…Education Commissioner Demands Discipline Revamp in Public Schools
#KwaraRising
Kwara State Government has inaugurated a high-level committee to tackle student loitering during school hours and teacher absenteeism/lateness. Education Commissioner Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe launched the body at the Ministry headquarters in Ilorin, charging members to “restore discipline and sanity” in public schools.
“The objectives are clear: eliminate student loitering and improve teacher punctuality,” Olohungbebe stated. He urged members to avoid power struggles, work as a team, and act with accountability before God. The initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s education revamp agenda.
Teaching Service Commission Chairman Mallam Tahueed Bello and SUBEB head Professor Sheu Adaramaja pledged full institutional support. Both emphasized the committee’s role in achieving the Governor’s vision to “transform the child of nobody into somebody.”
Senior officials witnessing the inauguration included Ministry Permanent Secretary Mrs. Olanrewaju Rebecca Bake, TESCOM Permanent Member III Chief (Mrs) Bosede Daniel, SUBEB Permanent Members Hon. Dorcas Opeyemi and Hajia Habitat Muasu, and directors from all three agencies.
The committee will design enforcement mechanisms and monitoring frameworks across Kwara’s public schools immediately.
…Newly Established Institution Opens Admissions Through Change of Institution Process
#KwaraRising
The Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB) has officially listed seventeen accredited courses for the 2024/2025 academic session at Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED). Established by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the institution offers specialized programs including Business Education, Entrepreneurship, and Education and Technology. Other available courses span various disciplines such as Education Management, Guidance and Counseling, Sustainable Development, and Home Economics and Education.
Prospective students interested in science education can apply for Education and Physics, Education and Biology, Education and Chemistry, or Education and Computer Science. The university also offers Creative Arts Education, Education and English Language, Education and Yoruba, Education and History, and Electrical/Electronics Education.
KWASUED is currently accepting applications for both the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic sessions. Eligible candidates are advised to utilize the JAMB change of institution service at any accredited CBT center to select KWASUED as their first choice institution. The university emphasizes that this step is mandatory for admission consideration.
For further inquiries, candidates may contact the Director of Admissions through their institution’s Desk Officer or via the CAPS mail system. This development represents a significant milestone in Kwara State’s educational landscape, providing specialized teacher training opportunities aligned with current educational needs.
Prof. Is-haq O. Oloyede, the JAMB Registrar, confirmed the institution’s readiness to welcome its pioneer students. The establishment of KWASUED underscores the state government’s commitment to expanding access to quality teacher education in Nigeria.
…State-Sponsored Portal Opens June 11 for Common Entrance Exam
Kwara State has begun online registration for the 2025 Common Entrance Examination into public junior secondary schools. The fully government-sponsored exercise runs from June 11 to June 23 through the official portal: https://placement.kwarastate.gov.ng.
Education Ministry officials confirmed all registration and examination fees are fully covered by the state government, reinforcing its free education policy. Prospective pupils must register exclusively through their current primary schools, with private institutions required to obtain Quality Assurance Bureau clearance first.
Head teachers of public primary schools are undergoing mandatory training to ensure smooth implementation. The Ministry warned against any illegal charges to parents, stating violators will face disciplinary action under public service regulations.
While the examination date will be announced later, parents and school administrators are urged to complete registrations before the June 23 deadline. Support is available via SMS/WhatsApp (07068977077) or email (c2c@kwarastate.gov.ng).
This initiative advances Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to accessible education across Kwara.
…Commissioner Hails AbdulRazaq’s Commitment as NCCE Concludes Accreditation Visit to Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin
#KwaraRising
Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has been widely commended for his bold reforms and sustained investments in the education sector, particularly in revitalizing the state’s tertiary institutions.
The accolades were led by the State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, during a debriefing session with the accreditation team from the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), who visited the Kwara State College of Education (KWCOED), Ilorin, for the 2025 accreditation exercise of the National Certificate in Education (NCE) programme.
Describing the exercise as a major milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to reposition higher education in the state, the Commissioner praised Governor AbdulRazaq for rescuing the sector from near collapse. She revealed that the current administration had inherited a system plagued by neglect, including a seven-month salary backlog and several unaccredited programmes.
“Governor AbdulRazaq not only cleared the backlog but also paid over one billion naira owed to staff by the previous administration,” Hajia Modibbo Kawu stated. “The rot we met was unimaginable. What the Governor has done in a few years shows strong leadership and a sincere passion for the development of education. He is truly a listening and responsible leader.”
The Commissioner also commended the NCCE team for their professional and thorough assessment of the college, adding that their work gives hope to the future of the country. “You didn’t just point out our strengths but also gave a constructive and honest review of our challenges. It’s a reminder that integrity and professionalism still thrive in Nigeria,” she said.
She disclosed that a special task team was inaugurated in December to address key institutional challenges and that many of its recommendations are already being implemented.
Also speaking, the Acting Provost of the College, Dr. Ayinde Shehu Jawondo, expressed gratitude to the Governor for rescuing the institution from total collapse. “We were at the brink, but His Excellency’s intervention changed everything. If you had come earlier, it would have been a tragic picture,” he told the visiting team.
The Head of the NCCE accreditation team, Mrs. Chibuzor Ekuwonye, commended the college’s technical strength but clarified that their report remains provisional until the NCCE management gives final approval. She advised the college leadership to work on addressing areas of concern, especially in enhancing the learning environment.
A team member, Dr. Otuniyi, explained that their review covered both Institutional and Programme Accreditation, including leadership quality, administrative efficiency, and student support services. He emphasized the need for urgent improvements in the Directorate of Quality Assurance.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Ben Udoh, another member of the team, thanked the Kwara State Government for its investments in the institution and praised the college’s management for their hospitality and openness during the visit.
… promise to invest in education, healthcare, and protection for every Kwara child
As Nigeria commemorates Children’s Day 2025, Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to policies and investments that give the Kwara child a strong head start in life.
In a message issued to mark the occasion, the Governor said his administration remains focused on creating a future where every child in the state can live and prosper in dignity.
“Every child deserves to live and prosper in dignity, and this depends on all of us that they look up to,” the Governor said. “As a government, we continue to invest in quality basic education and basic healthcare, while implementing policies that make the world a better place for them.”
The Governor cited ongoing reforms and initiatives including KwaraLEARN, the Education Trust Fund, the state’s anti-hawking stance, six-month paid maternity leave, child protection laws, and improved access to maternal and child healthcare services as practical demonstrations of his administration’s commitment.
Aligning with the 2025 Children’s Day theme, “Stand up, speak up: building a bullying-free generation,” Governor AbdulRazaq noted that the administration has equipped schools and communities with tools to protect children from harm. He highlighted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law and direct engagement mechanisms that allow school children to escalate their concerns to the highest levels of educational oversight in the state.
“Our premium KwaraLEARN gives us an unfettered access to classrooms in every corner of the state. Similarly, we have since enacted the Violence Against Persons Law to protect every Kwaran, including children, from any form of violence,” he added.
Governor AbdulRazaq also celebrated recent policy outcomes that have placed Kwara among the best-performing states in both education and health indices, including having the lowest under-five mortality rate nationwide.
“As our multi-pronged approaches to children’s welfare show,” the Governor said, “I invite all stakeholders to do their bit in ensuring that the Kwara child thrives.”
… Governor AbdulRazaq backs digital storytellers and content creators through partnership with Kwara Kre8 initiative
#KwaraRising
The Kwara State Government has announced its sponsorship of the Kwara Kre8 initiative, an emerging platform aimed at supporting photographers, filmmakers, social media influencers, and digital creatives across the state. The collaboration, led by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, underscores the administration’s continued support for youth-driven innovation and cultural expression.
Kwara Kre8 made the announcement through its Creative Lead, Adebisi Oyelere, who acknowledged the Governor’s support as a major boost for the creative community. He said the initiative will help young creatives build their skills, gain industry exposure, and connect with mentors who can guide them on their career journey.
Participants in the Kwara Kre8 workshop will receive training in areas such as content development, digital marketing, storytelling, and entrepreneurship. The event also promises to provide networking opportunities with established professionals and showcase the work of emerging talents to a wider audience.
Keynote speakers for the event include the Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa Esq, Special Assistant to the President on Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Ayo Adeagbo, and Special Assistant to the President on Capacity Development, Sadiq Rabiu.
The Kwara Kre8 team expressed appreciation to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, for supporting the programme. They noted that the partnership reflects the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and its willingness to invest in platforms that promote innovation and economic inclusion.
… The state government, in collaboration with the World Bank’s IMPACT project, equips frontline PHC workers with critical skills to improve labour monitoring and reduce maternal and newborn deaths.
#KwaraRising
In a decisive move to reduce maternal mortality and improve delivery outcomes, the Kwara State Government has trained 193 health workers from Primary Health Care (PHC) facilities across the state on the effective use of the Partograph — a critical labour-monitoring tool.
The 3-day training, which concluded on Wednesday, was organised by the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA) with support from the World Bank’s IMPACT project (Immunization Plus Malaria Progress by Accelerating Coverage and Transforming Services). It aimed to bridge the knowledge gap among newly recruited health workers and also served as a refresher course for existing staff.
Executive Secretary of the Agency, Prof. Nusirat Elelu, represented by Dr. Michael Oguntoye, Director of Primary Health Care Systems and Programme Manager of IMPACT, said the training would equip participants with the skills needed to monitor maternal and fetal health, detect complications early, and make informed decisions for timely referrals.
“The Partograph is a lifesaving tool. When used correctly, it can significantly reduce the risks women face during childbirth,” she said, while commending Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his sustained investment in the health sector.
Dr. Medinat Olaosebikan, Focal Person for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health + Nutrition (RMNCAH+N), added that the training would lead to measurable improvements in the quality of care at PHC facilities. “This will ensure safer deliveries, early detection of poor labour progress, and prompt interventions that protect the lives of mothers and babies,” she said.
The training is part of the administration’s broader commitment to strengthening Kwara’s healthcare system and promoting safe motherhood for all.
…Initiative to train and empower corps members, young agripreneurs in livestock value chain
The Kwara State Government is set to launch a transformative livestock agribusiness programme targeting National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and other young people across the state, in a bid to drive youth empowerment, rural development, and innovation in the livestock sector.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, during a courtesy visit to the NYSC Orientation Camp at Yikpata, Tsaragi District in Edu Local Government Area over the weekend. Accompanied by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Alhaji Yahaya Mohammed, the Commissioner explained that the initiative will train, equip, and fund young livestock entrepreneurs.
“Our goal is to turn job seekers into job creators,” Mrs. Thomas said. “This partnership with the NYSC allows us to deliver practical training in livestock production, business development, and access to finance within a supportive environment.”
Scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025, the programme will be implemented through a public-private partnership secured by the state government. Participants will undergo an intensive three-month training at the Yikpata camp, after which they will receive starter packs and support to launch or grow their agribusinesses.
While corps members will be the primary beneficiaries during the orientation periods, the facility will also be made available to other youths during off-camp seasons.
NYSC State Coordinator, Mr. Onifade Olaoluwa Joshua, expressed strong support for the initiative, assuring the state’s readiness to collaborate fully and urging the government to prioritize security around the camp.
The Commissioner also paid a courtesy visit to the Etsu Tsaragi, Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi Kpotwa, to seek royal blessings and inform the traditional ruler about the planned youth empowerment programme.
The Kwara Youth Livestock Empowerment Programme is positioned to become a flagship project under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration, further cementing the state’s commitment to agribusiness, innovation, and youth development.
… Iyin Aboyeji to Discuss Building Innovation Hub at Event Hosted by Ilorin Innovation Hub, Partners
#KwaraRising
Ilorin Innovation Hub, in collaboration with IHS Towers, CcHUB, and Future Africa, will host a virtual townhall on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, featuring tech entrepreneur Iyin Aboyeji, co-founder of Flutterwave and Future Africa. The session, themed “Building a Global Tech Hub from Ilorin,”aims to chart pathways for positioning Kwara State’s capital as a nucleus of innovation.
Scheduled for 5:00 PM WAT, the event will explore strategies to leverage local talent, infrastructure, and partnerships to create a globally competitive tech ecosystem. Aboyeji, renowned for his role in Nigeria’s fintech revolution, is expected to share insights on scaling startups, attracting investments, and fostering cross-sector collaboration.
“This townhall is a call to action for stakeholders to unite in transforming Ilorin into a beacon of technological excellence,” organizers stated. Registration is open via https://bit.ly/IIHTownhall.
…Gov AbdulRazaq’s Initiative Expands to Target 7,500 Youths, Boosts Tech Education in Public Schools
#KwaraRising
Kwara State has onboarded 5,503 students in its Coding and Digital Literacy Program, marking a significant stride in Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s agenda to position the state as a regional tech hub. Hon. Kayode Ishola, Special Assistant to the Governor on Digital Innovations, disclosed this on Sunday, announcing the program’s expansion to 50 public secondary schools with a revised target of 7,500 students by 2025.
Launched as a pilot in 2024 with 684 students across six schools, the initiative—now the largest state-led digital education program in Nigeria—equips youths with skills in coding, computational thinking, artificial intelligence, and digital literacy using existing school infrastructure. As of April 25, 2025, 73.4% of the target has been met, with participation across senatorial districts: Kwara North (1,222), Kwara South (2,186), and Kwara Central (2,095). Gender inclusivity remains a highlight, with 53.4% female (2,939) and 46.6% male (2,564) trainees.
“The program will resume seamlessly on Monday, May 5, 2025, to deliver future-ready skills as schools begin their third term,” Ishola stated, emphasizing the administration’s focus on making public schools “competitive and desirable” in tech education. Participants will receive Certificates of Participation, while schools get commendations and prompt remuneration for their roles.
The initiative, praised by groups like Women in Tech and KidsTech Africa, aligns with AbdulRazaq’s broader vision as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. Partnerships with the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology, further underscore its cross-sector impact.
“This program is a testament to Kwara’s commitment to innovation and youth empowerment,” the statement added, noting its role in bridging the gap between public institutions and high-cost private tech training.
