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  • Governor AbdulRazaq Reaffirms Religious Tolerance,

    Governor AbdulRazaq Reaffirms Religious Tolerance,

    … Bids Farewell to Kwara Christian Pilgrims

    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.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Inaugurates Steering Committee

    Governor AbdulRazaq Inaugurates Steering Committee

    … Hands Over Kampe Game Reserve to Federal Government

    #KwaraRising

    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.

  • A Sardauna’s path in Kwara

    A Sardauna’s path in Kwara

    Rafiu Ajakaye

    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

  • Celebrating Leadership and Empathy: A Tribute to Governor Abdulrahman

    Celebrating Leadership and Empathy: A Tribute to Governor Abdulrahman

    By Abayomi Odunowo.

    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.

    Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
    National Chairman AATSG
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    AATSG Media.

    URL: www.AATSG.org.ng
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  • Kwara State to Recruit More Staff for Public Schools

    Kwara State to Recruit More Staff for Public Schools

    … Governor gets commendation for continued support 

    #KwaraRising

    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, Gov AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman Champions A New Era In Nigerian Filmmaking With Sugar Factory

    At 65, Gov AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman Champions A New Era In Nigerian Filmmaking With Sugar Factory

    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

  • Kwara State Tops Nigeria in RAAMP Counterpart Funding Payment

    Kwara State Tops Nigeria in RAAMP Counterpart Funding Payment

    … Governor AbdulRazaq Strategic Investment drive gains recognition.

    Kwara State has been ranked as the best-performing state in Nigeria for counterpart funding payment under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). The ranking was announced on Monday in Abuja during the 8th RAAMP Implementation Support Mission, an annual assessment of participating states to review progress and set the agenda for the new year.

    Reacting to the recognition, the Kwara State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, described it as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to equitable development and infrastructural transformation.

    “This is a big win for our state. It reflects His Excellency’s dedication to ensuring sustainable development and modernizing rural infrastructure,” Olododo stated. “At the session, states were assessed and awarded in different categories, and Kwara emerged victorious in two key areas. First, we were ranked overall best in counterpart funding payment among the 19 participating states, meaning that no state contributed more counterpart funding to the program than Kwara.

    “Additionally, we won the award for overall disbursement, leading the 13 states in our category in terms of funds accessed from the World Bank and the French Development Agency (AFD). This achievement directly translates to real infrastructure development, as evidenced by the ongoing construction of 209.77km of rural roads across the state,” he added.

    These awards reaffirm Kwara State’s commitment to rural development and improved agricultural marketing, positioning it as a model for other states in the country.

  • Kwara State Government Sets Up Task Force on Advertising and Signage Restructuring

    Kwara State Government Sets Up Task Force on Advertising and Signage Restructuring

    As part of the ongoing urban renewal project, the Kwara State Government has set up a Task Force on Advertising and Signage Restructuring to enhance the state’s aesthetics and standardize outdoor advertising within and outside the metropolis. The Committee Chairperson and Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, announced this in Ilorin today while inaugurating the committee at the ministry’s conference hall. She emphasized that the initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to modernizing Kwara, improving public safety, and ensuring compliance with global best practices in advertising.

    Olukoju stated that the task force will oversee a structured enforcement of advertising and signage regulations, starting with the removal of unauthorized billboards, posters, and light pole banners in Ilorin metropolis before extending to other parts of the state. Following the inauguration, the task force held its inaugural meeting, where Hon. Olukoju reaffirmed the government’s dedication to stakeholder engagement, assuring that consultations would continue as the restructuring process unfolds.

    The commissioner outlined the key responsibilities of the task force, which include identifying and removing unauthorized and improperly erected billboards and advertisement structures, engaging stakeholders within the advertising and outdoor media sectors to ensure compliance, and developing a sustainable framework to prevent future violations. She noted that the task force comprises representatives from key government agencies and the private sector, including the General Manager of the Kwara State Signage and Advertisement Agency, officials from the Ministry of Environment and the Road Traffic Management Authority (KWARTMA), as well as representatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigerian Police Force, and AKOT Prints, with a senior administrative officer from the Ministry of Communications serving as the Secretary.

    Hon. Olukoju further disclosed that there will be no registration or renewal of billboard licenses until further notice, as the state finalizes a new regulatory framework. In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Yahaya Muhammed, assured the public that all enforcement activities will be conducted professionally and in the best interest of Kwara’s development.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to push forward with policies aimed at enhancing urban planning, economic growth, and public safety. This latest initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to maintaining an organized and visually appealing environment that supports business growth while preserving the beauty of Kwara.

  • Kwara Assembly Passes N584.7 Billion 2025 Budget Appropriation

    Kwara Assembly Passes N584.7 Billion 2025 Budget Appropriation

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State House of Assembly has passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill, approving a total budget of ₦584.69 billion, following an upward review of the initial ₦540.37 billion presented by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq in December 2024.

    The House increased the budget by ₦44.33 billion to strengthen funding for key sectors such as Education, Health, Agriculture, Water, Housing, Youth Development, Works, and Transport. The budget breakdown shows that Capital Expenditure accounts for ₦379.40 billion (64.9%), while Recurrent Expenditure stands at ₦205.30 billion (35.1%).

    Speaking after the passage of the bill, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Engr. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, emphasized that Kwara State continues to align with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) budgetary framework, which adheres to global best practices. He also noted that the state has sustained the National Charts of Accounts approach adopted in 2024 and ensured that the 2025 budget fully complies with the SABER template.

    The Speaker commended the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, led by Hon. Fatima Arinola Lawal, for their diligence in reviewing the budget. He urged lawmakers to ensure effective implementation of the budget in line with constitutional provisions.

    He also appreciated the Clerk of the House, management, and staff, particularly the Budget, Planning, Research & Statistics Department, for their dedication to the budget process. He called on Kwarans to continue supporting the state government in its developmental efforts.

    With the passage of the Appropriation Bill, the Clerk of the House, Alhaji Kareem Ahmed, has been directed to prepare a clean copy for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s assent, marking a significant step towards funding key projects and policies in Kwara State for 2025.

  • First Lady Tinubu Concludes Kwara Visit, Lauds Governor AbdulRazaq’s Youth Empowerment Drive at Garment Factory

    First Lady Tinubu Concludes Kwara Visit, Lauds Governor AbdulRazaq’s Youth Empowerment Drive at Garment Factory

    … Ends Tour with Focus on Productive Enterprise, HIV Elimination Campaign, and N350m Film Factory Support

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday concluded her three-day working visit to Kwara State with a tour of the Garment Factory, a flagship project of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the largest facility of its kind in Nigeria.

    The visit underscored the governor’s commitment to youth empowerment and economic development, as the First Lady encouraged workers to maximize the opportunities created by the state government.

    “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,” Senator Tinubu told the workers in Yoruba. She also gifted each worker N20,000 as a token for their lunch, eliciting cheers and gratitude from the beneficiaries.

    The Garment Factory, which employs hundreds of young people and women, is a key component of Governor AbdulRazaq’s strategy to reduce unemployment and foster economic growth through industrialization.

    The facility produces uniforms, school kits, and other textile products, serving both local and international markets.

    HIV Elimination Campaign Launch

    Earlier in the day, Senator Tinubu launched the “Free to Shine” campaign, an initiative of the Organization of African First Ladies (OAFLAD) aimed at eliminating new HIV infections among women and children.

    The campaign also seeks to ensure that children born with HIV receive adequate treatment and support.

    Speaking at the event, the First Lady highlighted Nigeria’s high burden of HIV infections, particularly among women and youth, and called for concerted efforts to address the challenge. “To complement the Free to Shine campaign, I have also decided to advocate for the triple elimination of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis. This campaign will be held across the six geopolitical zones of the nation,” she said.

    Governor AbdulRazaq commended the First Lady for her leadership in the fight against HIV and pledged the support of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to raise awareness and mobilize resources for the cause.

    “We must act swiftly to minimize the impact of global policy shifts on millions of Africans living with HIV,” he said.

    N350 Million Boost for Sugar Factory Film Studio

    The First Lady’s visit also highlighted her N350 million donation to support the production of a culturally inspired movie at the Sugar Factory Film Studio, another landmark project of the AbdulRazaq administration. The film, which will showcase Kwara’s rich cultural heritage, is expected to elevate the state’s profile in Nigeria’s creative industry.

    Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude for the First Lady’s generosity, describing it as a testament to her commitment to Kwara’s development. “Her support for the Sugar Factory Film Studio reflects her passion for preserving our cultural values and promoting our creative talents,” he said.

    A Transformative Three-Day Visit

    Senator Tinubu’s visit, which began on Tuesday, featured the commissioning of several iconic projects, including the General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, the Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover, and an ultramodern Intensive Care Unit (ICU). She also performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital and toured the Ilorin Innovation Hub, a tech facility attracting partnerships from global organizations like IHS Towers and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

    The First Lady’s itinerary also included a state dinner at the remodeled Flower Garden, a symbolic representation of Governor AbdulRazaq’s efforts to revitalize public spaces.

    Health Minister, WHO, UNICEF Pledge Support

    At the Free to Shine campaign launch, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, revealed that 1.5 million Nigerians living with HIV are currently receiving treatment, a significant improvement from previous years. He reiterated the federal government’s commitment to eliminating HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis through comprehensive prevention, testing, and treatment services.

    World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, and UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, praised Nigeria’s dedication to HIV elimination and pledged continued support for the campaign.

    A Legacy of Empowerment and Development

    As Senator Tinubu departed Kwara State, her visit left a lasting impression of Governor AbdulRazaq’s transformative leadership. From infrastructure and healthcare to youth empowerment and cultural preservation, the state is breaking new grounds in development, setting a benchmark for others to follow.