…. Group Hails Governor’s Transformational Leadership and Commitment to Gender Equality
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The KwaraRising Team has joined the growing list of well-wishers congratulating Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, on his nomination for the prestigious World Best Governor Award at the upcoming United Nations Women CSW69 Assembly in New York.
In a statement released on Monday, the group described the recognition as a well-deserved honor, reflecting the governor’s exceptional leadership, dedication to inclusive governance, and relentless efforts in championing gender equality.
“This nomination is a moment of pride for all Kwarans, as it highlights Governor AbdulRazaq’s transformative impact on governance, youth empowerment, and women’s inclusion in decision-making,” the statement read.
The UN Women’s World Leadership Merit Award (WOLMA) recognizes leaders who have significantly contributed to gender equality and social justice. Governor AbdulRazaq’s policies, which have empowered women, increased their representation in government, and promoted sustainable development, have earned him widespread recognition, including the UN Women’s HE FOR SHE Award in the past.
A Global Spotlight on Kwara’s Progress
The KwaraRising Team emphasized that Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership has positioned Kwara State as a national model for good governance and inclusivity.
“Under his administration, Kwara has experienced unprecedented progress, from infrastructural development to human capital investments,” the group stated. “His policies are not only shaping the future of Kwara but also serving as a blueprint for governance across Nigeria.”
With the award ceremony set for March 20, 2025, at the UN Women CSW69 Assembly in New York, the nomination reinforces Kwara’s place on the global stage as a state committed to progressive governance and sustainable development.
The KwaraRising Team expressed confidence that this recognition would further propel Governor AbdulRazaq to continue his mission of building a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous Kwara.
As congratulations continue to pour in, Kwarans and Nigerians alike celebrate this remarkable achievement, acknowledging Governor AbdulRazaq as a leader dedicated to transformative governance and social equity.
… Kwara State Governor Recognized for Commitment to Gender Inclusion and Leadership
In what appears to be the most significant 65th birthday gift to His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Executive Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), the Award Committee for the World Leadership Merit Award (WOLMA) has proudly announced his nomination for the prestigious World Best Governor Award at the United Nations Women CSW69 Assembly in New York.
This highly esteemed recognition honors Governor AbdulRazaq for his exceptional contributions to advancing gender equality, particularly in implementing the Beijing Charter on women’s inclusion in politics. His efforts in championing female representation in governance have set a benchmark not just for Nigeria, but for leaders worldwide.
A Champion of Gender Equality and Governance
Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to women’s empowerment has earned him several accolades in the past, including the UN Women’s HE FOR SHE Award. As the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), he has consistently advocated for policies that promote gender balance, social equity, and inclusive governance. Under his leadership, Kwara State has become a national model for gender representation, with women occupying key positions in government, leadership, and business.
This upcoming recognition at the UN Women CSW69 Assembly on March 20, 2025, is a symbol of the progress made in Kwara State and beyond. It highlights his unwavering dedication to breaking barriers for women in governance and ensuring their active participation in decision-making.
As Kwara and the entire nation celebrate this historic nomination, it is clear that Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership is not just transforming lives today but laying the foundation for future generations. The award ceremony in New York will serve as a global platform to showcase Nigeria’s commitment to gender equality and progressive governance.
The Kwara State Geographic Information Services (KWGIS) has reiterated the importance of obtaining proper land use approvals before commencing any development project in the state.
The agency emphasized that securing such approvals is a legal requirement and warned that any failure to comply would result in penalties.
KWGIS Executive Chairman, ESV AbdulKareem Babatunde Sulyman, in a statement on Saturday, stressed that the agency has been conducting public awareness campaigns on radio to educate residents on the necessity of obtaining approvals before starting any construction.
“This is a basic requirement. Where individuals or even government agencies overlook or neglect these legal provisions, we have a duty not only to halt such developments but also to impose appropriate fines,” he said.
Sulyman cited The Pavilion, a project under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, as an example of a construction site that has not yet obtained the necessary approvals. He explained that all government projects—whether local, state, or federal—must secure these approvals before work begins.
“The Pavilion is a new construction, and appropriate approvals ought to have been sought before any work commenced. Since this has not been done, we have directed workers on site to comply with the necessary requirements before resuming work,” he stated.
The KWGIS chairman further noted that enforcing development control is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with urban planning regulations. He warned that the agency would not hesitate to take action against any illegal construction activities.
“At the moment, Peace Pharmaceutical along Asa Dam Bypass and HRA along Lubcon Road were carrying out large-scale construction without the required approvals. Both projects have been sealed off, and the developers have been directed to meet the legal requirements before continuing work,” he added.
KWGIS assured residents that its enforcement measures are in place to protect lives and property, ensuring that all developments in the state adhere to the necessary safety and regulatory standards.
Regardless of how they hide and downplay it every now and then, Kwarans already know Senator Saliu Mustapha is nursing the ambition to become Governor of Kwara State come 2027. While there is nothing strange in nursing an ambition, it is evil to play dangerous and cunning politics capable of tearing lineage apart, setting the Emirate for war, and destroying the party that gave you the platform to be whatever you are presently.
This barbaric politics is exactly what Mustapha and his team are playing, and it’s so foolhardy of them to think it can sail through. While it may give them emotive sympathy in the beginning, people will later come to see the truth, then it backfires heavily. Nobody likes to be taken for a ride!
Yesterday, we read reports (obviously from commissioned media outlets) of how the Sulu-Gambari Pavillion was stopped by the Kwara State Government. They slanted the story to give sympathy to the camp of the lawmaker. The truth later emerged when KW-GIS issued its official statement, that the project, facilitated by Mustapha, failed to follow due protocol and get necessary regulatory approvals.
I recall that this is not the first time. That was exactly what the senator’s camp did during the Gaa Aremu-Isale Jagun road construction. They bypassed the state authorities, but were quick to play the victim card.
It is even more laughable that after commissioning slanted media narratives to milk political capital and sympathy, the senator would formally come out to direct that the right thing be done. This is being clever by half. The development can only mean two things, and none is good for the image Mustapha is seeking for himself.
On the one hand, it could be interpreted to mean incompetence and mediocrity, which many political commentators had argued would characterise the representation of Mustapha. Isn’t he proving the assumption right with examples in these flagrant disregards for basic protocol and laws overtime, and what appears to be a lacklustre performance compared to the tempo set by his predecessor?
On the other hand, it could well be perceived as a mischief. You disregard protocol and regulations to curry public sympathy, and then later come out to acknowledge they were truly ignored. Now, that is impunity. Or does the senator and his team expect to get a special treatment? Saliu Mustapha should not forget he is a lawmaker; more reason he should follow laws and protocols. If as a lawmaker, you are too big to follow the laws, and basic rules and regulations, then you do not know your onions.
I must also underline that the political strategy of using the voice of Jacob and the hands of Esau is old-fashioned and dead-on-arrival. Everyone knows who does what. The senator should stop being a weakling and man up to his agenda. This desperation is now seen everywhere!
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Friday night accompanied Christian pilgrims from the state to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, to bid them farewell ahead of their journey to Jordan and Israel.
The visit, a routine gesture by the Governor, underscores his commitment to religious harmony and inclusivity in Kwara State. He interacted warmly with the pilgrims, exchanging pleasantries and receiving commendations for his humility and impactful governance across various sectors.
Addressing the intending pilgrims, Governor AbdulRazaq urged them to be good ambassadors of Kwara State and Nigeria, encouraging them to uphold discipline and integrity throughout their journey. His presence was met with enthusiastic applause, as the pilgrims expressed gratitude and offered prayers for his continued success in office.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop (Prof) Stephen Adegbite, lauded the Governor’s unwavering support for Christian programmes and initiatives, both in Kwara State and across the country.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Kwara State Christian Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Prof. Timothy Opoola, thanked the Governor for his benevolence and commitment to ensuring a smooth pilgrimage exercise. He also advised the pilgrims to adhere strictly to the regulations of their host countries and pilgrimage authorities.
The Christian pilgrims departed for Jordan at 10:45 p.m. on Friday night, carrying with them prayers and well-wishes from the Governor and the people of Kwara State.
… Hands Over Kampe Game Reserve to Federal Government
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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday inaugurated a steering committee to oversee the transfer of the Kampe Game Reserve to the Federal Government as a National Park.
The Governor also officially handed over the reserve, located in Patigi Local Government Area, to the Federal Government, following the presidential declaration of November 2020 and the subsequent passage by the National Assembly.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Ilorin, the Governor described the move as a significant step toward improving environmental conservation and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources.
“Today marks a crucial moment in our collective efforts. The inauguration of the Steering Committee is a fulfillment of the Federal Government’s roadmap for the transformation of the Kampe Game Reserve into a National Park,” the Governor said.
The committee, which consists of cabinet members, traditional leaders, and other senior citizens, has been tasked with guiding the transition process, bringing their expertise and experience to ensure a smooth and successful handover.
“Our commitment to this initiative stems from our desire to offer Kwara State greater opportunities for growth and development,” the Governor stated, as represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi.
“We aim to position our state on the global map for biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and the effective management of our natural and human resources.
“The Kampe Game Reserve, named after the Kampe River, is one of Kwara State’s natural treasures. It is a gift of nature, and we have a duty to preserve and enhance it for the benefit of future generations.”
Governor AbdulRazaq congratulated the committee members and encouraged them to actively contribute to the conservation of the Kampe National Park, ensuring it plays a key role in promoting sustainability for Nigeria’s future.
There is a reason Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Sardauna of Ilorin, enjoys his solo moves within or outside of the state capital: he, among other things, fears the genuflection and the praise-singing that may get in the way of his primary assignment if everyone is in the know.
That habit is grossly misunderstood, but he is contented with seeing things without the fillers and being able to focus on his work while attracting lesser attention to himself.
Like every human being, he welcomes being accorded his due without the praises that come with the political environment. He scoffs at sycophancy and purposeless exposure. Instead, he encourages constructive criticisms for better governance outcomes.
This attitude explains his disapproval of celebrations on his birthdays as a sitting Governor. He fears that the sudden celebration does not last and there is no basis encouraging it. This is fine, although there is a thin line between telling the story of an individual for posterity and buttering them up for whatever purpose.
Regardless, I am persuaded by Edward Said’s statement that ‘nations themselves are narrations. The power to narrate, or block other narratives from forming and emerging, is very important to culture’.
As he clocked 65 a few hours ago, bookmakers have a lot to document about the seventh democratic Governor of Kwara State whose tenure is synonymous with unmatched rebuilding and modernisation of the capital city Ilorin, rural development, youth and women empowerment, gender inclusion, and countless economic initiatives that have steadily put the people back to productive work.
Apart from his legacy projects, which are unrivalled in the history of the state, he has effected profound psychosocial reforms with his approach to governance, which many consider strange. His style and personal discipline have put government appointees on a leash.
Along with his no-siren movement and the spartan style, his decision to discontinue the everyday gathering and merriment in Government House, a relic of the past years, is a strong message that attention must now be paid to higher productivity.
A party chieftain recently told me: ‘That style appeared painful and distant at the beginning, but it is really reshaping the mindset of our people. Except for a few people, you hardly see any crowd hanging around the party secretariat these days except during important events. It is a good thing. It simply tells our people to do something much more meaningful, rather than loitering around politicians. It is good for everyone as it restores the dignity of the human person, and I hope his successor does the same.’
The Governor is very nostalgic about the Ilorin of his childhood. He strongly believes in restoring sanity to the GRA, especially — devoid of the health-shattering loud disco music in the evenings— and much of what ought to constitute the central business district of the capital city. A story is told of an old couple who complained that their health had deteriorated with some unhealthy practices within the GRA, a narrative that apparently aligns with his sentiment.
This is a reason he feels that the Kwara Hotel, a fit-for-purpose relaxation facility outside of residentials, must regain its status along with other well-located premium hospitality facilities in the state. This is a critical public health issue, as it is about appropriate land use and sustainable living.
His reforms are not without its critics. Yet true leaders, once convinced of the genuineness of their actions, should not fear being heckled. The sense of pride and the excitement with which Kwarans have received the new look of the capital city have drowned out the criticisms from the political opposition.
Abdulrazaq is a typical leader trapped at the intersection of history, the current realities of the digital age, and the capacity of his own people, Kwarans. This is why his decisions are mostly dictated by the geography, demography, and history of the state, sometimes ruffling feathers.
Restoring the proper land use and aesthetics of the GRA and environs reflects his interrogation of history, such as the location and naming of the Sugar Factory film studios to remind younger generations of the Tate & Lyle. The garment factory, the largest in Nigeria in one single location, brought to memory the legacy of cloth-making and enterprise for which Kwarans were known, while the bespoke Innovation Hub speaks to his understanding of how technology has redesigned how we live in this century.
Governor Abdulrazaq understands that Kwara has one of the largest concentration of shea trees in the country, explaining his establishment of two factories in Kaiama and Baruten in the shea belt, the former being one of the biggest in the country.
He is currently rebuilding the Patigi Motel to resuscitate the regatta, a dream now strengthened by the establishment of the Kampe National Park in the same axis. The Governor is fascinated by the successes of the Okin Biscuits in Offa and Jebba paper mills, but his dream for the two is hampered by boardroom politics and decay in which they are long trapped. The visual arts centre heralds his vision for creativity, tourism, and sports development, explaining the investment in the Owu Water Fall road, eight-winged squash court, international conference centre, and the resuscitation of the indoor sports hall, table tennis area, among others.
Along with dozens of rural roads that connect towns and agrarian communities, the Governor has recently delivered the Osi and Ilesha Baruba campuses of Kwara State University, a pointer to his effort to ensure statewide development and roll back rural urban migration.
The focus on Offa and Lafiagi Stadia this year will strengthen this effort, as would the ongoing Shonga ICT Centre and the upcoming rehabilitation of the Patigi Cultural Centre.
He believes that the capital city is filled up and growing informally. This has consequences for sustainable living in the future. The Ilorin smart city, his brainchild, is to allow for a well-planned physical development.
But his dreams will require a successor who views Kwara as a state in a race to fulfil its destiny, bolstered by its geography, culture, and the lofty aspirations of its people. From health, education, agribusiness, social protection, and infrastructure, his successor will be lucky to inherit a template to move faster, possibly less encumbered by the hugely entrenched prebendary politics that stared Abdulrazaq in the face.
His achievements are a new record breaker in the annals of Kwara. He has hired up to 8,600 teachers between 2019 and now, the highest that any (Kwara) administration has employed since 1999, while his KwaraLEARN continues to improve literacy, numeracy, and general learning outcomes.
Abdulrazaq’s handling of sensitive issues of national importance proves his bonafide as a true leader who, like Konrad Adenauer, prefers dialogue, strategic humility, consensus-building, and patience in place of grandstanding and media show. In deference to the President, whom he holds in high esteem, and in national interest, he convinced his colleagues of the need to work out a consensus tax policy for Nigeria. He had acted in the same way following the subsidy removal, the transitional difficulties, and the multifaceted responses to mitigate the effects on the public. He proved that such sensitive moments require leaders to act with extreme caution — a quality that speaks to his standing as the Sardauna of the southernmost emirate in Nigeria.
▪︎ Rafiu Ajakaye is Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
In an era where political leadership often seems to be detached from the everyday realities of citizens, there is a stark contrast presented by the leadership of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State. His tenure has consistently highlighted the importance of empathy, integrity, and a sincere commitment to serving the people. As members of the National and State Executive of the Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group gather to celebrate another year of his life, it is crucial to reflect on the immense value he brings to the table and how he stands as a beacon of hope for the masses.
Kwara State, like many regions across Nigeria, faces numerous challenges ranging from economic hardship, infrastructure deficits, and social injustices. It is often a struggle for the populace to find leadership that is not only approachable but actively seeks to uplift their quality of life. This is where Governor Abdulrazaq distinguishes himself. His life’s work has been characterized by genuine engagement with the needs of his constituents. For many citizens, he serves as a reminder of what compassionate governance should embody—forward-thinking policies that prioritize inclusivity, economic development, and social welfare.
As we celebrate the birthday of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, we honor not just a leader, but a committed visionary whose dedication has changed the landscape of governance in Kwara State. His administration is a testament to what it means to lead with empathy and sincere purpose. From initiatives aimed at boosting local economies to investments in education and health care, the Governor continues to reinforce the significance of social responsibility. He embodies a leadership style that not only addresses systemic issues but uplifts the hearts and spirits of the citizens by showing them that their voices truly matter.
On this special day, the National and State Executive members of the Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group express their heartfelt gratitude for the Governor’s unwavering commitment and dedication to the people of Kwara State. We celebrate his efforts, which resonate across the state, reminding us all of the importance of service, empathy, and integrity in leadership. May this birthday be a reflection of his impactful journey so far and an inspiring impetus for the continued progress of Kwara State. Happy birthday, Governor Abdulrahman! Your leadership is, indeed, a blessing to the people of Kwara.
… Governor gets commendation for continued support
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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved the recruitment of more staff to improve the quality of education and enhance security in public schools across the state. The Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) announced that the recruitment will focus on senior secondary schools, particularly in rural areas where there is a shortage of teachers.
TESCOM Chairman, Mallam Bello Tauheed Abubakar, stated that all applications must be submitted online, and only candidates who meet the required qualifications will be considered. Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education, a Bachelor of Science or Arts degree with a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, or a National Certificate in Education. Those who do not meet these requirements will not be invited for the test.
To ensure fairness and transparency, applicants must provide proof of their local government of origin and residence at different stages of the process. The recruitment process will include a Computer-Based Test, after which shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and peer teaching (practicum) at designated centers. The cutoff mark for the test will be determined after its completion.
In line with the state government’s commitment to combating drug abuse, all shortlisted applicants will undergo a mandatory drug test. This measure is aimed at ensuring that only individuals who meet high ethical and professional standards are employed in the education sector. The government has also set a maximum age limit of 35 years as of January 31, 2025, for applicants. Candidates whose behavior does not align with the expectations of a teacher and mentor will be disqualified at any stage of the process.
TESCOM has commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his continuous investment in education and his commitment to strengthening the public school system. The commission emphasized that this recruitment is another step toward improving learning outcomes and addressing the human resource gap in schools.
The application portal will be open from February 5 to February 14, 2025, at www.tescom.kwarastate.gov
At 65 years old, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is not just governing Kwara State—he is reshaping Nigeria’s creative industry. His administration’s landmark achievement, the Sugar Film Factory, is a testament to his commitment to positioning Kwara as a premier hub for movie production in West Africa.
The Sugar Film Factory: A Game-Changer for the Creative Industry
Located in Ilorin, Kwara State, the Sugar Film Factory is a state-of-the-art facility designed to elevate film, television, and photography production in Nigeria. With world-class infrastructure and cutting-edge technology, the studio provides a dedicated space for filmmakers, content creators, and media professionals to bring their visions to life.
Key Features of the Sugar Film Factory
• Cyclorama Studio – A seamless, curved background studio ideal for special effects and chroma keying, enabling high-quality green screen production.
• TV Production Studios – Two fully equipped studios designed for television production, ensuring that broadcast-quality content can be produced within the facility.
• Independent Film Production Studio – A large space designed for feature film production, with ample room for set construction and advanced equipment.
• Green Rooms & Makeup Facilities – Comfortable spaces for actors and crew to prepare and relax, ensuring smooth production workflow.
• Training Rooms – Dedicated spaces for filmmaking workshops, technical training, and creative development to nurture local talent.
• Photography Studios – Professional studios designed for portrait and commercial photography, equipped with advanced lighting and camera equipment.
• Co-Working Offices – Shared office spaces that encourage collaboration and networking among industry professionals.
• Canteen – A well-equipped cafeteria providing meals and refreshments for cast and crew.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s Achievements with the Sugar Film Factory
Governor AbdulRazaq’s vision for the Sugar Film Factory extends beyond just building infrastructure. His administration has ensured that the facility contributes significantly to the state’s creative economy.
1. Completion of a World-Class Film Studio
The full completion of the Sugar Film Factory is a major milestone in Kwara’s creative sector. The facility meets international production standards, making it an attractive destination for Nollywood and global filmmakers. 2. Creation of Jobs and Economic Growth The film industry is a major employer worldwide, and the Sugar Film Factory is playing its part in job creation. The facility has already generated over 100 direct jobs and more than 500 indirect jobs, benefiting actors, directors, cinematographers, set designers, and production crews. 3. Hosting Prestigious Events The 2024 Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards was successfully hosted at the Sugar Film Factory, attracting top filmmakers, actors, and investors to Kwara State. This event reinforced Kwara’s status as a leading location for entertainment and boosted tourism and business opportunities in the region. 4. Innovative Content Production: The ‘Dancinematic Universe’ The studio has already begun producing innovative content, including the “Dancinematic Universe”—a pioneering project that blends music videos with cinematic storytelling through dance. This unique approach is setting a new standard in African filmmaking. 5. Diversifying Kwara’s Economy Traditionally, Kwara’s economy has relied heavily on civil service employment. However, Governor AbdulRazaq’s investment in the creative industry is diversifying the state’s economic landscape, attracting investors, talent, and new business opportunities. 6. Empowering Local Talent and Filmmakers Recognizing the need for continuous skill development, the Sugar Film Factory features training rooms where young filmmakers can hone their craft. Workshops, masterclasses, and mentoring programs ensure that Kwara remains at the forefront of creative innovation. 7. Encouraging Industry Collaboration With co-working spaces, modern equipment, and a high-tech production environment, the facility encourages partnerships between filmmakers, producers, and media entrepreneurs. This collaborative ecosystem makes Kwara an ideal destination for major film projects.
Governor AbdulRazaq: The Architect of Modern Nigerian Filmmaking
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s strategic vision and leadership have positioned Kwara State as a powerhouse in the Nigerian film industry. His bold investments in creative infrastructure are shaping the future of Nollywood and setting a new benchmark for film production in Africa.
At 65 years old, he is not just leading a state—he is pioneering a movement that will leave a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s entertainment and creative economy. With the Sugar Film Factory, Kwara is showing the way forward, proving that with the right investment, Nigeria can compete on a global stage in film and television production.
Seun Oloketuyi Founder and Chairman of BON Awards Advisory Board
