Kwara Rising

Category: Education

  • KWASRRA Registers Over 350,000 Residents, Makes SSID Mandatory for School Enrolment, Exams

    KWASRRA Registers Over 350,000 Residents, Makes SSID Mandatory for School Enrolment, Exams


    … Pensioners in diaspora to complete registration online as Kwara State deepens data-driven planning and social inclusion

    #KwaraRising


    The Kwara State Residents Registration Agency (KWASRRA) has announced that over 350,000 residents have so far been registered in the ongoing statewide data capture initiative, as the government intensifies efforts to build a credible database for improved security, planning, and access to services.

    Acting General Manager of KWASRRA, Mr. Tajudeen Jimoh, made this disclosure on Wednesday during the Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing for the first quarter of 2025, organized by the Ministry of Communications and held at the Ministry of Finance in Ilorin.

    He said the registration is part of the agency’s core mandate to generate a reliable and comprehensive database of all categories of residents for economic development, effective governance, and social inclusion.

    Mr. Jimoh stated that, in line with the directive of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the registration exercise is now mandatory for residents seeking access to key services, including school enrolment and public examinations.

    “Students registering for common entrance, junior and senior secondary school exams, and other public assessments must now provide their unique State Security Identification (SSID) numbers. The same goes for parents or guardians, and students admitted into state-owned tertiary institutions,” he said.

    The Agency is working closely with relevant Ministries such as Education, Tertiary Education, and Local Government and Community Development to drive compliance across the 16 local government areas.

    He further highlighted major achievements within the reporting period, including:

    ● Expansion of registration centres from 96 to 113 across the state;

    ● Recruitment of 200 additional ad-hoc registration staff, increasing the workforce to 500 agents;

    ● Continued distribution of SSID cards across MDAs;

    ● Strengthened public engagement and improved service delivery through the opening of a permanent consultant office in Ilorin.

    To support residents in the diaspora and hard-to-reach areas, Mr. Jimoh also announced plans to expand the agency’s online registration portal to include advanced biometric verification features such as liveness check and face match. This will allow eligible residents—especially pensioners outside the state or abroad—to complete the entire registration process online without the need for physical presence.

    “This is a major step to ensure no one is left behind. The effort aligns with our commitment to building an inclusive, secure, and data-informed Kwara,” he added.

    He urged residents to embrace the exercise, noting that the SSID will become a key requirement for accessing most government services moving forward.

  • Kwara Govt Launches Student Helpline to Promote Safe, Supportive Learning Environment

    Kwara Govt Launches Student Helpline to Promote Safe, Supportive Learning Environment

    …Initiative offers academic guidance and emotional support for students facing learning challenges

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    The Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development has launched a Student Learning Support Helpline to provide academic and emotional assistance to learners experiencing difficulties, as part of efforts to ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive educational environment.

    Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, said the initiative reflects Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to making education accessible and student-centered. “Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration prioritises an accessible, inclusive, and safe educational environment for all learners. The helpline is a key step towards ensuring that no student feels left behind,” he stated.

    The helpline is available through the phone number 07039448763 and email c2c@kwarastate.gov.ng, and is designed to offer personalized support for academic concerns such as difficulty in understanding study materials, concentration issues, and other learning-related challenges.

    The Ministry urged students to utilize the service, describing it as a vital resource to make learning a more positive, engaging, and empowering experience.

  • Kwara Education Commissioner Commends Teachers as Schools Resume Third Term

    Kwara Education Commissioner Commends Teachers as Schools Resume Third Term

    …Dr. Olohungbebe urges adherence to academic calendar, pledges smooth resumption under ongoing reforms

    The Kwara State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, has applauded teachers and education staff across the state as schools resume for the third term of the academic year.

    In a statement issued on Sunday, Dr. Olohungbebe described teachers as critical stakeholders in the state’s education sector and expressed gratitude for their dedication and selfless service. He encouraged continued support for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s education reforms, which aim to improve the quality of learning in Kwara.

    The Commissioner also announced the release of the approved academic calendar for both public and private schools, assuring that all necessary arrangements have been finalized to ensure a seamless start to the term.

    “We appreciate the commitment of our teachers, staff, and our partners, including proprietors of private schools, thus far. We are confident they will continue to give their best as we nurture our children for a brighter future,” the statement read.

    Dr. Olohungbebe further urged all teachers and school administrators to adhere strictly to the academic calendar and comply with all guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education to ensure a smooth and productive academic term.

  • College of Nursing, Oke-Ode, Matriculates First Set of Students, Commends Governor AbdulRazaq

    College of Nursing, Oke-Ode, Matriculates First Set of Students, Commends Governor AbdulRazaq

    …Commissioner applauds investment in education and healthcare, urges students to uphold professionalism

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    The Kwara State College of Nursing Sciences, Oke-Ode, located in Ifelodun Local Government Area, has matriculated its first set of students, marking a major milestone for the institution. At the event, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq was lauded for his unwavering commitment to advancing education and healthcare across the state.

    Speaking at the ceremony, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, praised the Governor for his transformational strides, particularly in the recruitment of healthcare personnel, provision of medical equipment, and support for tertiary institutions. She urged the new students to be fully committed to their studies, stressing that the lives of others would one day depend on their skills, integrity, professionalism, and compassion.

    Hajia Sa’adatu also expressed gratitude to parents and guardians for their support, while acknowledging the host community and traditional rulers for fostering a peaceful environment that has allowed the college to thrive.

    In his address, the Provost of the College, Alhaji Abdquadri Lanre, described the matriculation as historic and long overdue. He confirmed that the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) had approved the National Diploma (ND) Nursing program, which has also been fully accredited by both the NMCN and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

    The Provost praised Governor AbdulRazaq as a “silent achiever” and “visionary leader,” noting that the administration’s focus on both infrastructure and human capacity has significantly improved healthcare delivery across Kwara State.

    Guest speaker, Professor Joel Afolayan from the Department of Nursing at the University of Ilorin, delivered a lecture titled “The Future of Nursing — Emerging Roles and Specializations,” which challenged the students to embrace the evolving landscape of the profession.

    Muhammad Aishat Talatu, the students’ set coordinator, encouraged her colleagues to approach their studies with the mindset of winners, emphasizing the principles of capacity, conformity, and commitment.

    Highlights of the ceremony included the symbolic capping and stripping of the matriculating students, a tour of the college’s facilities by the Commissioner, goodwill messages, and drama presentations.

    The event was attended by directors from the Ministry of Tertiary Education, academic and non-academic staff, parents, and well-wishers.

  • Kwara Govt Commissions Multi-Million Naira Projects in Ilorin South LGA

    Kwara Govt Commissions Multi-Million Naira Projects in Ilorin South LGA

    … Commissioner applauds community-focused interventions across key sectors

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    The Kwara State Government has commissioned a series of multi-million Naira projects in Ilorin South Local Government Area (LGA), reaffirming its commitment to grassroots development and improved quality of life for residents.

    Speaking at the commissioning ceremony on Thursday, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Community Development, Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi Bata, lauded the Executive Chairman of Ilorin South, Hon. Nuhu Abdulmajeed, for his people-oriented approach and impactful project delivery.

    While expressing delight at the visible support of the benefiting communities, Hon. Bata noted that the projects cut across vital sectors including water supply, healthcare, education, and electrification.

    “I’m highly impressed by the thoughtful execution of these projects and the large turnout of community members to express their appreciation. This is what governance should look like,” he said.

    The Commissioner urged other local government councils to emulate the Ilorin South model, describing the synergy between the executive and legislative arms of the Council as commendable and essential for meaningful development.

    “There’s no offence in imitation, especially when it’s positive and beneficial to the people,” he added, while calling on the communities to take ownership of the projects and ensure their sustainability.

    In his remarks, Hon. Nuhu Abdulmajeed thanked the Commissioner for his visit and kind words, noting that the projects were delivered in line with the development vision of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the promises made during the electioneering period.

    “We are replicating the giant strides of Governor AbdulRazaq at the grassroots. More projects will come as funds become available, and we ask for patience from communities still waiting,” he said.

    Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Iyabo Modupe Adekeye, commended the Chairman for aligning with the needs of the people and urged all Council professionals to continue adhering strictly to procurement regulations in project execution.

    Projects commissioned include:

    Drilling and installation of a motorized borehole at Olomoda Community

    Electrification and installation of 500KVA/33/415 KVA transformers at Adunbarin Community

    Reconstruction of the Primary Health Care Centre at Ajibesin Community

    Construction of four units of modern toilets at Tanke Market

    Borehole installation at Fate Community

    Complete renovation and furniture provision at GDJSS, Zango Eleboto School

    Renovation of two classrooms at Oke-Aluko Primary School

    Completion, metering, and energising of 100KVA/11/415 transformer at Olufadi Maternal Referral Centre

    Commissioning of the AGF AbdulRazaq Shopping Complex at Offa Garage

    The event was attended by community leaders, residents, council officials, and other stakeholders who expressed gratitude to the state government for the developmental strides in the area.

  • Eight Shortlisted Candidates Fail Drug Test in Kwara TESCOM Recruitment, Lose Slots

    Eight Shortlisted Candidates Fail Drug Test in Kwara TESCOM Recruitment, Lose Slots

    …disqualified applicants will be replaced by next-best candidates in a merit-based recruitment exercise backed by NDLEA and Governor AbdulRazaq

    At least eight applicants among the 1,800 shortlisted for the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) jobs have tested positive for banned substances, automatically disqualifying them from the ongoing recruitment process. This was revealed in a statement issued on Monday by TESCOM Chairman, Bello Taoheed Abubakar.

    According to the statement, the disqualified individuals tested positive for substances including benzodiazepine, tramadol, cotinine, marijuana, and amphetamine—all classified as dangerous drugs and considered harmful to human health.

    The drug test, conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) with full support from Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, was a critical screening phase in the recruitment process.

    Abubakar emphasized that the disqualified candidates will be replaced by the next-best performing applicants from their respective local government areas, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to a fair, transparent, and merit-driven hiring process.

    “A major implication of this development is that the affected individuals will be replaced by the candidates who are next to them in performance from their respective local government areas,” the TESCOM chair said.

    He added that the zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse is a deliberate policy to ensure that only mentally and physically fit individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the future of Kwara’s children.

    “Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has again etched his name in gold for insisting that recruitment into the teaching profession must be strictly on merit. His leadership continues to prioritize quality education and integrity in governance,” the statement added.

  • Bamdo LOD and Flow 92.7 FM Launch Empowerment Giveaway for Unilorin Content Creators

    Bamdo LOD and Flow 92.7 FM Launch Empowerment Giveaway for Unilorin Content Creators

    …Creative students to win boxes of food ingredients in social media challenge

    In a vibrant effort to uplift young creatives and encourage entrepreneurship, Bamdo LOD Services, in partnership with Flow 92.7 FM, has launched a unique giveaway campaign tagged Empowering Content Creators.

    The initiative is specially designed for students of the University of Ilorin and rising content creators within the region.

    The campaign calls on participants to produce a short video highlighting Bamdo Lod’s brand and services, using a pre-written script that will be provided. These videos are to be posted on social media platforms where creativity, clarity, and engagement will be key to winning.

    The rewards are enticing: the best video, along with the first five entries to reach 300 likes, will each receive two boxes filled with essential food ingredients—completely free.

    The initiative is more than just a competition; it’s a creative challenge that blends digital storytelling with practical rewards that support student living.

    Flow 92.7 FM, a known promoter of grassroots innovation and youth-centered campaigns, is proudly sponsoring the project as part of its broader commitment to fostering local talent and driving positive impact through media partnerships.

  • Gov AbdulRazaq Celebrates UNILORIN Math Prodigy as Guinness World Records Reviews 31-Hour Marathon Lesson

    Gov AbdulRazaq Celebrates UNILORIN Math Prodigy as Guinness World Records Reviews 31-Hour Marathon Lesson

    … Governor hails 400-level student Sanusi Akanbi Kazeem for exemplary resilience and brilliance in world record attempt.

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    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has joined the academic and broader community in celebrating Sanusi Akanbi Kazeem, a 400-level Mathematics student of the University of Ilorin, who recently delivered a marathon 31-hour, 42-minute, and 54-second mathematics lesson—poised to break the Guinness World Record for the longest mathematics class, currently held at 26 hours.

    In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, Governor AbdulRazaq commended Kazeem’s determination and intellectual tenacity, describing the feat as a bold step toward global recognition. The Governor said the accomplishment reflects not just academic brilliance but also remarkable courage, resilience, and the spirit of excellence that defines the Kwara youth.

    While the official verification by the Guinness World Records is awaited, the Governor noted that Kazeem has already secured a place of pride for himself, his university, and Kwara State.

    The Governor also extended congratulations to Kazeem’s family, academic mentors, and the University of Ilorin community for the support and foundation that enabled this outstanding effort.

    “Kazeem has exhibited not just brilliance and capacity; his achievement is, in fact, a rare act of bravery, resilience, and can-do spirit,” the Governor said. “Whatever the decision of the Guinness World Records, we celebrate this Maths nerd for his efforts and his determination to be great.”

  • Kwara Govt Trains 1,800 Primary School Teachers in Digital Literacy, Classroom Innovation

    Kwara Govt Trains 1,800 Primary School Teachers in Digital Literacy, Classroom Innovation

    … Workshop aims to equip teachers with 21st-century skills for improved learning outcomes

    No fewer than 1,800 primary school teachers drawn from the sixteen Local Government Areas of Kwara State are currently participating in a ten-day capacity-building workshop focused on digital literacy, classroom innovation, and modern teaching methods.

    The workshop, which began on Monday at Queen Elizabeth Secondary School, Ilorin, is organised by KwaraLEARN in collaboration with the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (KWSUBEB) and the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development.

    It forms part of the state’s broader education reform strategy aimed at enhancing learning outcomes through teacher empowerment.

    In his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, charged the teachers to remain committed to their critical role in shaping the future of the state by equipping young learners with the right knowledge and values.

    Dr. Olohungbebe emphasised that the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration is focused on transitioning from analog to digital education through continuous teacher training and deployment of digital tools in classrooms.

    “The purpose of this training is to empower our teachers to meet the challenges of the digital age. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration is committed to global best practices in education, and this workshop is one of several initiatives aimed at transforming our learning environment,” he said.

    The Commissioner expressed confidence that the training will have a direct positive impact on classroom teaching and learning, urging the participants to take full advantage of the opportunity and apply the knowledge gained for the advancement of their pupils and the education sector at large.

    The Managing Director of KwaraLEARN, Mrs. Laide Abel, congratulated the participants and encouraged them to be actively engaged throughout the sessions in order to derive maximum benefit from the programme.

    The workshop continues through the week, with hands-on sessions designed to make classrooms more engaging, inclusive, and tech-savvy for today’s learners.

  • 1,800 Shortlisted for TESCOM Teaching Jobs in Kwara State — Applicants to Check Status on Portal 

    1,800 Shortlisted for TESCOM Teaching Jobs in Kwara State — Applicants to Check Status on Portal 

    …Governor AbdulRazaq praised for non-interference, commitment to quality education

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    One-thousand-eight-hundred (1,800) applicants have been shortlisted for teaching appointments at the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), following a rigorous and transparent selection process. The shortlisted applicants emerged from a thorough screening exercise that included online applications, computer-based tests, and oral interviews spanning a period of three months. The process was conducted in line with global best practices to ensure that only the most qualified and competent individuals are selected.

    According to a statement issued by the Commission, the successful candidates are to be deployed across senior secondary schools in the 16 local government areas of the state, based on a comprehensive needs assessment. Of the total number, 790 candidates representing 44% were selected to teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects; 581 were shortlisted for core subjects; 370 for specialized areas; and 59 for technical subjects. The TESCOM portal has been updated for applicants to check their status.

    As part of the final stages of the recruitment process, all shortlisted applicants will undergo a mandatory drug test, to be conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). This measure, coordinated by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Abuse, Prevention and Control, Hon. Mukail Olamilekan Aileru, is to ensure that only candidates with sound mental and physical health are entrusted with the education of school children. The drug test is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 9, and end on Saturday, April 12, 2025. The Kwara State Government has fully covered the cost of the test.

    The NDLEA will forward the drug test results directly to the Commission to maintain the integrity of the process and guard against any form of tampering or forgery. In addition, shortlisted candidates are required to present medical certificates from a state-owned hospital, submit original copies of their credentials for verification, and hand in photocopies for documentation. They will also submit handwritten letters of acceptance of the job offer and sign a six-year bond not to seek transfers, especially from rural postings, as part of a strategic effort to address the shortage of teachers in underserved areas.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, has been commended for his insistence on a merit-based, transparent process free of political interference. The Commission noted that his leadership has once again set a new standard in public service recruitment, restoring trust in government and proving that competence and character remain the key criteria in public appointments. This policy direction, the statement added, reinforces the Governor’s commitment to building a quality and inclusive education system in the state.

    The Commission encouraged successful applicants to begin their documentation in line with their scheduled drug test dates at the TESCOM headquarters in Ilorin. It also acknowledged the participation of indigenes, non-indigenes, and 31 persons living with disabilities (PLWDs), all of whom made the shortlist on merit.