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…State’s Strategic Communication Gains National Recognition Under Governor AbdulRazaq’s Administration

Kwara State’s Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, has once again been named one of Nigeria’s most influential public relations professionals, securing a spot on the prestigious 2025 PR Power List compiled by GLG Communications and The Guardian Newspaper. This marks her second consecutive year receiving this national recognition, underscoring Kwara’s growing reputation for excellence in strategic government communication under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s leadership.

The annual list identifies 50 top-tier PR and communication leaders across Nigeria who are driving transformation in their respective fields. Hon. Olukoju was selected in the distinguished “Changemakers” category, which honors professionals actively disrupting norms and pushing boundaries through innovative campaigns, strategic thinking, and measurable impact. The recognition specifically acknowledges her work in elevating Kwara State’s public communication framework and implementing creative solutions to complex information challenges.

In her response, Commissioner Olukoju redirected the accolade to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, describing him as the visionary behind Kwara’s communication successes. “This honor truly belongs to His Excellency, who has created an enabling environment for professional excellence and innovation in public communication,” she stated. “His administration’s commitment to transparency and strategic engagement has transformed how Kwara connects with its citizens and the nation.”

The selection process evaluated professionals across four categories: Rising Voices, Changemakers, Community Impact, and Fourth Estate. Hon. Olukoju’s inclusion places her among an elite group of strategic communicators shaping the future of Nigeria’s PR landscape.

Alhaji Salau Jimoh, Director of Information Services, praised the Commissioner’s achievement as well-deserved recognition of her contributions. “Hon. Olukoju has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and creativity in her role,” he remarked. “Her leadership has significantly raised the bar for public sector communication in Kwara State.”

This latest honor reinforces Kwara’s emergence as a model for effective government communication, with the state’s innovative approaches to public engagement, crisis management, and digital transformation earning national attention. Observers note that the recognition reflects Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s broader commitment to institutionalizing professional excellence across all sectors of the state’s governance.

…Says Nigeria has lost a leader defined by duty, simplicity, and courage

Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, who passed away in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

In a personally signed condolence message, Governor AbdulRazaq described the former President as a disciplined and principled statesman who served Nigeria with distinction both as a military leader and a civilian President.

“President Muhammadu Buhari’s passing is a painful moment for our country. He was a man of uncommon courage and quiet strength, a leader who placed integrity and service above all else. His life was defined by simplicity, a deep sense of duty, and unwavering patriotism,” the Governor said.

AbdulRazaq noted that Buhari’s legacy would live on through his decades of public service and the moral standards he upheld, even in the face of political pressure. “He stood firm on what he believed to be right, regardless of popularity or convenience. His modest lifestyle and patience were remarkable examples to all of us in public life,” he added.

The Governor extended heartfelt condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on what he called the personal loss of a close friend and political ally, as well as to former First Lady Aisha Buhari and the entire family of the late President.

“My thoughts and prayers are with President Tinubu, with Her Excellency Aisha Buhari, and with the entire Buhari family at this difficult time. May they find strength and peace in the enduring legacy he leaves behind,” AbdulRazaq said.

He also sent condolences to Governor Dikko Umar Radda and the people of Katsina State, describing the late President as one of the most prominent sons of the state whose name will remain etched in Nigeria’s political history.

“As a nation, we must reflect on the life of Muhammadu Buhari and strive to uphold the values he held dear: discipline, selflessness, and service to the people,” the Governor added.

He concluded by praying to Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the late President, grant him eternal rest in al-jannah Firdaus, and comfort the family and the nation he served so faithfully.

… Governor mourns monarch’s passing, prays for peace and comfort for family and community

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Oludofian of Idofian, His Royal Highness Oba Muhammed Jamiu Omikunle II, describing the monarch’s passing as a significant loss to the community and the state.

In a condolence message issued on Wednesday, the Governor commiserated with the people of Idofian in Ifelodun Local Government Area and the royal family, noting that the late monarch was a symbol of peace and unity throughout his reign.

“The transition of His Royal Highness Oba Muhammed Jamiu Omikunle II is an incalculable loss to the people of Idofian and Kwara State. He was a man of peace who served his community with dignity and calm strength. His short reign was marked by remarkable stability, respect for tradition, and a strong commitment to the development of his domain,” the Governor said.

AbdulRazaq urged the people of Idofian and members of the royal family to take comfort in the late monarch’s legacy and accept his passing as an act of God. He acknowledged the void the monarch leaves behind, but encouraged the community to remain united and uphold the values of peace and togetherness that defined his reign.

He also offered prayers for the repose of the monarch’s soul. “May Almighty Allaah grant Kabiyesi Al-jannah Firdaus and continue to strengthen his family and the good people of Idofian,” the Governor added.

Oba Muhammed Jamiu Omikunle II, who held the title of a second-class traditional ruler, passed away after years of dedicated service to his people. His leadership was widely respected, and he was known for fostering harmony, supporting community initiatives, and maintaining strong ties with both the traditional institution and government.

The Governor’s message was conveyed in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye.

…Says traditions should not be used to silence women, commends Governor AbdulRazaq’s inclusive leadership

Kwara State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, has called for a deliberate cultural shift to remove long-standing societal barriers that limit women’s participation in politics and leadership.

Speaking on A Place on the Table, a weekly radio programme on Gerin FM 95.5 Ilorin, the Commissioner said it was time for communities to move beyond cultural norms that discourage women from contributing fully to governance and public life.

The programme, sponsored by UN Women in partnership with the Royal Heritage Health Foundation, is focused on promoting gender inclusion and amplifying women’s voices in politics.

“Women must stand shoulder to shoulder, supporting one another in the pursuit of our collective progress,” she said, urging women across the region to get more involved in political processes—whether through voting, advocacy, or contesting for office.

According to Kawu, achieving genuine inclusive development in Nigeria requires equal opportunities for women to engage in decision-making without being held back by tradition. “Our traditions and cultural beliefs should not be used as tools to silence women or exclude them from politics. As a society, we must evolve and acknowledge the critical role women play in governance, development, and peacebuilding,” she said.

She praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for creating space for women in his administration, describing him as a leader who has shown genuine commitment to gender equity. “His actions continue to inspire confidence among women in Kwara State,” she added.

Kawu pointed to the Governor’s appointment of several women to strategic positions as an example that should be emulated at all levels of government.

She also highlighted the need for stronger mentorship structures and partnerships to support the emergence of future women leaders. “We need to build strong networks of support and mentorship for young women. Those of us in leadership must guide, empower, and prepare them to take up leadership roles,” she said.

The Commissioner called on development partners, civil society organisations, and women leaders to collaborate in creating more opportunities for women in governance.