Kwara Rising

Category: Education

  • Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Champions Digital Empowerment and Infrastructure Development in Kwara

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Champions Digital Empowerment and Infrastructure Development in Kwara

    …As first lady visits, commissions projects

    #KwaraRising

    Excitement filled the air in Ilorin on Tuesday as Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commenced a three-day visit to Kwara State. The visit, marked by the unveiling of several landmark projects, underscored Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to digital empowerment, healthcare, and infrastructure development in the state.

    First Lady Inaugurates Key Projects

    Senator Tinubu’s visit began with the inauguration of the ICT Community Centre at the Kwara State University of Education, a project built by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a foundation led by the First Lady.

    The centre is expected to provide invaluable opportunities for youth and women, equipping them with essential ICT skills to break traditional barriers and access new opportunities.

    The First Lady also inaugurated an ultra-modern Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, two major healthcare projects initiated by Governor AbdulRazaq.

    These facilities are set to significantly enhance the state’s healthcare delivery system.

    Groundbreaking Ceremonies and Project Tours

    Over the next two days, Senator Tinubu is scheduled to unveil or conduct groundbreaking ceremonies for several other projects. These include the Emir Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover and the Gen. Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, both of which are set for inauguration on Wednesday.

    Additionally, the rescheduled groundbreaking ceremony for the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital will take place on Wednesday.

    The First Lady will also tour other iconic projects initiated by Governor AbdulRazaq, such as the Innovation Hub, Visual Arts Centre, and the Garment Factory.

    These projects are reputed to be among the best of their kind in the country, reflecting the governor’s vision for a technologically advanced and economically vibrant Kwara State.

    *State Dinner and Royal Homage*

    Later on Tuesday, the First Lady attended a state dinner organized in her honor by the Kwara State government at the Flower Garden, a recently revitalized recreational facility that was once a hideout for criminal activities.

    The event was attended by prominent figures, including Vice President’s wife Nana Shettima, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, First Ladies from across the country, federal and state parliamentarians, cabinet members, and party elders.

    Senator Tinubu also paid a visit to the palace of the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, who offered prayers for President Tinubu, the First Lady, and Governor AbdulRazaq.

    The Emir praised the governor for his achievements and unwavering support for the President.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s Vision for a Digital Future

    Speaking at the inauguration of the ICT Community Centre, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu and the First Lady for their impactful initiatives. He emphasized the importance of technology in securing a prosperous future for the people of Kwara.

    “Technology is here to stay, and the only path forward is to aggressively invest in the skills and infrastructure that will secure a prosperous future for our people,” the Governor said. “As we commission this ICT Community Centre today, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to Her Excellency and the Renewed Hope Initiative for this remarkable investment in our community and youth.”

    The Governor also commended the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, for their support in realizing the project’s objectives.

    A Call to Protect and Utilize New Facilities

    Mrs. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, the Governor’s wife, urged the host school and users of the new ICT Centre to protect the facility and take full advantage of its services. She highlighted the project’s role in promoting digital empowerment and fostering a technology-enabled equitable future for all Nigerians.

    The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, reiterated the President’s commitment to harnessing the potentials of digital innovation to drive national prosperity and inclusivity.

    Food Support for the Vulnerable

    As part of her visit, the First Lady, led by Nana Shettima, distributed food support to vulnerable groups under the Renewed Hope Initiative and ASR Initiative. Governor AbdulRazaq commended this intervention, expressing his gratitude to the First Lady for her efforts in alleviating the plight of the less privileged.

    The three-day visit of Senator Oluremi Tinubu to Kwara State not only highlights the significant strides made under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration but also shows the collaborative efforts between the state and federal governments in driving development and empowerment across Nigeria.

  • Kwara Govt Begins Training for Mega Empowerment Enumerators

    Kwara Govt Begins Training for Mega Empowerment Enumerators

    The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, has commenced the training of enumerators for its highly anticipated mega empowerment initiative. The program kicked off Thursday, January 23, 2025, in Ilorin, the state capital.

    In a statement issued to the press, Princess Bukola Babalola, Deputy Chief of Staff and Chairperson of the Empowerment Committee, confirmed the development, highlighting the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency.

    Announced towards the end of 2024, the mega empowerment initiative is designed to support Kwarans from all walks of life, with beneficiaries selected irrespective of political affiliations.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has earned widespread recognition for its impactful empowerment programs, including the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP), which has significantly uplifted youths and traders across the state.

    The forthcoming mega empowerment is expected to set a new standard, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to improving the livelihoods of Kwarans.

    “This empowerment initiative reflects the Governor’s resolve to build a prosperous Kwara where opportunities are accessible to all,” Princess Babalola said.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Advances Kwara’s Technological Growth with N482 Million Dual ICT Projects in Shonga and Ilorin

    Governor AbdulRazaq Advances Kwara’s Technological Growth with N482 Million Dual ICT Projects in Shonga and Ilorin

    The Kwara State Government has embarked on a significant technological advancement journey with the commencement of two major Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) projects, collectively valued at N482 million. These initiatives include the N240 million Shonga ICT hub and the N242 million Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) tech hub, both championed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON.

    The Shonga ICT project, officially handed over to Skylat-One Nigeria Ltd., is a direct response to the community’s request for a modern ICT center. Speaking at the handover event in Shonga, the Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, highlighted the state government’s unwavering commitment to providing socio-economic infrastructure that fosters technological advancement in Kwara.

    “The Ultra-Modern ICT project in Shonga is a testament to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision for economic growth and development. This project will significantly impact the local economy and create numerous job opportunities for the people of Shonga and surrounding communities,” Hon. Adelodun stated.

    She further emphasized the project as a key example of the state government’s dedication to improving the ease of doing business, urging the contractor to ensure quality delivery and value for money.

    The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Mary Kemi Adeoshun, also praised the government’s efforts, noting the project’s potential to stimulate economic growth and urging efficient use of resources to meet the agreed timeline.

    The Emir of Shonga, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Haliru Ndanusa Yahaya, expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for addressing the community’s needs. He underscored the importance of the project in enhancing the local educational system, fostering economic growth, and promoting social development. The Emir reiterated the community’s long-standing advocacy for quality skills in computer literacy and the digital economy, essential for socio-economic advancement.

    Simultaneously, the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) tech hub, a project pledged by Governor AbdulRazaq, is set to bolster technological infrastructure in Ilorin. This project has been widely praised by residents, reflecting the Governor’s commitment to fostering technological innovation and enhancing the state’s digital landscape.

    Contractor Adegboyega Akinwumi of Skylat-One Nigeria Ltd. assured that the Shonga ICT project would be delivered to the highest standards, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the state’s development.

    These ICT hubs are part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s broader strategy to position Kwara State as a leader in technological innovation, providing essential infrastructure to support education, drive economic growth, and create jobs. His administration continues to receive accolades for its forward-thinking initiatives, reinforcing Kwara’s status as a hub for technological and economic development.

  • Kwara Education : Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq Approves Recruitment of 1,800 Teachers

    Kwara Education : Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq Approves Recruitment of 1,800 Teachers

    … Tescom’s Boss commends AbdulRahman’s continued investment in education

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has approved the recruitment of 1,800 senior secondary school teachers, 100 non-teaching staff, and 200 security guards to enhance the safety and quality of education in schools across the state.

    The recruitment will particularly target rural areas, where there is a pressing shortage of teachers.

    In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Mallam Bello Tauheed Abubakar, it was announced that the application process will soon be made available online. Applicants will be required to possess a university degree in education or a degree in a relevant field with a teaching certificate, such as B.Ed, BSc. Ed, B.A. Ed, BSc plus PGDE, or NCE. Those without the specified qualifications will not be considered.

    The recruitment is aimed at addressing the human resource gap in rural schools, with a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.

    Applicants in the Arts and Commercial fields will also be considered, and the relevant subject areas will be listed on the application portal. TESCOM has urged applicants whose subject areas are not specified not to apply.

    Further, all applicants will be required to upload their certificate of local government origin and provide proof of their local government of residence at different stages of the recruitment process. Additional requirements may be announced as the process progresses.

    After the online application, applicants will undergo a Computer-Based Test (CBT), with only those who meet the required standards being shortlisted for interviews and peer teaching sessions.

    In line with the state government’s commitment to fighting drug abuse, all shortlisted candidates will undergo mandatory drug tests.

    TESCOM also stated that applicants must not exceed 35 years of age by January 31, 2025. Any candidate who exhibits behavior unfit for a teacher will be disqualified at any stage of the recruitment process.

    The commission commended Governor Abdulrazaq for his continuous investment in public education since taking office in 2019, highlighting the Governor’s focus on improving educational standards across Kwara State.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Delivers Osi Campus, Keeps Promise of Inclusive Development

    Governor AbdulRazaq Delivers Osi Campus, Keeps Promise of Inclusive Development

    …A New Dawn for Tertiary Education in Kwara State

    KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has fulfilled his pledge to prioritize education and inclusive development by inaugurating the Osi Campus of Kwara State University (KWASU).

    The move signifies a milestone in his administration’s efforts to complete abandoned projects and drive regional growth.

    Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Abdulrazaq described the project as more than a simple infrastructure upgrade but a legacy initiative aimed at expanding access to quality education.

    He emphasized that his administration’s commitment to progress transcends political affiliations, ensuring all regions of Kwara benefit from sustainable development.

    “This is a lesson in history and a testament to strategic planning and determination. We promised never to abandon this project, and today, we celebrate its completion as a beacon of hope for future generations,” the Governor stated.

    Transforming Southern Kwara


    The newly inaugurated Osi Campus features modern lecture halls, state-of-the-art studios, laboratories, and a serene learning environment.

    These facilities underscore the administration’s focus on academic excellence, sustainable growth, and social inclusion.

    The Governor stressed that the project aligns with his broader vision to make Kwara a hub for innovation and technical expertise.

    The Osi Campus is home to the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, which now hosts programs in Geography and Remote Sensing, Urban and Regional Planning, and Estate Management, among others.

    The National Universities Commission (NUC) recently approved the inclusion of these courses, with plans to introduce Architecture and Quantity Surveying in the next academic session.

    A Collaborative Effort

    Governor Abdulrazaq expressed gratitude to the host community for their support during the project’s completion.

    He called on the students, staff, and management of KWASU to maximize the campus’s potential. “Let this campus become a breeding ground for world-class professionals who will bring honor to Kwara State and Nigeria,” he said.

    Senior officials, traditional rulers, and academic leaders attended the ceremony. Among them were KWASU Chancellor Dr. Johnson Bamidele Adewumi, Pro-Chancellor Prof. Abdulganiyu Ambali, and Vice Chancellor Prof. Sheikh Luqman Jimoh, who commended the Governor’s dedication to advancing education in the state.

    Traditional leaders like the Olosi of Osi, Oba Saliu Adasofegbe, also lauded the Governor for his impactful governance. The monarch highlighted other community-focused projects, including road construction, ICT centers, and support for local vigilante groups, as evidence of the administration’s commitment to improving Osi.

    A Promising Future

    The Governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to expand development across all sectors. He emphasized that the success of the Osi Campus and other projects stems from the collective efforts of Kwarans. “The fruits of today’s achievements are a testament to our shared dedication and hard work,” he said.

    Dr. Mary Arinde, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, described the campus as a transformative step towards empowering youth with skills and knowledge for a brighter future.

    As the first batch of students settles into the Osi Campus, the inauguration serves as a landmark in Kwara’s educational and developmental journey, setting a standard for excellence and inclusivity across the state.

  • AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq To Commission the Osi Campus of Kwara State University

    AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq To Commission the Osi Campus of Kwara State University

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, will officially commission Kwara State University’s newly built Osi Campus today, Wednesday. This major project, completed by his administration, represents a huge step forward in the governor’s continuous commitment to strengthening educational infrastructure and access throughout the state.

    The Osi Campus, designed to accommodate a growing student body and provide cutting-edge facilities, demonstrates the administration’s commitment to enhancing higher education.

    This effort is part of Governor AbdulRazaq’s larger ambition of establishing Kwara as a hub for academic achievement and innovation.

    The commissioning event will be attended by important stakeholders, government officials, academic leaders, and members of the community, indicating the widespread support for this landmark commissioning.