Kwara Rising

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  • Kwara Gov Inspects Multistorey Hospital, Says State’s Spending on People-Focused Projects

    Kwara Gov Inspects Multistorey Hospital, Says State’s Spending on People-Focused Projects

    …Gov showcases road projects statewide, commends President’s support

    #KwaraRising

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Sunday inspected the ongoing construction of the multistorey Oluremi Tinubu Hospital in Ilorin, a few days after approving an additional N20 billion for the upgrade of public school infrastructure across Kwara State.

    Speaking with reporters at the construction site, the Governor described the hospital as one of his administration’s flagship investments in public health, education, road infrastructure, and social programmes aimed at improving the lives of residents.

    Last Tuesday, the Governor toured rural road projects in Asa Local Government, including the 23.23-kilometre Oko Olowo Express–Sokoto–Tafatafa–Elere–Owode Oja Baba Kudu–Akopari–Otte Oja Road and the 17.7-kilometre Madi Peeke Road.

    AbdulRazaq said the administration has completed several roads within and outside Ilorin, while many others are still under construction. He noted that other states are also recording progress in healthcare and infrastructure delivery, citing large-scale hospital projects in Lagos, Kaduna, and elsewhere.

    He linked the increased pace of development across Nigeria to the rise in federal allocations to states following the removal of fuel subsidy, and he commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting Kwara’s development drive.

    “The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was here six months ago to lay the foundation of this world-class hospital, and work has progressed tremendously,” the Governor said. “Hopefully, by the second quarter of next year, we’ll be done with it. The majority of the equipment have been ordered already — radiography machine, CT scanner, MRI, PET scan machines, and other vital tools.”

    The Governor said other key projects are underway across Kwara, including the International Conference Centre, ICT Centre in Shonga, Patigi Regatta Motel, Sheabutter Factory in Kaiama, and Ibrahim Taiwo Road in Offa.

    “This is not the only thing going on in the state,” he said. “We have major infrastructure projects beyond healthcare, and it’s the same across Nigeria. Recently, in Kaduna, we joined the President to commission a hospital built by the state government. Lagos is building a huge children’s hospital, Katsina is doing the same, and healthcare facilities are improving nationwide due to increased federal revenue.”

    AbdulRazaq stressed that road construction often gets the most public attention, but significant investments are also being made in education, agriculture, and other critical sectors.

    “I have recently approved another N20 billion spending on education infrastructure,” he said. “Education is not a low-hanging fruit, so people don’t quickly see its impact. But alongside roads, we’re investing heavily in agriculture and other sub-sectors, and we’ll continue to deepen those investments.”

    The Governor listed completed and ongoing road projects in Kwara South, including the Oro–Arandun Road, Omu-Aran–Oko Road, Orisa Bridge along Oro-Ago, and the access road to Owu Waterfall. He added that work is ongoing on the Ajase-Ipo–Oke Ode Road in phases and plans are in place for the Ilemona bypass, among others.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Meets Security Chiefs in Kwara South

    Governor AbdulRazaq Meets Security Chiefs in Kwara South

    … Governor reaffirms commitment to stronger security measures across the state

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Saturday held a strategic security meeting with senior officers of the army, police, and other security agencies in Kwara South.

    The meeting followed reviewed security reports from various stakeholders, including the outcome of a recent routine gathering of Kwara South Leaders convened by Engr. Dr. Johnson Adewumi. Present were Irepodun Local Government Chairman, Hon. Abdulazeez Yakub; Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju; Prince Olanrewaju Shuaib (SOFAB); and top security officers.

    The Governor commended the Nigerian Army, police, local vigilantes, and community leaders for their collaboration, which he said has been vital in maintaining peace and safety across the state.

    He directed security agencies to maintain a lockdown in areas showing signs of potential threats, stressing the importance of keeping Kwara inhospitable to criminal elements. He also assured residents that the state government is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser to strengthen security measures.

    Governor AbdulRazaq urged residents to remain calm and support ongoing operations by security forces, assuring them that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard lives and property.

  • Gov AbdulRazaq Inspects Rural Roads in Asa, Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Growth

    Gov AbdulRazaq Inspects Rural Roads in Asa, Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Growth

    ..: Projects aim to boost farmers’ access to markets, improve rural livelihoods

    KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday toured multiple rural road projects in Asa Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to spreading development and connecting rural communities to economic opportunities.

    The Governor inspected the 17.7km Madi–Peeke Road and the 23.23km Okolowo Express–Sokoto–Tafatafa–Elere–Owode Oja–Baba Kudu–Akopari–Otte Oja Road, both part of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). The initiative, jointly funded by the World Bank and the French Development Agency, has received over N4bn in counterpart funding from the state government.

    AbdulRazaq urged contractors to deliver quality work within reasonable timelines, stressing that improved road access would empower farmers, facilitate trade, and boost grassroots GDP. “Access to the market means empowerment and an increase in GDP for people at the grassroots,” he said.

    During the visit, the Governor stopped at a Garri processing centre in Owode Oja, where he pledged support for mechanisation to enhance productivity without displacing jobs. He also visited the local Primary Health Care Centre, underscoring his administration’s focus on sustainable livelihoods, health, and business growth in rural areas.

    Speaking on the broader economic outlook, AbdulRazaq noted that the new tax regime introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would increase revenue at state and local government levels. He assured that his government is determined to ensure the gains are felt by communities at the grassroots.

    State RAAMP Coordinator, Engr. Isaac Kolo, said construction work currently includes line drains and culverts, with earthworks and surface dressing set to commence after the rainy season.

    Community leaders, including APC Women Leader Mrs. Suleiman Hamdalat and Gari Processing Association Chairperson Mrs. Khadijat Jimoh, lauded the Governor for his continued engagement and commitment to rural development.

  • 24 PDP Leaders Defect to APC, ADC as Saraki loses grip in Kwara

    24 PDP Leaders Defect to APC, ADC as Saraki loses grip in Kwara

    Kwara State’s political scene has been shaken by the defection of 24 prominent leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    The wave of departures, which includes former governors, legislators and grassroots organisers, is seen as one of the biggest setbacks yet for the PDP in the state.

    The exodus was led by former governor Abdulfatai Ahmed, who announced in July that he was leaving the PDP for the ADC. Citing a “lack of vision and internal democracy,” Ahmed said he was convinced the party could no longer deliver on the aspirations of its members.

    His move opened the floodgates for other senior figures to leave.

    Among those who have crossed over are Gbenga Makanjuola, the PDP’s deputy gubernatorial candidate in the 2023 election, and Dare Bankole, a two-time House of Representatives candidate.

    Both joined the APC, pledging support for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s development agenda. At a rally in Omu-Aran, Makanjuola said the PDP had “lost its soul” and that Kwara’s future lies in “a party that works for the people.”

    Bolaji Abdullahi, the PDP’s 2023 senatorial candidate for Kwara Central and a former APC national publicity secretary, also joined the ADC. In a speech in Ilorin, Abdullahi accused the PDP of “stagnation” and called the ADC “the only viable opposition in Kwara.”

    Others who have defected to the APC include Hon. Wahab Issa, a former member of the House of Representatives; Kehinde Alex Bankole, a 2019 state constituency candidate; Haliru Dantsoho, former PDP youth leader; Hon. Adam Zakaria, a ward chairman; Hon. Toyin Ibrahim, a former councilor; Samson Osoba, a former council secretary in Oyun; and Hon. Joshua Omokanye Jalalala, a former Oyun local government chairman.

    Several other figures, including Hon. Amuda Kanike, a former member of the House of Representatives; Hajiya Nana Suleiman, PDP North-Central zonal women leader; and Engr. A.T. Asanloko, a former council secretary, have moved to the ADC. They say the PDP’s leadership has failed to provide opportunities for inclusion and growth.

    Bukola Saraki, the PDP’s most influential figure in the state, called an emergency meeting in Ilorin to try to prevent further losses, but his appeal fell on deaf ears.

    The defections continued, with some openly challenging Saraki’s leadership and calling time on what they described as “one-man politics.”

    Governor AbdulRazaq has welcomed the defectors, describing their decision as a vote of confidence in his government’s direction.

    At a rally in Kaiama, he said: “Kwara is moving forward, and the APC is the vehicle for progress. We welcome all who share our vision.”

    For the PDP, the fallout has been severe. Many grassroots leaders, councillors, and organisers who have formed the backbone of the party’s political structure in the state have abandoned it. With the departure of such a large number of leaders and their followers, observers say the PDP faces an uphill battle to remain relevant.

  • Kwara Trains 1,325 Basic School Teachers on Foundational Literacy, Tech Skills

    Kwara Trains 1,325 Basic School Teachers on Foundational Literacy, Tech Skills

    …Programme targets early-grade literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving

    The Kwara State Government, through the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) in partnership with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and New Globe Educational Services, has commenced a three-day training programme for 1,325 teachers from public basic schools across the state.

    The exercise, which began on Monday and will end on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, focuses on two thematic areas — “Foundational Literacy Skills” and “Springs and Stride” — aimed at improving early-grade reading and fostering productivity in software development, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

    Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Ilorin, SUBEB Chairman Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja said the initiative was designed to strengthen teachers’ capacity for maximum impact on pupils and the wider education system.

    “The foundational literacy training is aimed at ensuring and sustaining yearly increases in the average literacy skills of early-grade pupils in government schools,” he said. “The Spring and Stride training, on the other hand, will focus on promoting productivity in software development, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.”

    According to him, the beneficiaries include 500 teachers from Primary One classes, another 500 from Primary Two, 250 from Early Child Care Development Education (ECCDE), and 75 from the Pre-Basic level.

    He outlined the training schedule across the state’s local government areas, with sessions holding from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. Teachers from Ilorin West and East LGAs will be trained at Bishop Smith School from July 28–30; Asa, Moro, and Ifelodun at LGEA School, Idofian; Kaiama at Kaiama Central School (July 31–Aug. 2); Baruten at LGEA School, Baruten; and Edu and Patigi at Central School, Tsaragi. Others include Offa and Oyun at Offa Grammar School (Aug. 4–7); Isin and Irepodun at Muslim School, Oro (Aug. 4–6); and Oke-Ero and Ekiti at Osi Central School, Osi (Aug. 4–6).

    UBEC Deputy Director Mrs. Patient Abasi commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for prioritizing infrastructure upgrades, human capital development, and teacher welfare.

    Mrs. Olaide Abel of New Globe Educational Services described the administration’s efforts as historic, noting that Kwara has become a reference point for educational development in Nigeria.

    The event was attended by SUBEB Permanent Member II, Mrs. Dorcas Ibikunle, and other board members.

  • Kwara Allocates N20bn Supplementary Budget for Massive School Upgrade

    Kwara Allocates N20bn Supplementary Budget for Massive School Upgrade

    … Education Commissioner Reveals Plan Targeting 1,254+ Classrooms, Labs

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved N20 billion in supplementary funding for comprehensive school infrastructure rehabilitation across the state. Education Commissioner Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe confirmed the allocation targets classroom construction, laboratory upgrades, and sanitation facilities in public schools.

    “This directive accelerates our unprecedented education overhaul,” stated Olohungbebe, noting designs are already underway. The investment builds on the administration’s renovation of over 1,254 classrooms since 2019 and successful resolution of UBEC funding bottlenecks inherited in 2020.

    The Commissioner emphasized this marks the first completion of SUBEB-UBEC projects stalled since 2014, calling it a signature achievement of Governor AbdulRazaq’s education agenda. “Despite transforming hundreds of learning spaces, infrastructure gaps persist. This N20bn injection systematically addresses those needs,” he explained.

    The funding will be distributed across urban and rural schools, complementing ongoing SUBEB interventions. Implementation begins immediately upon legislative approval of the supplementary budget.

  • Kwara Commences Construction of New Administrative Offices to Boost Public Service Efficiency

    Kwara Commences Construction of New Administrative Offices to Boost Public Service Efficiency

    …Government Clarifies Project is Not New Government House

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    Kwara State has officially commenced the construction of new office facilities designed to enhance public service operations in Ilorin. The project, awarded to Mapet Construction Ltd., was formally handed over during a ceremony attended by top government officials at the site adjacent to the Deputy Governor’s Office.

    Housing and Urban Development Commissioner Dr. Segun Ogunsola emphasized that the one-storey structure will provide modern office spaces, conference facilities, and other amenities to improve working conditions for civil servants. He specifically refuted circulating claims about building a new Government House, clarifying this as a dedicated administrative complex aimed at optimizing government operations.

    “The AbdulRazaq administration remains committed to creating functional work environments that enable efficient service delivery across urban and rural communities,” Ogunsola stated. The Ministry pledged strict oversight to ensure timely completion within the 12-month timeline, with contractor representatives guaranteeing adherence to specifications.

    The project launch witnessed participation from key stakeholders including Kwara State Public Procurement Agency General Manager QS Raheem Abdulbaki, Ministry Permanent Secretary Alhaja Risikat Atinuke, and representatives from the consulting firm Baron Architecture.

  • Kwara Issues Severe Weather Alert, Advises Immediate Relocation for Flood-Prone Residents

    Kwara Issues Severe Weather Alert, Advises Immediate Relocation for Flood-Prone Residents

    …State Intensifies Flood Prevention Measures as NiMET Predicts Heavy Storms

    The Kwara State Government has issued an urgent public alert following Nigeria Meteorological Agency’s (NiMET) forecast of heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms starting Wednesday, July 30. Director of Public Orientation Agboola Olarewaju specifically advised residents living near riverbanks and flood-prone areas to relocate to higher ground immediately to prevent potential loss of lives and property.

    The warning comes as the state government completes emergency dredging of Asa River and conducts comprehensive drainage clearance across Ilorin metropolis. Residents are strongly cautioned to limit outdoor movement during rainfall periods and to unplug electrical appliances when away from homes to prevent thunderstorm-related damage.

    The administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized its ongoing commitment to citizen safety through proactive environmental management, while calling on residents to complement government efforts by maintaining clean drainage channels and heeding weather advisories. Motorists and market traders are particularly urged to exercise extreme caution during the forecasted severe weather period.

  • Adeta Primary School Project Highlights Governor AbdulRazaq’s Education Drive

    Adeta Primary School Project Highlights Governor AbdulRazaq’s Education Drive

    …Modern multistorey KwaraLEARN school in Ilorin to set new standard for learning facilities

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, is pushing ahead with his plan to upgrade education across the state through modern infrastructure, recruitment of qualified teachers and regular payment of salaries.

    One of the key projects under this plan is the ongoing construction of a multistorey prototype KwaraLEARN school at Adeta Primary School in Ilorin. The project, which is being undertaken by the AbdulRazaq administration, is designed to provide pupils with a more conducive learning environment and modern educational tools.

    The new Adeta Primary School will have a headmaster’s office, a deputy headmaster’s office and a large administrative office. It will also include a sickbay to attend to emergencies and the welfare of pupils.

    The facility will accommodate 15 classrooms for pre-primary pupils, another 15 classrooms for lower primary classes from Primary 1 to 3, and 15 more classrooms for upper primary pupils from Primary 4 to 6.

    In addition to regular classrooms, the school will have two science laboratories to encourage practical learning, two large art rooms, two staff rooms and a large library. There will also be two ICT laboratories to ensure that children are exposed to digital literacy from an early stage. A generous outdoor play area will form part of the school design alongside adequate toilets and supporting facilities.

    According to the state government, the new school will be among the best of its kind in the North Central region and across the country when completed. It is part of the administration’s broader effort to give children in Kwara State better access to quality education and improved learning facilities.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Celebrates Mariam Eniola Bolaji’s Gold Medal at British and Irish Para-Badminton Tournament

    Governor AbdulRazaq Celebrates Mariam Eniola Bolaji’s Gold Medal at British and Irish Para-Badminton Tournament

    …Says Kwara-born athlete is an inspiration to a new generation

    Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has congratulated Mariam Eniola Bolaji for winning gold at the 2025 British and Irish Para-Badminton International Tournament, describing the achievement as another milestone in her remarkable career.

    “I join sports lovers around the world to celebrate the legendary para-badminton talent Mariam Eniola Bolaji on yet another incredible feat on the global stage as she emerged global champion (gold medalist) at the just concluded British and Irish Para-Badminton International Tournament 2025,” the Governor said in a statement.

    He praised the Kwara-born athlete for her determination, hard work and courage, noting that her consistent success is establishing her as one of the best para-athletes in the world.

    “Eniola stands as an inspiration to our younger generation that there is no limit to what they can achieve in life. Her journey continues to inspire millions,” he said.

    AbdulRazaq urged her to remain focused and ambitious, assuring her of the state government’s support as she pursues even greater achievements in the years ahead. He recalled that his administration recently named a sporting facility after her in recognition of her outstanding contributions.

    “Thank you for making Africa, Nigeria and Kwara proud once again, Eniola,” the Governor added.