Kwara Rising

Category: Infrastructure

  • 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

    #KwaraRising

    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.

  • International Aviation College Ilorin Graduates 19 Pilots, Including 10 Nigerian Army Officers

    International Aviation College Ilorin Graduates 19 Pilots, Including 10 Nigerian Army Officers

    … Governor AbdulRazaq Highlights Discipline, Teamwork as Key to Success

    #KwaraRising

    The International Aviation College (IAC) Ilorin has marked a historic milestone by graduating 19 student pilots, including 10 enrollees from the Nigerian Army—the highest number of military trainees in the institution’s history.

    Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Friday, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized the importance of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork in achieving success. Represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Saadatu Modibbo-Kawu, the Governor congratulated the graduates and commended the partnership between the College and the Nigerian Army.

    “It’s been six months of rigorous training that got you here. You have learned a lot within the period, from perseverance to discipline and teamwork. You must sustain these to succeed,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated.

    The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Brigadier General Ezra Barkins of the 22 Armoured Brigade Nigerian Army Sobi, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to strengthening its aviation unit. He noted that the training will enhance the Nigerian Army’s air mobility and reconnaissance capabilities, contributing to national security efforts.

    “As you graduate today, embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth. With perseverance and resilience, you will go beyond the sky. Exhibit the core values of the Nigerian Army, remain focused, and build a legacy that will endure throughout history,” Brigadier General Barkins charged the new pilots.

    The Rector of IAC, Captain Yakubu Okahtai, highlighted the significance of the Private Pilot License (PPL) training, describing it as a gateway to advanced aviation careers. He praised the Kwara State Government for its unwavering support, stating that the collaboration with the Nigerian Army has laid a strong foundation for future training programs.

    One of the standout graduates, Musa Aliu Damilola, gained recognition after building mini aircraft and drones three years ago. He expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for sponsoring his aviation education.

    “I appreciate His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for supporting my dream. I never expected to be here today, but here I am, graduating with my PPL and pursuing my Commercial Pilot License (CPL). He made my dream come true,” Musa said.

    Speaking on behalf of the graduating pilots, Lieutenant Smart Ebube Aghogho acknowledged the rigorous training and expressed appreciation to the instructors and the Nigerian Army for the opportunity.

    “This marks the culmination of months of hard work, perseverance, dedication, and rigorous training. We have overcome countless challenges, from sleepless nights of studying to weekend flying and cross-country navigation,” he said.

    The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Barrister Sabitiyu Grillo; Registrar of the College, Titilayo Sulaiman Wopa; and flight instructors.

    Since March 2022, the International Aviation College Ilorin has graduated 62 students, solidifying its reputation as a leading aviation training institution in Nigeria.

  • Ajikobi Cottage Hospital Now Enjoys 24-Hour Power Supply with Solar Inverter Installation

    Ajikobi Cottage Hospital Now Enjoys 24-Hour Power Supply with Solar Inverter Installation

    …Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq: Powering Healthcare Advancements for a Stronger Kwara

    #KwaraRising

    In a significant step towards improving healthcare delivery, the Kwara State Government has installed a 10KVA solar inverter at Ajikobi Cottage Hospital in Ilorin West Local Government Area, ensuring uninterrupted power supply for the facility.

    The Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Hospital Management Board (KWHMB), Dr. Abdulraheem Malik, confirmed this development while inspecting the installation. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the state government’s commitment to providing essential infrastructure for quality healthcare services. According to him, the installation follows a thorough needs assessment conducted by the Board to identify critical gaps in hospital operations.

    Dr. Malik assured that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration remains dedicated to replicating similar improvements across hospitals and healthcare facilities statewide. He urged hospital staff to maintain the inverter properly to ensure its longevity and effectiveness. The Executive Secretary further reiterated the government’s ongoing efforts to upgrade hospital structures, reaffirming its dedication to strengthening the healthcare system for all Kwarans.

  • Kwara TESCOM Invites 180 Applicants for Makeup Interview as Teachers’ Recruitment Nears Final Stage

    Kwara TESCOM Invites 180 Applicants for Makeup Interview as Teachers’ Recruitment Nears Final Stage

    … Supplementary Screening Scheduled to Address Subject and Local Government Gaps

    The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has invited 180 additional applicants who participated in its computer-based test (CBT) for a makeup interview as part of the final stage of its teacher recruitment exercise. The makeup interview is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 26, at the TESCOM headquarters in Ilorin.

    According to the TESCOM Chairman, the makeup exercise was initiated to address gaps in certain subject areas and across 15 local government areas, excluding Ilorin West. The affected subjects include Chemistry, English Language, Mathematics, Islamic Studies, Christian Studies, History, Physics, Geography, French, Yoruba, and Commerce.

    “This is a makeup exercise which affects all but Ilorin West Local Government Area. Our analysis shows that some local governments have shortfalls in a few subject areas, and we need to screen some of the applicants who meet the basic requirements from the CBT to take up their slots. It is basically about marrying merit, equity, and realities for the overall benefit of the state,” the chairman stated.

    He explained that the invited candidates were selected under special considerations to fill vacant slots in their respective local government areas without compromising due process and competence. Some of the invitees had scored between 45 and 59 in the CBT, below the initial cutoff mark of 60, while others scored 60 and above but were either above 35 years of age or held third-class degrees in relevant subjects. The initial criteria had prioritized first and second-class degree holders.

    The 180 invitees are spread across different local government areas, with some of the highest numbers coming from Kaiama, Ekiti, Baruten, and Oke Ero, while Asa, Ifelodun, and Ilorin East have fewer invitees. Ilorin West remains unaffected by the exercise. TESCOM emphasized that the process remains committed to transparency and fairness, ensuring that all eligible candidates are given the opportunity to contribute to the state’s education sector.

  • Gov AbdulRazaq Completes Reconstruction of 12km Ajase Ipo – Oke Iya Road

    Gov AbdulRazaq Completes Reconstruction of 12km Ajase Ipo – Oke Iya Road

    …Improved road access to boost local economy, ease transportation for farmers

    Residents of Irepodun Local Government Area, Kwara State, have expressed appreciation to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, for the completion of the 12km Ajase Ipo – Oke Iya Road.

    The reconstructed road, which connects several agrarian communities, is expected to enhance road safety and stimulate economic growth by making it easier for local farmers to transport their produce to markets.

    This project is part of Governor AbdulRazaq’s rural-urban renewal initiative, aimed at upgrading critical infrastructure across the state.

    His administration’s continued investment in road construction, rehabilitation, and development has been widely praised for improving accessibility and driving development in both urban and rural areas.

    As Kwarans commend the governor for previous road projects, the successful reconstruction of the Ajase Ipo – Oke Iya Road stands as yet another testament to his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and the well-being of the people.

  • General Hospital Oro Now Enjoys 24-Hour Power Supply

    General Hospital Oro Now Enjoys 24-Hour Power Supply

    …Governor AbdulRazaq’s. commitment to healthcare infrastructure yields results

    General Hospital Oro has joined the list of state hospitals with uninterrupted power supply following the installation of a 30KVA solar inverter system (10KVA x 3), ensuring round-the-clock electricity for the facility.

    This development aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s directive for the Hospitals Management Board to conduct a thorough needs assessment across state hospitals, identifying and addressing service delivery gaps to improve healthcare access.

    Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Oro Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba Joel, the Oloro of Oro, commended the governor for his unwavering commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure. He emphasized that the new power system would significantly improve medical service delivery at the hospital, eliminating disruptions caused by power outages and ultimately saving lives.

    The Oloro also reaffirmed the community’s confidence in the administration’s efforts to further improve public infrastructure and essential services across the state.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Inspects Prototype Multistorey School in Ilorin

    Governor AbdulRazaq Inspects Prototype Multistorey School in Ilorin

    …Reaffirms commitment to public education, digital literacy, and infrastructure development

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has inspected the newly constructed multistorey prototype primary school in Adeta, Ilorin, describing it as a major step in upgrading public school infrastructure alongside investments in quality teaching.

    Speaking during the inspection over the weekend, the governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to bridging gaps in school infrastructure and digital literacy through initiatives like KwaraLEARN, which integrates technology into classrooms to enhance learning outcomes.

    He noted that the state’s investment in public education has led to a surge in enrollment, as more parents transfer their children from private schools to government institutions due to improved teaching standards.

    Governor AbdulRazaq described the Adeta school as a model for future learning environments, stating that his administration remains dedicated to strengthening the education sector to ensure every child has access to quality learning opportunities.

  • Kwara State Ministry of Youths Development Seeks Collaboration with CAC to Empower Young Entrepreneurs

    Kwara State Ministry of Youths Development Seeks Collaboration with CAC to Empower Young Entrepreneurs

    …Commissioner Amb. Ndanusa Usman Shehu Leads Delegation to CAC Office.

    In a bid to foster enhanced collaborations aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs and driving economic growth, the Kwara State Ministry of Youths Development, led by the Commissioner, Amb. Ndanusa Usman Shehu, has paid a courtesy visit to the office of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Ilorin.

    According to a release from the Ministry, the visit was aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs by simplifying business registration processes, providing mentorship, and ensuring compliance with regulatory policies. Amb. Ndanusa emphasized that the partnership with CAC would create opportunities for youths in the state, particularly in areas such as business registration, access to regulatory support, and capacity-building initiatives.

    “We seek to partner with you to simplify the process of formalizing youths-led businesses, provide mentorship, and encourage compliance with business regulations to promote sustainable entrepreneurship. This engagement reflects the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, job creation, and economic development,” the Commissioner stated during the meeting.

    The Director of CAC, Mr. Tunde Adeoti, welcomed the initiative, noting that the Commission had been engaging with various state ministries, parastatals, and agencies to educate youths on the importance of business registration. He highlighted the significance of youths’ participation in the formal economy and assured that the Commission would explore ways to provide technical support, awareness campaigns, and capacity-building programs tailored to young entrepreneurs.

    Mr. Adeoti further emphasized the benefits of formalizing businesses, stating that registered entities could access government support and attract foreign investors for partnerships. “The Federal Government is committed to transforming informal businesses into formal entities, helping them grow and stabilize, which will ultimately contribute to economic growth,” he added.

    The meeting was attended by key officials, including the Director of Personnel, Finance, and Supply of the Ministry, Dr. Mrs. Funmilola Adenike Ajide; Director of Youths, Alh. Abdulsalam Akeem; Assistant Director of Administration, Mr. Sikiru Aminu; Assistant Director of CAC, Mrs. Mujidat Bashar; and Principal Youths Development Officer, Mr. Taofik Zubair.

  • Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Drives Urban Renewal with Upgrade of Key Ilorin Road

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Drives Urban Renewal with Upgrade of Key Ilorin Road

    …Post Office – Emirs Road – Isale Oja Reconstruction to Boost Commerce, Ease Traffic in Kwara Capital

    As part of his administration’s aggressive urban-rural renewal agenda, Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has commenced the upgrade of the bustling Post Office – Emirs Road – Isale Oja Road in Ilorin, a critical artery connecting businesses, markets, and residential communities.

    The project, which includes reconstruction and modernization of the road, aims to enhance vehicular movement, improve access to the iconic Oja Oba market, and stimulate economic activities in the state capital.

    Recognized as one of Kwara’s busiest commercial corridors, the road’s upgrade is expected to reduce gridlock, bolster trade, and uplift the livelihoods of thousands of residents and traders.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has prioritized infrastructure development over the past five years, channeling investments into road construction and rehabilitation across urban and rural communities.

    This latest project aligns with his vision to bridge infrastructure gaps, drive economic growth, and improve the quality of life for Kwarans.

    The Post Office – Emirs Road – Isale Oja project joins a growing list of completed and ongoing road upgrades under AbdulRazaq’s tenure, including rural access roads linking agrarian communities to urban markets. These efforts have earned the Governor bipartisan acclaim, positioning Kwara as a state on the rise

  • Kwara TESCOM Nears Recruitment Finish Line, Extends Gratitude to 4,163 Interviewees

    …State Commission: Merit, Equity, and Local Needs Guide Final Selection

    According to a release by the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), the agency has entered the final phase of its teacher recruitment drive, commending applicants for their participation in a process reflecting public confidence in Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration.

    Per the statement, 4,163 candidates were screened and interviewed out of 5,290 initially invited, with 2,169 females and 1,994 males participating. The commission noted that 54.1% (2,252) of interviewees applied for STEM-related subjects, highlighting efforts to address critical educational gaps.

    TESCOM Chairman Mallam Bello Taoheed, according to the release, confirmed the commission will finalize 1,800 hires, prioritizing merit, equity, and local government needs. “We wish we could employ everyone who excelled, but vacancies are limited,” he stated. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after internal reviews and must undergo mandatory drug tests by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    The chairman emphasized transparency in the process, which included computer-based tests and interviews, attributing the gap between invited and interviewed applicants to absences or unmet criteria.