution and government.

    The Governor’s message was conveyed in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye.

  • Commissioner Applauds Governor AbdulRazaq’s Support for KWASU’s Growth

    Commissioner Applauds Governor AbdulRazaq’s Support for KWASU’s Growth

    …Says university is fast evolving into a model for innovation and entrepreneurship in higher education

    Kwara State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, has commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his consistent support towards the development of tertiary education, particularly for the enabling environment that has spurred the rapid transformation of Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.

    The Commissioner gave the commendation on Tuesday during a working visit to the university. She was accompanied by the Director of Continuing Education in the Ministry, Elder Afolayan Joseph Babatunde, and was received by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaykh Luqman Jimoh, along with other members of the university’s management.

    The visit, according to the Commissioner, is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen collaboration with tertiary institutions in the state.

    While touring key facilities at the institution, Kawu noted significant infrastructural and academic improvements since her last visit. She said the progress reflects the Governor’s commitment to building a self-sustaining and progressive higher education system.

    “The face of this university has completely changed since my last visit, and it is clear that these developments are possible because of the environment created by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. KWASU is becoming a model of innovation, and I commend the management and staff for aligning with the Governor’s vision,” she said.

    The Commissioner visited the university’s Entrepreneurship Centre, where students learn practical skills in tailoring, printing, soap and cosmetics production. She also toured the bakery, water and block-making factories, recycling plant, and smart farm—all of which are operated within the institution.

    She praised the university’s commitment to entrepreneurship and pledged the state government’s continued support. She assured the management that the Governor remains willing to intervene in areas that need government attention, especially where student and staff welfare is concerned.

    On security, Kawu stressed the importance of a safe learning environment and promised government action to address land encroachment around the university.

    She also disclosed that the Ilesha Baruba campus of KWASU is set to be commissioned before the next academic calendar begins, with key infrastructure already in place.

    Earlier in his remarks, Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaykh Luqman Jimoh thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for the administration’s steady support, which he said has enabled the university to grow in both student population and academic offerings.

    “KWASU is experiencing rapid growth, not just in student numbers but also in the range of academic programmes and infrastructure. We are doing our best to expand and improve our facilities to meet growing demand,” he said.

    He also appealed for government support to address land encroachment issues and enhance security around the university’s host community to protect students living off campus.

  • Kwara Commissioner Calls for End to Cultural Barriers Hindering Women in Politics

    Kwara Commissioner Calls for End to Cultural Barriers Hindering Women in Politics

    …Says traditions should not be used to silence women, commends Governor AbdulRazaq’s inclusive leadership

    Kwara State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, has called for a deliberate cultural shift to remove long-standing societal barriers that limit women’s participation in politics and leadership.

    Speaking on A Place on the Table, a weekly radio programme on Gerin FM 95.5 Ilorin, the Commissioner said it was time for communities to move beyond cultural norms that discourage women from contributing fully to governance and public life.

    The programme, sponsored by UN Women in partnership with the Royal Heritage Health Foundation, is focused on promoting gender inclusion and amplifying women’s voices in politics.

    “Women must stand shoulder to shoulder, supporting one another in the pursuit of our collective progress,” she said, urging women across the region to get more involved in political processes—whether through voting, advocacy, or contesting for office.

    According to Kawu, achieving genuine inclusive development in Nigeria requires equal opportunities for women to engage in decision-making without being held back by tradition. “Our traditions and cultural beliefs should not be used as tools to silence women or exclude them from politics. As a society, we must evolve and acknowledge the critical role women play in governance, development, and peacebuilding,” she said.

    She praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for creating space for women in his administration, describing him as a leader who has shown genuine commitment to gender equity. “His actions continue to inspire confidence among women in Kwara State,” she added.

    Kawu pointed to the Governor’s appointment of several women to strategic positions as an example that should be emulated at all levels of government.

    She also highlighted the need for stronger mentorship structures and partnerships to support the emergence of future women leaders. “We need to build strong networks of support and mentorship for young women. Those of us in leadership must guide, empower, and prepare them to take up leadership roles,” she said.

    The Commissioner called on development partners, civil society organisations, and women leaders to collaborate in creating more opportunities for women in governance.

  • Kwara Positioned for Agricultural Prosperity – Agric Commissioner

    Kwara Positioned for Agricultural Prosperity – Agric Commissioner

    The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development in Kwara State, Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi, has described Kwara as a naturally endowed State with immense potential for agricultural growth, stating that beyond civil service, agriculture remains the most viable pillar of the State’s economy.

    Dr. Abolore made these remarks while addressing participants during a technical session and townhall meeting organized under the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) initiative in collaboration with the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC). The engagement focused on strengthening ease of doing business and unlocking sectoral opportunities.

    “Kwara is largely blessed in all that concerns agriculture. Our arable land, favorable climate, and strategic location between the North and South give the State a clear competitive edge in agricultural enterprise,” he stated.

    The Commissioner lauded the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his transformative urban renewal efforts and unwavering backing for agriculture, through empowerment programmes, provision of timely inputs, and sustained investment in rural development.

    “We have a Governor who is not just pro-agriculture but also proactive in ensuring our people—especially indigenous farmers—have what they need to thrive. This consistent commitment is why Kwara continues to gain ground in food production and agribusiness,” he said.

    He noted that reforms under SABER will further open up Kwara’s agribusiness space, reduce bottlenecks, and attract investment into rural enterprises.

    Dr. Abolore also encouraged members of the public to regularly engage with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to stay informed and benefit from ongoing initiatives. “We want people to take ownership of the opportunities available, by visiting the Ministry, asking questions, and registering for programmes. We are doing more to ensure every interested resident has a role to play in the sector.”

    He assured that the Ministry remains committed to advancing innovation, expanding access to inputs, and facilitating investments across the agricultural value chain to sustain growth and food security in the State.

    Ashaolu Omotola
    Press Secretary
    Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

  • Kwara Government Donates Modern Ultrasound Equipment to State University Teaching Hospital

    Kwara Government Donates Modern Ultrasound Equipment to State University Teaching Hospital

    …New facility expected to improve round-the-clock healthcare delivery in Ilorin

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government has donated a new set of modern ultrasound equipment and solar power accessories to the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Ilorin, to strengthen its capacity for 24-hour healthcare services.

    The presentation took place on Tuesday at the hospital premises. Representing the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Bola Ahmed, at the event was the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council, Dr. Idowu Ogunlaja.

    Dr. Ogunlaja described the donation as a landmark gesture by the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, saying it would significantly enhance the hospital’s ability to provide affordable and quality healthcare to residents of Kwara and neighbouring states.

    He praised the Governor’s commitment to healthcare development, describing the sector as key to the well-being of the people. “This is another milestone that reflects the government’s serious investment in the health of its citizens,” he said.

    Dr. Ahmed, through his representative, assured that the hospital would put the equipment to good use and ensure improved access to diagnostic services.

    The new items include a high-grade ultrasound scanning machine and solar panels with their accessories, designed to support continuous service delivery even during power outages.

    The event was attended by several hospital and government officials, including the Hospital Secretary, Mallam Yusuf Aliyu; a representative of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam; Mrs. Abdullah Fatimoh; Store Officer Mr. Karim Babatunde; and other KWASUTH staff.

  • Kwara Government Commissions Renovated Office for HIV/AIDS Control

    Kwara Government Commissions Renovated Office for HIV/AIDS Control

    …Facility to support SASCP and Society for Family Health operations in fight against HIV epidemic

    The Kwara State Government has unveiled a newly renovated six-room office space dedicated to enhancing the activities of the State AIDS and STIs Control Programme (SASCP) and the Society for Family Health (SFH).

    The facility, commissioned by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, is seen as a key step in the state’s ongoing efforts to achieve HIV epidemic control. She said the renovation was made possible through the Global Fund GC7 N-THRIP Grant, implemented by SFH as a sub-recipient to the HIV National Programme in partnership with the state Ministry of Health.

    Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Dr. El-Imam said the project will strengthen the coordination of HIV interventions in the state and provide a better working environment for health workers. She commended the collaboration between the Ministry, SFH, and development partners, noting that the new office will help improve efficiency and coordination in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

    “The newly renovated space will provide a more enabling environment for our teams. This is about sustainability and ensuring our health systems have the support they need to function effectively,” she said.

    The Commissioner reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing infrastructure that supports health programmes and interventions across Kwara.

    In his remarks, the Team Lead for the Society for Family Health in Kwara, Dr. Owen Omede, thanked the Commissioner for her consistent support and highlighted the importance of the new office. He said it will serve as a base for teams working on HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services.

    “This would not have been possible without your immense commitment to achieving HIV epidemic control. We are also grateful to the Director of Public Health and the SASCP team for their dedication,” Dr. Omede said.

    He added that the office would enhance the effectiveness of HIV response efforts and ensure Kwara stays on course in its fight to control and eventually end the HIV epidemic.  

  • Olukoju Urges Proper Documentation of Government Projects for Transparency and Accountability

    Olukoju Urges Proper Documentation of Government Projects for Transparency and Accountability

    ..Kwara Commissioner speaks at close of five-day training on documentary production for media and public officers

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bola Olukoju, has called on public officials and media professionals to prioritise the documentation of government activities to promote transparency, credibility, and proper record-keeping for future reference.

    Olukoju made the call in Ilorin on Thursday at the closing ceremony of a five-day training on documentary production, organised by the Kwara Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (Kwara L-PRES) in partnership with FOUR ICONS Premium Limited.

    Kwara L-PRES is a World Bank-assisted project under the State Ministry of Livestock Development aimed at improving livestock production and resilience across the state.

    Participants at the training included media professionals from different organisations and public offices, including the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Olayinka Fafoluyi Solace; Senior Special Assistant on Communication, Ibrahim Abdullateef; and Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mashood Abdulrafiu Agboola.

    Speaking to reporters, Olukoju said the training was timely and relevant, particularly in helping participants sharpen their storytelling skills and improve how they document and communicate government programmes.

    “Training in documentary production is the way to go because the power of documentation cannot be rivaled. The art of storytelling is how we get our story out. We don’t want governance to be something people think is just cooked up — we want it to have a human angle,” she said.

    She highlighted key lessons from the training, including the use of pictures and progress reports to tell compelling stories, and how artificial intelligence can help amplify creativity. “AI won’t take away your job. It enhances what you already know. As a creative tool, it’s something you must learn to work with,” she added.

    Olukoju, who also took part in the training, thanked Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for supporting the initiative and for his vision on digital inclusion in governance.

    Also speaking at the event, Kwara State L-PRES Coordinator Olusoji Oyawoye said the project has trained over 2,000 stakeholders so far, including livestock farmers, butchers, abattoir workers, and agricultural extension agents.

    Topics covered in past trainings, he said, include ruminant and crop residue usage, bull fattening, fodder production, meat handling protocols, occupational health and safety, and climate-smart agriculture.

    Oyawoye commended Governor AbdulRazaq for providing the support needed to achieve success in implementing the L-PRES project. He also encouraged media professionals to continue reporting on the project’s work to keep the public informed and engaged.

    Aishat Onusi, a resource person from FOUR ICONS Premium Limited, said proper documentation is critical to the success of any development project.

    “In development work, documentation is not just about keeping records. It is a proof of work done, evidence of impact, and the basis for learning and accountability,” she said. “Without it, efforts risk being forgotten or duplicated.”

  • Kwara Deploys Military, Forest Guards to Combat Criminal Gangs

    Kwara Deploys Military, Forest Guards to Combat Criminal Gangs

    …Governor Briefs Lafiagi Leaders on Security Measures

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has outlined comprehensive security operations targeting criminal hideouts in Edu and Ifelodun local government areas. During a meeting with Lafiagi community leaders in Ilorin, the Governor revealed joint military and forest guard deployments to rout violent gangs from forested areas.

    The security strategy, developed with the Office of the National Security Adviser, will see newly trained forest guards support sustained army operations in Kwara North and South. “These operations aim to permanently dislodge criminals while preventing their relocation to other areas,” stated a government release.

    Governor AbdulRazaq acknowledged residents’ concerns during discussions with the Lafiagi Descendants’ Development Union, led by Dr. Abdullahi Jibril Mohammed. He emphasized that security operations require meticulous planning for lasting success.

    The measures follow increased criminal activities in border communities, with authorities identifying specific settlements in Ifelodun, Edu, and Patigi as operational targets. The government assures residents of ongoing coordination with security agencies to restore peace.

  • Kwara Makes History with First-Ever National School Debate Victory

    Kwara Makes History with First-Ever National School Debate Victory

    …Education Reforms Bear Fruit as Students Outshine Rivals

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State has claimed its maiden national title at the 2025 President’s Senior School Debate Competition, defeating contenders from across Nigeria in the 26th edition held in Abeokuta. The four-member team triumphed over Rivers State in the finals, marking a watershed moment for education in Kwara.

    Education Commissioner Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe welcomed the champions on Friday, crediting Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s education transformation agenda for the breakthrough. “This victory validates our investments in teacher welfare and curriculum enhancement,” he stated, praising the team’s coaches and supporting educators.

    The winning squad featured Moshood Kamaldeen (Government Secondary School, Ilorin), Aishat AbdulAzeez (Nawarudeen Secondary School, Offa), Mutasir AbdulAzeez (St. Anthony Secondary School), and Maryam Usman (Ilorin Grammar School), guided by teacher-coach Babatunde Amina Idowu.

    “This collective achievement belongs to every stakeholder advancing education in Kwara,” Olohungbebe remarked, urging the students to build on their success. The win comes three years after Kwara’s education sector overhaul began, demonstrating measurable academic excellence at national levels.

  • NGX Chairman and Petralon Energy CEO, Ahonsi Unuigbe, Strengthens Capital Market Ties with Dubai Financial Market

    NGX Chairman and Petralon Energy CEO, Ahonsi Unuigbe, Strengthens Capital Market Ties with Dubai Financial Market

    In a strategic move to deepen cross border capital market integration, the NGX Chairman and founder & CEO of Petralon Energy, Ahonsi Unuigbe, recently concluded a working visit to the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) last week.

    During high-level discussions, Ahonsi joined Hamed Ahmed Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Financial Market (DFM), and Joel Tilly, AVP of Business Development for Africa, to explore opportunities for strengthening the existing MOU between NGX and NASDAQ Dubai, with a special focus on supporting Nigerian corporates that are evaluating dual-listing structures.

    Since 2000, Dubai has undergone a remarkable transformation in the capital market, achieving over $1 trillion in combined market capitalisation by adopting a holistic approach that extends well beyond traditional exchange functions.

    Through disciplined, commercial execution, the focus has shifted from merely facilitating IPOs to actively driving post-listing company performance and creating sustainable value across the entire corporate lifecycle. This has resulted in a sophisticated investment ecosystem where capital supply far exceeds quality deal flow.

    Speaking on the opportunities ahead, Ahonsi noted; “The UAE presents a compelling case for African corporates, especially in the energy sector, with its advanced regulatory frameworks, deep capital markets, and strong sector expertise. At NGX, we are committed to leveraging these cross-border synergies to drive real value for both markets.”

    DFM’s strategic vision of building institutional capacity across regions aligns with NGX’s ambition to position Nigerian companies on the global stage. By providing increased access to capital, the collaboration aims to support indigenous companies in scaling operations, improving governance, and enhancing investor confidence.

    Ahonsi also added, “By bridging the information and access gap between Nigerian enterprises and international markets, we are laying the foundation for a stronger economic growth, investor participation, and long-term value creation”.

    While there was enthusiasm about the potential opportunities for value creation, the parties also acknowledged the need for significant improvement in UAE-Nigeria bilateral relations. Strengthening these relations is seen as a critical enabler to fully realize the opportunities by reducing barriers that currently hinder seamless collaboration and integration between the two countries.

    This engagement underscores NGX’s commitment to forging meaningful global partnerships that elevate the visibility and competitiveness of African markets in the global financial landscape.