Kwara Rising

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  • PRESS STATEMENT BY ARABA FEMI SANNI FNICE Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

    PRESS STATEMENT BY ARABA FEMI SANNI FNICE Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

    On the Passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo

    I join countless Nigerians in mourning the loss of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo — former Governor of Kwara State, Senator, Minister of Communications, and one of the towering figures in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    Chief Adebayo was not only a national icon but also a personal mentor who introduced me to politics. It was under his guidance that I learned the true meaning of politics rooted in ideology, principle, and service. Through him, I came to understand that public life is not about expediency, but about values and unwavering integrity.

    During our time in exile in Canada, he led the NADECO group with unmatched discipline and clarity of purpose. Working closely with him was an honour and an education. He was a true “general” in the pro-democracy struggle — calm under pressure, deeply thoughtful, and always guided by reason and restraint.

    One vivid memory stands out: the morning General Abacha passed, Chief Adebayo called me and, in his typically cautious and deliberate manner, urged me to verify the news through my contacts before reacting. That moment captured the essence of who he was — a man of wisdom, principle, and sound judgment.

    His life was a masterclass in statesmanship. Kwara has lost a great son, and Nigeria a voice of reason, dignity, and moral clarity.

    On behalf of myself, Flow FM 92.7, and the many others he mentored and inspired, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, the good people of Kwara State, and the entire nation.

    Chief Adebayo’s legacy will live on in the many lives he touched, and in the values he stood for.

    May his noble soul rest in perfect peace.

    Signed,
    Araba Femi Sanni
    Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

  • PRESS STATEMENT BY ARABA FEMI SANNI FNICE Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

    PRESS STATEMENT BY ARABA FEMI SANNI FNICE Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

    On the Passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo

    I join countless Nigerians in mourning the loss of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo — former Governor of Kwara State, Senator, Minister of Communications, and one of the towering figures in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    Chief Adebayo was not only a national icon but also a personal mentor who introduced me to politics. It was under his guidance that I learned the true meaning of politics rooted in ideology, principle, and service. Through him, I came to understand that public life is not about expediency, but about values and unwavering integrity.

    During our time in exile in Canada, he led the NADECO group with unmatched discipline and clarity of purpose. Working closely with him was an honour and an education. He was a true “general” in the pro-democracy struggle — calm under pressure, deeply thoughtful, and always guided by reason and restraint.

    One vivid memory stands out: the morning General Abacha passed, Chief Adebayo called me and, in his typically cautious and deliberate manner, urged me to verify the news through my contacts before reacting. That moment captured the essence of who he was — a man of wisdom, principle, and sound judgment.

    His life was a masterclass in statesmanship. Kwara has lost a great son, and Nigeria a voice of reason, dignity, and moral clarity.

    On behalf of myself, Flow FM 92.7, and the many others he mentored and inspired, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, the good people of Kwara State, and the entire nation.

    Chief Adebayo’s legacy will live on in the many lives he touched, and in the values he stood for.

    May his noble soul rest in perfect peace.

    Signed,
    Araba Femi Sanni
    Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

  • Kwara Cabinet Approves Dissolution of Harmony Holdings Over Financial Woes

    Kwara Cabinet Approves Dissolution of Harmony Holdings Over Financial Woes

    …Unprofitable Subsidiaries to Revert to Finance Ministry

    Kwara State Executive Council has ordered the winding down of Harmony Holdings and its subsidiaries following years of financial losses and mounting liabilities. The decision, reached during Tuesday’s cabinet meeting presided over by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, will see all public properties under the conglomerate returned to the Ministry of Finance Incorporated.

    Finance Commissioner Dr. Hauwa Nuru presented damning findings showing consistent losses across most subsidiaries since 2012, despite multiple government bailouts. Only Harmony Securities Limited remained profitable, while Harmony Transport Services, Harmony Insurance Brokers, and Harmony Investment and Property Development Company continued draining public resources.

    “Audited statements reveal these companies cannot meet short-term obligations, with quick ratios below the 1:1 industry standard,” Nuru disclosed. She noted repeated financial interventions failed to yield returns, prompting the recommendation for dissolution.

    The cabinet approved transferring assets to the Ministry of Finance Incorporated for more cost-effective management. The proposal now moves to the State House of Assembly for legislative ratification, alongside documentation of outstanding liabilities.

    This move concludes the state’s efforts to salvage the conglomerate after 13 years of operational deficits and marks a significant shift in Kwara’s public asset management strategy.

  • Kwara Reaffirms Staff Welfare Focus in Tertiary Education

    Kwara Reaffirms Staff Welfare Focus in Tertiary Education

    …Commissioner Vows Sustainable Development Amid Stakeholder Talks

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Government has restated its commitment to staff welfare and sustainable growth across state-owned tertiary institutions. Tertiary Education Commissioner Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu delivered the assurance during a stakeholder meeting with leaders from Kwara’s Colleges of Education and union representatives in Ilorin.

    The session gathered Provosts, Registrars, and Bursars from Colleges of Education in Ilorin, Oro, Lafiagi, and the College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies (CAILS). Also present were Office of Head of Service Permanent Secretary Dr. Olufunke Mercy Shittu, Kwara Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) officials, and ministry directors.

    “Governor AbdulRazaq prioritizes both infrastructure and the wellbeing of those managing these institutions,” Modibbo Kawu stated, urging stakeholders to foster unity and harmonious working relationships. She emphasized the administration’s dedication to peaceful academic environments alongside physical development.

    Dr. Shittu from the Head of Service office reinforced that worker welfare remains non-negotiable: “The Governor does not take this lightly.” She pledged to address union concerns raised during the meeting.

    Committee of Provosts Chairman Prof. Mukaila Aremu and academic union leader Comrade Salawu Omotayo applauded the Governor’s education investments, describing the approach as “people-centered and education-driven.”

    In parallel, the Commissioner held financial sustainability talks with college Bursars and KWIRS. Discussions focused on boosting internal revenue generation and enforcing prudent financial management. Modibbo Kawu stressed the need for financial discipline and innovative strategies, noting institutions must achieve greater self-sufficiency without compromising educational quality.

    The meetings concluded with commitments to implement joint solutions addressing operational challenges across Kwara’s tertiary education landscape.

  • Kwara Sets Up Committee to Curb Student Loitering, Teacher Lateness

    Kwara Sets Up Committee to Curb Student Loitering, Teacher Lateness

    …Education Commissioner Demands Discipline Revamp in Public Schools

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Government has inaugurated a high-level committee to tackle student loitering during school hours and teacher absenteeism/lateness. Education Commissioner Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe launched the body at the Ministry headquarters in Ilorin, charging members to “restore discipline and sanity” in public schools.

    “The objectives are clear: eliminate student loitering and improve teacher punctuality,” Olohungbebe stated. He urged members to avoid power struggles, work as a team, and act with accountability before God. The initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s education revamp agenda.

    Teaching Service Commission Chairman Mallam Tahueed Bello and SUBEB head Professor Sheu Adaramaja pledged full institutional support. Both emphasized the committee’s role in achieving the Governor’s vision to “transform the child of nobody into somebody.”

    Senior officials witnessing the inauguration included Ministry Permanent Secretary Mrs. Olanrewaju Rebecca Bake, TESCOM Permanent Member III Chief (Mrs) Bosede Daniel, SUBEB Permanent Members Hon. Dorcas Opeyemi and Hajia Habitat Muasu, and directors from all three agencies.

    The committee will design enforcement mechanisms and monitoring frameworks across Kwara’s public schools immediately.

  • Governor Touts Creative Industry as Kwara’s Economic Engine

    Governor Touts Creative Industry as Kwara’s Economic Engine

    …Investments in Film Studio, Innovation Hub Anchor Growth Strategy

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has declared the creative sector a vital economic driver and identity-builder beyond mere entertainment. Represented by Communications Commissioner Hon. Bola Olukoju at the “Kwara Kre8 Workshop” in Ilorin Innovation Hub, the Governor stated creativity “transforms lives and powers economies from design to gaming.”

    Hosted by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media Hon. Fafoluyi Olayinka Solace and Kwara Kre8 Lead Adebisi Oyelere, the event focused on professionalizing Nigeria’s creative industry. AbdulRazaq positioned the sector as a sustainable alternative to oil revenues, enabling youth to succeed through talent alone without connections.

    “Kwara intentionally builds environments where creativity is seen, respected, and rewarded,” Olukoju conveyed. The administration highlighted practical support including digital creator partnerships and major infrastructure like the Ilorin Innovation Hub and Sugar Factory Film Studio – a production base for filmmakers and content developers nationwide.

    “This facility invests in dreams and global reach for Kwara-born creatives,” the Governor emphasized. Oyelere praised the state’s investments, noting the hub, visual arts center, and film factory enable “more profitable impressions.” He echoed the Governor’s view of creativity as a significant economic contributor.

    The workshop gathered creatives to address industry challenges and ethical considerations, reinforcing Kwara’s push to position arts and technology as pillars of youth empowerment and economic diversification.

  • Kwara Issues Flood Alert for Jebba, Moro LGA Amid Heavy Rain Forecast

    Kwara Issues Flood Alert for Jebba, Moro LGA Amid Heavy Rain Forecast

    … Residents Urged to Take Precautions as National Warning Highlights Risk

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Government has alerted residents of Jebba and surrounding communities in Moro Local Government Area to a heightened flood risk following a national warning. The National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre in Abuja projected intense rainfall across Nigeria in coming days, specifically identifying Jebba as vulnerable.

    The release emphasized this coincides with peak rainy season, historically linked to flash floods. While no emergencies are currently reported, the government urged proactive measures. Residents in low-lying areas should relocate to higher ground if necessary and avoid waterlogged roads during downpours.

    The advisory calls for community action: clear drainage channels around homes and public spaces, monitor verified weather alerts, and report rising water levels or overflowing drains to local authorities immediately.

    “This proactive notice aims to minimize risks and protect lives and property,” stated Omotola. Residents are advised to stay calm but vigilant, taking all necessary precautions as rainfall intensifies. The Ministry continues monitoring the situation through official channels.

  • Kwara Launches Major Farm Inputs Distribution for 3,000 Farmers

    Kwara Launches Major Farm Inputs Distribution for 3,000 Farmers

    … State Partners Arzikin Noma to Boost Grain Production, Curb Herder-Farmer Clashes

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State has launched a large-scale farm inputs distribution program targeting 3,000 farmers in Kaiama Local Government as part of efforts to enhance food security and livestock development. The initiative, a collaboration between the state government, Arzikin Noma, and international partner IDH, focuses on sorghum and soybean cultivation to address both human consumption and animal feed needs.

    At the flag-off ceremony in Apata Alaje community, Livestock Development Commissioner Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas revealed the package includes 18,000 bags of fertilizer, 18,000 liters of agrochemicals (three different types), 75 metric tons of sorghum seeds, and 100 metric tons of soybean seeds. She emphasized the program’s potential to modernize livestock farming and reduce farmer-herder conflicts by ensuring adequate animal feed supply.

    “The grains production initiative directly addresses the root cause of clashes while supporting our industrialisation agenda,” Thomas stated. “This ensures agricultural products get value addition within Kwara rather than leaving as raw materials.”

    The event attracted top government officials including Transportation Commissioner Hon. Aliyu Kora Sabi, who noted the project’s location would foster peace in the agrarian community. Special Adviser on Strategy Alhaji Atiku Abdulsalam described it as part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s agricultural transformation blueprint.

    Private sector partners outlined their roles – Arzikin Noma CEO Adesola Adeoluwa guaranteed market access through off-takers like Olam, while IDH’s Dr. Daniel Abah emphasized creating sustainable agricultural value chains that benefit smallholder farmers.

    Beneficiaries including Mrs. Asmau Muhammad and Iliasu Saka praised the intervention, pledging to maximize the inputs’ potential. The program represents Kwara’s latest move to position itself as Nigeria’s emerging agribusiness hub while resolving longstanding pastoral conflicts through innovative solutions.

  • Kwara Pilgrims ‘Stranded’: Why indulging irresponsible behaviour puts everyone at risk

    Kwara Pilgrims ‘Stranded’: Why indulging irresponsible behaviour puts everyone at risk

    Rafiu Ajakaye

    Kwara State PDP has just issued a statement raising an alarm that Kwara State pilgrims in the holy land Saudi Arabia are stranded.

    As a policy of the media team, we checked to see if anything is amiss, contrary to what we knew about the scheduled return of our pilgrims.

    I spoke with the Ameerul Hajj and Olupo of Ajase-Ipo HRM Oba Ismail Yahya Alebiosu and the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Board. They both had a good laugh at the statement of the PDP because there is nothing as such.

    Kwara has some 2,204 pilgrims this year, one of the biggest contingents from Nigeria. These pilgrims are scheduled to depart Saudi in four batches as follows: June 21st, 23rd, 25th, and 27th. This schedule was not designed by the Kwara State Government; it was designed by all the stakeholders: NAHCON, airlines, and the pilgrims’ board.

    Many states of the federation still have pilgrims in the holy land. Nigeria has some 41,000 pilgrims this year; of these, only 6,951 are back, according to NAHCON figures this afternoon.

    Today is June 17th. How did the story of being stranded arise?

    As a reporter, I’m for a democracy that allows for free exchange of information and robust conversations on issues of shared interest. But I am not for sheer mischief and irresponsibility. They serve no good. In fact, mischief constitutes existential threats to all of us. This is why false alarm attracts stiff penalties in many societies.

    “It’s only when we discover how to live with one another peacefully, governed by institutions, rules, and norms to which we mutually consent, that we can turn our attention to other vital issues,” according to Jeremy Weinstein.

    I appeal to our colleagues in the media, legacy or new, to adopt a higher level of scrutiny for what they accept from anyone at all — ruling or opposition politicians. This is important for the good of all. If we allow just anything and no line is too sacred to cross, we risk psychological numbing to issues of grave significance to the public welfare or safety.

    Pray, where did the PDP get the idea that Kwara pilgrims are stranded? How are they stranded? When are they expected back home? Has that time lapsed? If purveyors of fake news know that people will ask questions, they will think twice before dishing it out. I beg that we set the bar very high in our own interest.

    ▪︎Rafiu Ajakaye is CPS to the Governor of Kwara State

  • Kwara State University of Education Lists JAMB-Approved Courses for 2024/2025 Academic Session

    Kwara State University of Education Lists JAMB-Approved Courses for 2024/2025 Academic Session

    …Newly Established Institution Opens Admissions Through Change of Institution Process

    #KwaraRising

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB) has officially listed seventeen accredited courses for the 2024/2025 academic session at Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED). Established by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the institution offers specialized programs including Business Education, Entrepreneurship, and Education and Technology. Other available courses span various disciplines such as Education Management, Guidance and Counseling, Sustainable Development, and Home Economics and Education.

    Prospective students interested in science education can apply for Education and Physics, Education and Biology, Education and Chemistry, or Education and Computer Science. The university also offers Creative Arts Education, Education and English Language, Education and Yoruba, Education and History, and Electrical/Electronics Education.

    KWASUED is currently accepting applications for both the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic sessions. Eligible candidates are advised to utilize the JAMB change of institution service at any accredited CBT center to select KWASUED as their first choice institution. The university emphasizes that this step is mandatory for admission consideration.

    For further inquiries, candidates may contact the Director of Admissions through their institution’s Desk Officer or via the CAPS mail system. This development represents a significant milestone in Kwara State’s educational landscape, providing specialized teacher training opportunities aligned with current educational needs.

    Prof. Is-haq O. Oloyede, the JAMB Registrar, confirmed the institution’s readiness to welcome its pioneer students. The establishment of KWASUED underscores the state government’s commitment to expanding access to quality teacher education in Nigeria.