Kwara Rising

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  • The Quiet Yet Impactful Governance of MallamAbdulRahman AbdulRazaq by Alabi Isaac Adesina

    The Quiet Yet Impactful Governance of MallamAbdulRahman AbdulRazaq by Alabi Isaac Adesina

    In an era where political grandstanding often overshadows substance, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has carved out a distinct governance style—one marked by quiet but impactful progress. His administration has faced challenges such as overcoming entrenched lawlessness in urban areas, addressing neglected infrastructure, and ensuring welfare programs reach marginalized communities. By implementing stringent urban planning laws, initiating comprehensive road rehabilitation projects, and expanding healthcare access, the administration has delivered tangible benefits to citizens. For instance, the enforcement of urban planning in Ilorin has curbed chaotic development, while the refurbishment of healthcare facilities has improved service delivery in rural areas, showcasing a governance style that prioritizes long-term, impactful solutions over superficial achievements.

    Urban Renewal: Reshaping Kwara’s Capital

    One of the hallmarks of AbdulRazaq’s administration is the urban renewal initiative, which has significantly transformed the landscape of Ilorin, the state capital. This initiative is not merely about aesthetics; it addresses long-standing issues of lawlessness and haphazard development that had plagued the city. By enforcing town planning laws and restoring order, the government has not only beautified the city but also laid the groundwork for sustainable development.

    Driving through Taiwo Road, Unity, Challenge, and Ahmadu Bello Way, one cannot help but notice the transformation. These areas, once characterized by chaotic development, now exemplify order and modernity. Residents have expressed their delight at the improved road networks and aesthetic appeal, noting that the enhanced infrastructure has eased traffic flow and boosted local businesses. For instance, a shop owner in Unity remarked on how the organized environment has attracted more customers, while a resident of Challenge praised the reduction in congestion, making daily commutes more manageable. These testimonials highlight the tangible impact of the urban renewal efforts on everyday life. The enforcement of setbacks and adherence to approved building plans have been critical in achieving this transformation. The administration’s firm stance on these issues, despite initial resistance, underscores its commitment to long-term urban planning.

    The government’s efforts in urban renewal have also fostered a sense of pride among residents. The new and improved infrastructure not only enhances the city’s aesthetic appeal but also boosts economic activities. The ongoing development of a Central Business District is a case in point. This area, spanning from the Challenge area through the Post Office to the Government House, is set to become a hub of economic activity, further cementing Ilorin’s status as a modern capital city.

    In addition to these developments, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, recently visited Ilorin to inaugurate several key projects. Among them were two newly constructed flyovers, named in honor of the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the late General Tunde Idiagbon. These flyovers are expected to significantly enhance traffic flow and contribute to the city’s modernization efforts. 

    Furthermore, the First Lady commissioned an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Community Centre at the Kwara State College of Education in Ilorin. This project, a collaboration between the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aims to empower communities by providing access to digital resources and training. 

    Infrastructure Development: A Statewide Approach

    While some critics argue that the administration’s focus has been primarily on Ilorin, a closer examination reveals a more balanced approach. Significant projects are underway across various districts, reflecting a commitment to statewide development. The selection and prioritization of these projects are based on a comprehensive needs assessment, which takes into account the unique challenges and requirements of each district. This ensures that resources are allocated effectively to address critical issues, whether it be improving road infrastructure in rural areas, upgrading healthcare facilities, or enhancing educational opportunities. By tailoring initiatives to meet the specific needs of diverse communities, the administration aims to foster inclusive and balanced growth throughout the state. For instance, in Oro district alone, there are numerous projects ranging from road infrastructure to healthcare and education.

    Among the notable projects is the Kwara Sugar Film Factory along Ajase Ipo Road in Ilorin. This facility aims to reposition Kwara as a hub for the creative industry, fostering job creation and youth empowerment. Similarly, the Ilorin Innovation Hub is more than just a workspace; it is a catalyst for technological growth and collaboration among young innovators.

    Another significant project is the Shea Butter Factory in Wozibe, Kaima Local Government Area. This initiative, in partnership with the World Trade Organization and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, aims to modernize shea butter processing. By adopting international standards, the project seeks to enhance the value chain and boost the local economy.

    The Ilorin Visual Arts Centre, designed as an Institute for African Art and Film, is another bold initiative. It signifies a commitment to cultural preservation and the promotion of arts, positioning Kwara as a center for artistic expression in Nigeria.

    Sustaining the Momentum

    As the administration enters its final years, the focus remains on completing ongoing projects and laying the groundwork for future initiatives. The Smart City Plan, a component of the state’s master plan, exemplifies the forward-thinking approach of AbdulRazaq’s government. While some projects may extend beyond his tenure, the foundation being laid today ensures continuity and sustainability.

    In conclusion, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s quiet yet impactful governance offers valuable lessons in leadership. By prioritizing substance over spectacle, he has been able to achieve significant milestones that promise long-term benefits for the people of Kwara State. As citizens, it is our collective responsibility to acknowledge these achievements and support the administration’s efforts to build a better Kwara for all.

  • Ilorin Innovation Hub Set to Launch Transformative Programs for Tech and Entrepreneurship

    Ilorin Innovation Hub Set to Launch Transformative Programs for Tech and Entrepreneurship

    …As Governor AbdulRazaq relentless march on Innovation and Digital Growth in Kwara continues

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub is set to officially commence its programs, marking a significant milestone in Kwara State’s drive to foster technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The highly anticipated launch event will take place on:

    📅 Date: Thursday, 27th February 2025
    ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM
    📍 Venue: Ilorin Innovation Hub, Ahmadu Bello Way, GRA, Ilorin

    The event will unveil a series of transformative programs aimed at supporting startups, digital entrepreneurs, and tech-driven enterprises. It is expected to attract key stakeholders, industry professionals, policymakers, and members of the innovation ecosystem, further positioning Kwara as an emerging tech hub in Nigeria.

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub, a flagship initiative under the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration, is designed to serve as a catalyst for technological advancement, job creation, and digital empowerment in the state. By providing access to mentorship, training, funding opportunities, and cutting-edge resources, the hub is set to nurture the next generation of innovators and business leaders.

    As part of the preparations, attendees are encouraged to confirm their attendance by registering at https://forms.gle/YDUtZhTAZnm6auV5A

    With this launch, Kwara continues its journey toward becoming a center for digital innovation and entrepreneurship, reinforcing Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to economic diversification and technological progress.

  • Kwara Govt Targets 28,000 Girls for Digital Skills Training

    Kwara Govt Targets 28,000 Girls for Digital Skills Training

    … Stakeholders laud Governor Abdulrazaq’s administration stance on digital skill education.

    The Kwara State Government has launched a digital literacy training program aimed at equipping over 28,000 adolescent girls in 70 public secondary schools across the state’s three senatorial districts.

    The initiative, organized by the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development in collaboration with the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, is tagged “Digital Literacy Skills Programme for Educators and Secondary School Girls.”

    Declaring the 5-day workshop open at Bovina View Hotels, the State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, emphasized the project’s significance as part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to improving education. Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Rebecca Bake Olanrewaju, the Commissioner highlighted that AGILE aims to enhance secondary education opportunities for adolescent girls, particularly those facing educational disadvantages.

    “The AGILE Project is designed to construct and renovate school structures, provide Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, and supply essential learning materials,” she said.

    She further explained that the initiative includes Life Skills and Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) sub-components, which provide female students with training on health, reproductive and emotional development, as well as financial support for disadvantaged learners to help them complete secondary education.

    “Digital skills will make our students more relevant in society. This will not only keep them up to date with global trends but also create employment opportunities after their secondary education,” Modibbo Kawu added.

    The Project Coordinator of Kwara AGILE, Mr. Adeshina Salami, praised Governor AbdulRazaq for bringing the project to the state, calling it “a great opportunity to equip adolescent girls with relevant digital skills to compete in the labor market.” He noted that the initiative, supported by the World Bank, is part of the Federal Ministry of Education’s broader efforts to improve secondary education for girls.

    “Adolescent girls often face socio-cultural and financial challenges that prevent them from completing their education. This program aims to make education more appealing and equip them with 21st-century skills to compete with their peers globally,” Salami stated.

    In his remarks, the Team Lead of TedPrime Hub, the project’s implementing partner, Mr. Olamilekan Adeeko, revealed that 70 teachers are being trained, who will then retrain an additional 210 teachers. Together, they will train 8,000 girls, with a long-term goal of reaching 28,000 students.

    “What these students learn will contribute to improving the economic standards of Kwara State, Nigeria, and the African continent. Our objective is to prepare them for future jobs and enable them to compete globally,” Adeeko said.

    World Bank Consultant on Digital Literacy Skills, Ms. Ese Adeluyi, presented a paper on “Shifting Perspectives: Making Digital Skills Training Engaging and Relatable,” stressing the vital role of teachers in student learning. Similarly, Microsoft Africa’s Education Industry Director, Ms. Angela Nganga, discussed “Microsoft’s Commitment and the Future of Work/Potential Opportunities for Gender Inclusion,” encouraging girls to aspire for success in technology-driven careers.

    In their goodwill messages, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Mary Kemi Adeosun, and the Executive Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Mallam Bello Tauheed, represented by Prince Kunle Yusuf, commended the government for prioritizing digital education for young girls in the state.

  • Transforming Education: Kwara State’s New Vision for Primary Schools

    Transforming Education: Kwara State’s New Vision for Primary Schools

    …Governor AbdulRazaq’s Bold Steps in Educational Advancement

    The Kwara State Government has unveiled a groundbreaking prototype for future public primary school buildings, marking a significant step in Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s mission to revolutionize the education sector. As Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON continues to prioritize education through strategic leadership, recruitment of qualified educators, prompt salary payments, and substantial investment in infrastructure.

    A testament to his unwavering dedication is the construction of a three-storey modern primary school at Adeta in Ilorin West Local Government Area. Designed in line with the new prototype, this facility will provide an enhanced learning environment and improved amenities to benefit young learners across the state.

    The state-of-the-art school will feature:

    Administrative Facilities:

    Headmaster’s Office

    Deputy Headmaster’s Office

    Large Administrative Office

    General Office

    Sickbay

    Classrooms and Learning Spaces:

    15 Classrooms for Pre-Primary Pupils

    15 Classrooms for Lower Primary (Grades 1-3)

    15 Classrooms for Upper Primary (Grades 4-6)

    2 Science Laboratories

    2 Large Art Rooms

    2 Spacious Staff Rooms

    Library

    2 ICT Laboratories

    Additional Facilities:

    Expansive Outdoor Play Area

    Adequate Toilets

    Upon completion, these modern educational structures will rank among the best in Northern Nigeria, significantly enhancing the standard of public primary education in Kwara State.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has already rehabilitated and constructed thousands of public schools, reaffirming his commitment to sustainable educational development. His significant investments have yielded remarkable results, as Kwara students continue to excel in national and international competitions, including the prestigious annual presidential debate.

    With Governor AbdulRazaq’s continued dedication, the future of education in Kwara State remains bright, ensuring that every child has access to quality learning environments and opportunities for academic excellence.

  • Kwara Government Inspects Prototype Primary School Construction in Ilorin

    Kwara Government Inspects Prototype Primary School Construction in Ilorin

    … …Governor AbdulRazaq Prioritizes Education Infrastructure for Quality Learning

    The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to revitalizing the education sector with the inspection of the ongoing construction of a prototype primary school in Adeta, Ilorin West Local Government Area. The state-of-the-art facility, designed to provide a conducive learning environment, is set to become a model for primary education in Kwara.

    The three-storey building will feature modern learning conveniences, including a cooling system, fully equipped classrooms, water and electricity reticulation, alternative power sources such as generating sets and solar energy, digital boards, an e-library, and a well-structured playing ground to support both academic and extracurricular activities.

    During the inspection, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, emphasized the state government’s insistence on quality work and warned against any substandard execution of the project. He urged the contractor to adhere strictly to the agreed project timeline, ensuring that the facility is completed on schedule for the benefit of the people.

    Dr. Ogunsola assured the contractor of the state government’s willingness to provide necessary support to ensure the smooth execution of the project. He also pledged regular inspections to guarantee that the construction meets the high standards expected by the government.

    Accompanying the Commissioner on the inspection were Director of Building Services, Architect Bilyaminu Lawal; Director of Public Buildings and Works, Builder Femi Ibiyinka; and other officials from the ministry.

    The prototype school project is part of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration’s broader vision to enhance basic education infrastructure and provide young learners with the best possible learning environment, aligning with global best practices in primary education.

  • Kwara Expands Thursday Market to Boost Food Security and Access to Organic Produce

    Kwara Expands Thursday Market to Boost Food Security and Access to Organic Produce

    … Government Introduces Organic Vegetables, Staple Crops, and Subsidized Kwara Rice

    The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has announced the expansion of the Thursday Market, offering residents a wider variety of organic vegetables and essential food staples in addition to the already available fresh fish. This initiative is part of the state government’s continued efforts to enhance food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and support local farmers.

    According to the Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Kwarans can now purchase Ewedu (Jute leaves), Soko (Lagos Spinach), Tete (African Spinach), and other leafy greens, all cultivated using organic farming methods at the Ministry of Agriculture. The vegetables are grown using water and waste from the Ministry’s Fish Hatchery, ensuring a natural and chemical-free production process.

    “Green, healthy, and organic Ewedu and Efo will now be available at our Thursday Fish Market,” said Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas. “It is also noteworthy that our vegetable farm has produced a high yield even at the peak of the dry season, reinforcing our advocacy for year-round planting as a cost-effective and sustainable practice.”

    Beyond vegetables, the Thursday Market now provides essential food staples, including yam, beans, maize, and sorghum. These staple crops were given back to the state government by farmers who had benefited from Kwara’s agricultural input and empowerment programs—a testament to the success of the government’s continued support for local farmers.

    Additionally, “Made in Kwara” rice is now available at the market at a subsidized rate, making it more affordable than prevailing market prices. This aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to food affordability and agricultural sustainability.

    With this expansion, the Thursday Market continues to evolve into a hub for fresh, locally grown, and organic produce, reinforcing Kwara’s position as a leader in sustainable agriculture. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative by purchasing fresh fish, organic vegetables, staple crops, and premium-quality Kwara rice at competitive prices.

  • When Gov AbdulRazaq silenced opposition with inauguration of legacy projects

    When Gov AbdulRazaq silenced opposition with inauguration of legacy projects

    By Odun Edward

    The recent visit to Kwara State by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu to commission some landmark projects executed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq has ended criticisms by the opposition parties that no project had been commissioned by his administration.

    One of the criticisms against Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq by the opposition parties in Kwara State was the non-commissioning of “any project” since his assumption of office. But the negative impression was confined to the dustbin of history when the wife of President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, visited the 58 years old state on the invitation of the governor between January 28 and 30, 2025, and commissioned about 10 major projects built by the administration. The list was not exhausted as other projects are ongoing with the expansive 10-storey building of the Kwara State Internal Revenue Services (KWIRS) becoming a reference point.

    The monumental projects, named after some iconic Nigerian personalities, mostly of Kwaran descent, dwarfed the initial criticisms by some Kwarans. However, the critics, rather than acknowledge the governor’s efforts, held the position that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rather than his wife should have paid the working visit to the state “if there was no love lost between the governor and the president.”

    The kennel of the commissioning was the opening of two overhead bridges – one at the Tanke end of the state capital to decongest the route to the University of Ilorin and the other at Unity Roundabout .

    On the entourage of the First Lady were the wives of the Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief of Staff to the President and the wives of some state governors.

    Senator Tinubu’s first point of call was the Kwara State University of Education, where she inaugurated the ICT Community Centre built under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA); Intensive Care Unit, and Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, among others.

    She then paid homage to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari at his palace. The Emir applauded her for her unflinching support to her husband’s government. He led a prayer session for the success of the administration. The visitor thanked the Emir for his encouragement to both the President and the state governor, appealing for more of such in future.

    Thereafter, she inaugurated the newly constructed Unity Flyover, which Governor Abdulrazaq named after the emir, an honour anchored on his support for the administration, his peaceful reign, his fatherly role in the emirate and beyond, and his support for the socio-economic development of Ilorin.

    Along with the ICT Centre built under the RHI at the Kwara State University of Education, Tinubu also inaugurated the ultramodern Intensive Care Unit, Executive Ward, and Gen. Tunde Idiagbon Flyover.

    She also inaugurated other iconic projects of the governor such as the Innovation Hub; Visual Arts Centre; and the Garment Factory – all reputed to be the best of their kinds in the country and African sub-region.

    Speaking at the inauguration of the ICT Centre, Mrs. Tinubu commended the governor and his wife for building it, expressing belief that youths and women would benefit from it.

    She said: “I have been informed that these centres have greatly benefited our youths, especially women and girls, by providing invaluable opportunities for growth and empowerment. I am glad to hear about the success stories and the opportunities these centres afford members of these various communities that have benefitted from this intervention.

    “The knowledge of ICT serves as a significant tool to empower communities, especially women, to break traditional barriers and access new opportunities by equipping themselves with ICT skills.

    “So far, NITDA has constructed four Community ICT Centres in total. This centre we are commissioning today is the second, while Benue and Oyo centres are ready to be commissioned soon.

    “Other Digital Economy Centres have also been fully equipped with computers and other ICT materials in five states, namely Jigawa, Ebonyi, Cross River, Oyo, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory.

    “Ten additional Digital Economy Centres in Abia, Edo, Delta, Ondo, Kano, Katsina, Lagos, Nasarawa, Yobe, and Zamfara are also being fully equipped with ICT materials and will be ready for commissioning soon.”

    In her remarks, Mrs. AbdulRazaq said the new edifice would speak to the many engagements and partnerships of the First Lady to adequately support Nigerians while pursuing their goals and seeking to improve their means of livelihood.

    She, therefore, enjoined the host school and users alike to protect the facility and take full advantage of its services towards developing themselves and promoting positive causes.

    “While this milestone will continue to up the status of women, youths and other users of the facility, it is also creating pathways into making Nigeria a digitally empowered nation as well as fostering a technology enabled equitable future for all Nigerians,” she said.

    On his part, the governor appreciated President Tinubu and the First Lady for what he called “an impactful initiative.”

    He said the ICT project would not just be an investment in infrastructure but also a powerful statement about the essential role of technology in man’s survival and progress in the digital era.

    He added: “Technology is here to stay, and the only path forward is to aggressively invest in the skills and infrastructure that will secure a prosperous future for our people.

    “As we commission this ICT Community Centre today, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to Her Excellency and the Renewed Hope Initiative for this remarkable investment in our community and youth.”

    Besides, AbdulRazaq commended the unwavering support of the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, towards realising the set objectives.

    At the Innovation Hub, a facility that is designed to be Kwara’s version of the Silicon Valley to raise generations of techies and build skills that resolve local developmental challenges, Tinubu said: “I am so, so glad with what I have seen. This is truly amazing, and I am going back to tell the President what I have seen. You (governor) are a man truly in love with your people. You have really done so well.

    “What I have seen here is borne out of a clear dream about where the governor wants his people to be. This dream is coming alive. We can stay here forever. You have enough projects to showcase, and I am indeed very proud of you.”

    Tinubu ended her three-day visit to Kwara with a tour of the Garment Factory, another signature project of the governor.

    She interacted with workers of the factory, telling them to make the most of the foresight of the governor by working hard.

    “What your governor has done is to create opportunities for enterprise and productive engagement of youths and women. I want you to work hard and become successful. I’m here purposely to encourage you to make this a huge success for yourself and for your state,” she said in Yoruba language.

    She later gave the hundreds of workers a stipend of N20,000 each.

    The state Chairman of the PDP, Babatunde Mohammed, described the naming of some of the edifices after the personalities as good but faulted the governor for acting as if he was the one that built all of them from the scratch, particularly the stadium.

    “Credit must go to Innih and such ex-governor Bukola Saraki who carried out major renovations on the edifices and turned them all to modern event centres,” he said.

    Besides, he criticised the leaving out of the doyens of Kwaran politics like the late Olusola Saraki, Chief Sunday Olawoyin, and Chief Cornelius Adebayo from the list of those that the projects were named after.

    However, the APC chairman in the state, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, said Mohammed was putting up “destructive criticisms against what they could not do when in power for 16 years but which we have successfully done under a period of six years. We still have many other projects under construction. In fact, many of them are nearing completion as we speak. Many deserving Kwarans will still benefit from the naming processes.”

    However, a chieftain of the APC in the state, Akogun Iyiola Oyedepo, has criticised the governor for allegedly concentrating projects in the metropolis instead of spreading them across all the senatorial districts in the state.

    Oyedepo said: “The visit of the First Lady to Kwara should now be an eye opener to her to observe what some of us had been saying for some years. Our major concern is that projects are being over concentrated in the state capital. We have three senatorial districts in Kwara so how do we develop other districts if this is the way we always want to follow? So certainly, some people are being neglected.”

    Another chieftain of the party, Chief Wole Oke, supported some of the views expressed by Oyedepo, describing them as those of the majority of the party members in the state.

    He advised the governor to use his remaining years in office to spread development to other areas of the state.

  • Kwara TESCOM Shortlists 9,459 Applicants for CBT as Recruitment Enters Second Phase

    Kwara TESCOM Shortlists 9,459 Applicants for CBT as Recruitment Enters Second Phase

    The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has invited 9,459 applicants to participate in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) as part of the ongoing teachers’ recruitment process. The examination is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

    In an official statement released on Monday, February 17, TESCOM Chairman Mallam Bello Taoheed announced that the shortlisted candidates have successfully met the eligibility criteria, including possessing the relevant university degrees and meeting the required age limit.

    “A total of 9,459 applicants are being invited. These candidates successfully completed the application process and possess qualifications such as B.Ed., B.Sc. Ed., B.A. Ed., or a Bachelor’s degree in relevant subjects with education qualifications,” the statement read.

    Mallam Taoheed explained that 26,349 applicants initiated the process, but not all completed it due to system filters that disqualified those who were above the age limit or lacked the required degrees. Of the 11,617 candidates who completed the application process, only 9,459 met all the criteria and were shortlisted for the CBT.

    According to TESCOM, 8,319 (87.95%) of the shortlisted candidates are indigenes of Kwara State, while the remaining 1,140 (12.05%) are non-indigenes. Additionally, 45.80% (4,332) of the shortlisted applicants applied to teach Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.

    The statement also provided a gender breakdown of the candidates, revealing that 4,709 (49.78%) are male, while 4,750 (50.22%) are female. Furthermore, 40 applicants are persons living with disabilities (PLWD), with 31 of them being Kwarans. Special accommodations will be provided for them at the test centers.

    The CBT will be conducted at various centers across the state, including:

    Thomas Adewunmi University, Oko

    Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa

    Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin

    University of Ilorin

    Ilorin West LGA Library/CBT Centre, Agbo-Oba

    Lafiagi Emirate Information and Technology Hub, Emir’s Road, Lafiagi

    Tsoede CBT Centre, along Patigi-Ilorin Road, Patigi

    Applicants are required to visit the designated portal to select their preferred test center. Once assigned a venue and time slot, candidates must print their examination slips from the portal and bring them to the test centers on the day of the exam.

    “The exam will commence at 8:30 a.m., and applicants are advised to arrive at their designated centers at least one hour before their scheduled test time,” the statement added.

    TESCOM also urged candidates to conduct themselves appropriately throughout the examination process, as their behavior will be considered part of the overall assessment for the public sector job.

  • Kwara Government, IVTEC Launch Batch 8 of Youth Empowerment Programme

    Kwara Government, IVTEC Launch Batch 8 of Youth Empowerment Programme

    The Kwara State Government, in partnership with the International Vocational Technical and Entrepreneurship College (IVTEC), Ajase Ipo, has commenced Batch 8 of the 2024/2025 Youth Empowerment and Employment Generation Scheme. The initiative aims to equip young people with valuable vocational and entrepreneurial skills to combat poverty and unemployment across the state.

    In a statement released in Ajase Ipo, the Rector of IVTEC, Engr. (Dr.) Yaru Salihu, highlighted that the programme is fully sponsored by the state government as part of its broader commitment to skills development, economic empowerment, and job creation for Kwara’s youth.

    According to the statement signed by IVTEC Press Secretary, Grace Ige, training will be offered in key vocational fields, including:

    ● Trades and Vocations

    ● Automotive Technology

    ● Building and Electrical Works

    ● Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC)

    ● Hospitality and Tourism Management

    ● Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

    ● Welding and Fabrication

    ● Entrepreneurship Development

    The programme consists of an intensive three-month in-center training, followed by a mandatory three-month industrial attachment at relevant industry or business establishments. Upon completion, the Kwara State Government will provide qualified participants with business start-up packages, enabling them to launch their own ventures.

    The 2024/2025 session is set to begin on February 17, 2025, and successful trainees will be awarded a Technical and Entrepreneurship Certificate in their field of specialization.

    Prospective candidates between the ages of 18 and 35 are encouraged to apply by visiting: https://portal.ivtec.edu.ng and following the application process promptly.

    The Rector further emphasized the state government’s commitment to supporting beneficiaries through full tuition scholarships and a monthly stipend of ₦5,000, which has been sustained since the programme’s inception.

    With this initiative, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to prioritize youth empowerment and skills development, ensuring that more young Kwarans are equipped for gainful employment and entrepreneurial success.

  • Kwara Government to Upgrade 70 Primary Healthcare Centers for Better Service Delivery

    Kwara Government to Upgrade 70 Primary Healthcare Centers for Better Service Delivery

    …Governor AbdulRazaq Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Healthcare Access

    For years, residents of rural communities in Kwara State have struggled with limited access to quality healthcare. Expectant mothers often had to travel long distances for antenatal care, while families faced challenges finding well-equipped clinics for their children’s treatment. That reality is now set to change as the Kwara State Government embarks on an extensive upgrade of 70 Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities across the state, ensuring that basic healthcare is brought closer to the people who need it most.

    Speaking during the contract signing ceremony for the project, Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA), Professor Nusirat Elelu, said the intervention will improve healthcare infrastructure, provide solar power for uninterrupted service, build staff quarters for medical personnel, and supply ultra-modern medical equipment to enhance service delivery. She explained that the upgrade, backed by the World Bank-funded Immunisation Plus and Malaria Progress by Accelerating Progress and Transforming Services (IMPACT) project, is designed to make PHCs fully equipped to provide essential health services across the state.

    Prof. Elelu emphasized that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration has remained deeply committed to transforming healthcare access. She recalled that 53 PHCs had already been renovated, with another 9 currently undergoing upgrades, noting that the goal is to ensure that no part of the state is left behind in the government’s plan to strengthen primary healthcare services. She also pointed out that over 1,005 healthcare workers, including doctors, have been recruited to ensure that the PHCs operate efficiently, addressing concerns about understaffing in rural clinics.

    The IMPACT Programme Manager, Dr. Michael Oguntoye, stated that the project must be completed within three months and warned against any delays by contractors. He stressed that the primary beneficiaries of the initiative are under-five children, pregnant women, and vulnerable populations, with the overarching aim of reducing maternal and child mortality rates in Kwara. He further added that the IMPACT project will also improve national monitoring and evaluation systems, enhance service quality, and create more awareness about the importance of accessible healthcare services.

    With this latest initiative, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has once again demonstrated his administration’s commitment to building a strong and inclusive healthcare system. As work begins on these facilities, communities across Kwara can look forward to a future where quality healthcare is no longer a privilege, but a right accessible to all.