… Kwara State Government Continues Infrastructure Investments
The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, is currently upgrading Ibrahim Taiwo Road in Ilorin as part of its rural-urban development initiative aimed at enhancing infrastructure across the state.
Recognized as one of Ilorin’s busiest commercial roads, Ibrahim Taiwo Road serves as a major link for businesses and commuters. The ongoing upgrade is expected to improve vehicular movement, reduce traffic congestion, and boost economic activities in the area.
Over the last five years, Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has made massive investments in infrastructure, particularly in road construction, rehabilitation, and expansion, acknowledging its crucial role in economic growth and development.
The upgrade of Ibrahim Taiwo Road is one of many road projects being executed across the state to improve urban mobility and enhance rural connectivity. Similar to completed and ongoing road projects, this initiative has drawn widespread commendation from residents and stakeholders, further reinforcing Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to transforming Kwara’s infrastructure.
…Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s revival gives a new lease of life to the textile industry in Kwara
Kwara Garment Factory has successfully delivered premium-quality polo T-shirts, trousers, and bucket hats for the Young Farmers Club and the Women Agricultural Support Programme—two flagship initiatives under the Renewed Hope Initiative led by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, OON, CON.
These programs are designed to empower young farmers and women in agriculture, providing them with essential resources to enhance productivity and growth in the sector.
Speaking on the delivery, the Managing Director of Kwara Garment Factory, Hajia Bukola Adedeji, reaffirmed the factory’s dedication to excellence and its commitment to supporting impactful national initiatives.
“At Kwara Garment Factory, we are committed to excellence in garment production and are honored to contribute to this transformative initiative. Our goal is to provide durable, high-quality apparel that supports productivity and instills a sense of pride among participants.”
…. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Expands Tech Education to Bridge Digital Divide
#KwaraRising
The Kwara State Government has launched a Coding and Digital Literacy training programme aimed at equipping students from 50 public primary and junior secondary schools with essential digital skills.
The programme, spearheaded by the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Digital and Innovation, Hon. Ishola Kayode, was officially flagged off on Tuesday by the Senior Adviser and Counsellor to the Governor, Alhaji Sa’adu Salau, on behalf of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
Speaking at the launch held at Bishop Smith Junior Secondary School, Ilorin, Salau emphasized that the initiative is part of the administration’s broader investment in education and technology.
“We are now faced with the reality of the digital revolution. So, what we have done today is to flag off the training for digital literacy in 50 schools in Kwara State,” he stated.
He added that the programme targets over 150 students in each of the selected schools and aims to provide them with a strong foundation in digital skills, ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Among the schools in Ilorin benefiting from the pilot phase are Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin Grammar School, and Sheikh Alimi L.G.E.A Primary School.
Hon. Ishola highlighted the importance of digital literacy in problem-solving and community development.
“Public school students should not lag behind in the digital world. They should be digitally literate and capable of solving problems in their communities using technology,” he said.
According to him, the pilot phase includes 15 schools from Kwara Central, 13 from the North, and 22 from the South, with plans for expansion after a data-driven assessment of the programme’s impact.
Mrs. Akanbi Janet Ayoola, Principal of Bishop Smith College (Junior Session), commended the initiative, describing it as one of the best decisions by the state government in an era where technology and artificial intelligence play a crucial role in daily life.
Students, including Opadili Dorcas Boluwatife and Akinola Kolawole Abdulrahman, expressed their gratitude to the government, promising to make the most of the opportunity to enhance their digital knowledge and compete on a global scale.
The Kwara State Executive Council has approved the creation of two new ministries as part of a major restructuring aimed at improving governance efficiency, enhancing coordination, and aligning with the state’s growing developmental priorities.
The decision was made during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday morning, presided over by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, following a memorandum presented by the Acting Head of Service, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammed.
As part of the restructuring, the Ministry of Livestock Development has been carved out of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. This move is intended to bolster food security, strengthen livestock farming across Kwara’s 16 local government areas, and address the challenges associated with large-scale livestock production. The new ministry will play a key role in supporting farmers, herders, processors, and distributors across the livestock value chain, ensuring a more specialized focus on livestock development.
The council also approved the creation of the Ministry of Transportation, separating it from the Ministry of Works and Transport. This restructuring is designed to establish a well-organized transportation management system, ensuring efficient mobility for residents and optimizing the state’s expanding infrastructure network. As part of this reorganization, the Kwara State Road Traffic Management Agency (KWARTMA) will now be placed under the Ministry of Transportation instead of the Ministry of Works.
With these adjustments, Kwara State now has 22 ministries, up from 20, further strengthening the Governor AbdulRazaq-led administration’s commitment to streamlining governance and improving public service delivery. The restructuring is expected to enhance the effectiveness of government operations and ensure better service delivery across key sectors.
The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has adjusted the timetable for the ongoing screening and interview of applicants for teaching positions in public secondary schools across the state.
According to an updated statement by TESCOM Press Secretary, Sam Onile, the interview, which began on Tuesday with applicants from Asa, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Oke Ero, will now follow a revised schedule for the remaining candidates.
Under the new arrangement, all interview sessions will now hold exclusively at the KWASU International Conference Centre, including the session previously scheduled for Friday, February 28, 2025.
Revised Interview Schedule Day 2 (February 26, 2025)
Ilorin West – 1,310 Non-Kwarans – 362 Total: 1,672 All applicants who have been invited for the interview are expected to adhere to the revised schedule and ensure their appearance at the designated venue.
TESCOM reiterated its commitment to a fair and transparent recruitment process, urging candidates to arrive on time and bring along the required original documents for verification.
…Governor AbdulRazaq Prioritizes Sustainable Farming for Food Security and Economic Growth
The Kwara State Government has once again called on farmers to embrace climate-smart agricultural technologies to improve productivity and mitigate losses caused by unpredictable weather patterns. This charge was given by the Project Coordinator of the Kwara Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Project, Engr. Dr. Busari Toyin Isiaka, during a workshop for Women’s Agricultural Cooperatives and Women’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on climate-smart agricultural practices. The event was held in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area as part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainable farming across the state.
Dr. Busari emphasized that many of the losses suffered by farmers today result from noncompliance with modern, climate-adaptive agricultural techniques. He stated that the government is intensifying awareness campaigns to ensure that Kwara farmers adopt sustainable farming methods to avert losses and increase food production.
He further explained that the timing of the workshop was strategic, as the planting season is fast approaching. “This initiative is a crucial part of the SAPZ program, and farmers must apply the knowledge gained here to boost their productivity,” he said.
The SAPZ Coordinator also warned against environmentally harmful practices such as bush burning, overgrazing, and deforestation, which contribute to soil degradation, reduced crop yields, and climate change-related agricultural challenges.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Mr. Femi Yusuf, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his grassroots approach to governance and dedication to farmers’ welfare. He praised the administration’s commitment to gender inclusion in agriculture, noting that such initiatives empower women to play active roles in the state’s agricultural value chain.
“The passion of this administration for inclusive and sustainable agriculture is commendable. Ifelodun Local Government is fully prepared to leverage this initiative to improve food security and economic development,” Yusuf stated.
The resource person for the workshop, Mr. Gbadebo Elebiyo, advised farmers to adapt to changing weather patterns by using drought-resistant seeds and improving livestock breeds with local varieties. He stressed that climate change is altering traditional farming cycles, making it essential for farmers to embrace new techniques that ensure resilience and profitability.
The workshop drew participation from key agricultural stakeholders, including Hon. Abdulganiyu Folabi Salahu, a member representing Omupo Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, representatives of the Nigerian Association of Women in Agriculture (NAWIA), Mekunu Peoples Forum, and other agricultural groups.
With this initiative, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to champion innovative agricultural solutions to boost food security, increase farmers’ earnings, and sustain Kwara’s agricultural economy. The SAPZ program remains a key pillar of this strategy, equipping farmers with the necessary tools to adapt to climate change and maximize productivity.
The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has invited 5,928 applicants for interviews and screenings as part of the ongoing recruitment of 1,800 senior school teachers. The exercise, which follows the recently concluded Computer-Based Test (CBT), will take place from Tuesday, February 25, to Saturday, March 1, 2025.
According to a statement released by TESCOM Press Secretary, Sam Onile, applicants can check their status on the recruitment portal to confirm their eligibility for the next phase.
Cutoff Marks and Special Considerations TESCOM Chairman, Mallam Bello Taoheed, announced the cutoff scores for different categories of applicants, ensuring that qualified candidates from across the state are fairly represented:
Non-STEM subjects:
Kwara Indigenes: 60% Baruten, Isin, Oke Ero, and Patigi Indigenes: 50% (to encourage more applications from these areas) Non-Indigenes: 70% STEM Subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, Geography):
All Kwara Indigenes: 50% (to accommodate the demand for STEM teachers across the state) Special Consideration:
All 93 applicants from Kaiama Local Government Area automatically qualify for the interview. All 37 Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) who sat the CBT are also invited for the interview. Interview Schedule and Venues The interviews and screenings will take place at two designated venues:
Tuesday – Thursday: KWASU International Conference Centre, Sango, Ilorin Friday – Saturday: Kwara State Banquet Hall Day-by-day schedule for the interviews:
Day 1 (Feb 25) – Asa (186), Ilorin East (502), Ilorin South (205), Oke Ero (193) Total: 1,086 Day 2 (Feb 26) – Baruten (150), Edu (601), Patigi (281), Kaiama (93) Total: 1,125 Day 3 (Feb 27) – Ifelodun (413), Irepodun (372), Isin (225) Total: 1,070 Day 4 (Feb 28) – Moro (232), Offa (308), Ekiti (200), Oyun (231), Non-Kwarans (362) Total: 1,336 Day 5 (March 1) – Ilorin West (1,310) Required Documents and Drug Testing Applicants must attend the interview with original copies of their credentials, including:
NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate Birth Certificate or Court Affidavit (dated no earlier than June 30, 2024) Shortlisted candidates will also undergo a mandatory drug test at NDLEA-approved centers before their final selection.
“This is a highly competitive process, and only 1,800 applicants will be selected to join public senior secondary schools across Kwara State,” the statement added.
The Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration continues to prioritize quality education and merit-based recruitment, ensuring that only the most qualified and competent teachers are engaged to shape the future of Kwara’s students.
The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has successfully conducted a computer-based test (CBT) for 9,459 applicants seeking teaching positions in public secondary schools across the state. According to a release by the Press Secretary of TESCOM, Kwara State, Sam Onile, the examination took place across six centers in Ilorin, Offa, Oko, Patigi, and Lafiagi on Saturday, February 22, 2025.
The CBT serves as the qualifying stage for the recruitment of 1,800 teachers, with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects and rural education. The hiring exercise aims to fill critical teaching gaps in secondary schools across Kwara.
Reports indicate that applicants who selected Offa, Oko, and Patigi centers completed their exams earlier in the day, while the final batch in Lafiagi concluded their test later in the evening. Similarly, thousands of applicants at Unilorin, Kwara State College of Education (COED), and Ilorin West CBT Centers successfully wrote their exams in different batches.
TESCOM Releases Results, Announces Next Steps
Following the smooth conduct of the examination, TESCOM has released the CBT results, allowing applicants to check their scores on the official recruitment portal.
TESCOM Chairman, Mallam Bello Taoheed, confirmed that 8,529 candidates completed the exam across the designated centers, while the remaining 930 applicants did not show up for the test. The breakdown of candidates per center is as follows:
● COED Ilorin – 2,891
● Ilorin West LGA – 1,991
● UNILORIN – 1,677
● Lafiagi – 812
● Offa – 586
● Oko – 297
● Patigi – 275
“This is the first step after the exams. The Commission will soon release the cutoff marks, which will determine the candidates proceeding to the interview and screening stage,” Taoheed stated.
He assured applicants that TESCOM would soon communicate further details regarding the next phase of the recruitment exercise, including interview schedules and additional selection criteria.
With the completion of the CBT phase, the Kwara State Government remains committed to a transparent and merit-based recruitment process, ensuring that qualified teachers are selected to enhance the state’s public education system.
In an era where political grandstanding often overshadows substance, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has carved out a distinct governance style—one marked by quiet but impactful progress. His administration has faced challenges such as overcoming entrenched lawlessness in urban areas, addressing neglected infrastructure, and ensuring welfare programs reach marginalized communities. By implementing stringent urban planning laws, initiating comprehensive road rehabilitation projects, and expanding healthcare access, the administration has delivered tangible benefits to citizens. For instance, the enforcement of urban planning in Ilorin has curbed chaotic development, while the refurbishment of healthcare facilities has improved service delivery in rural areas, showcasing a governance style that prioritizes long-term, impactful solutions over superficial achievements.
Urban Renewal: Reshaping Kwara’s Capital
One of the hallmarks of AbdulRazaq’s administration is the urban renewal initiative, which has significantly transformed the landscape of Ilorin, the state capital. This initiative is not merely about aesthetics; it addresses long-standing issues of lawlessness and haphazard development that had plagued the city. By enforcing town planning laws and restoring order, the government has not only beautified the city but also laid the groundwork for sustainable development.
Driving through Taiwo Road, Unity, Challenge, and Ahmadu Bello Way, one cannot help but notice the transformation. These areas, once characterized by chaotic development, now exemplify order and modernity. Residents have expressed their delight at the improved road networks and aesthetic appeal, noting that the enhanced infrastructure has eased traffic flow and boosted local businesses. For instance, a shop owner in Unity remarked on how the organized environment has attracted more customers, while a resident of Challenge praised the reduction in congestion, making daily commutes more manageable. These testimonials highlight the tangible impact of the urban renewal efforts on everyday life. The enforcement of setbacks and adherence to approved building plans have been critical in achieving this transformation. The administration’s firm stance on these issues, despite initial resistance, underscores its commitment to long-term urban planning.
The government’s efforts in urban renewal have also fostered a sense of pride among residents. The new and improved infrastructure not only enhances the city’s aesthetic appeal but also boosts economic activities. The ongoing development of a Central Business District is a case in point. This area, spanning from the Challenge area through the Post Office to the Government House, is set to become a hub of economic activity, further cementing Ilorin’s status as a modern capital city.
In addition to these developments, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, recently visited Ilorin to inaugurate several key projects. Among them were two newly constructed flyovers, named in honor of the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the late General Tunde Idiagbon. These flyovers are expected to significantly enhance traffic flow and contribute to the city’s modernization efforts.
Furthermore, the First Lady commissioned an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Community Centre at the Kwara State College of Education in Ilorin. This project, a collaboration between the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aims to empower communities by providing access to digital resources and training.
Infrastructure Development: A Statewide Approach
While some critics argue that the administration’s focus has been primarily on Ilorin, a closer examination reveals a more balanced approach. Significant projects are underway across various districts, reflecting a commitment to statewide development. The selection and prioritization of these projects are based on a comprehensive needs assessment, which takes into account the unique challenges and requirements of each district. This ensures that resources are allocated effectively to address critical issues, whether it be improving road infrastructure in rural areas, upgrading healthcare facilities, or enhancing educational opportunities. By tailoring initiatives to meet the specific needs of diverse communities, the administration aims to foster inclusive and balanced growth throughout the state. For instance, in Oro district alone, there are numerous projects ranging from road infrastructure to healthcare and education.
Among the notable projects is the Kwara Sugar Film Factory along Ajase Ipo Road in Ilorin. This facility aims to reposition Kwara as a hub for the creative industry, fostering job creation and youth empowerment. Similarly, the Ilorin Innovation Hub is more than just a workspace; it is a catalyst for technological growth and collaboration among young innovators.
Another significant project is the Shea Butter Factory in Wozibe, Kaima Local Government Area. This initiative, in partnership with the World Trade Organization and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, aims to modernize shea butter processing. By adopting international standards, the project seeks to enhance the value chain and boost the local economy.
The Ilorin Visual Arts Centre, designed as an Institute for African Art and Film, is another bold initiative. It signifies a commitment to cultural preservation and the promotion of arts, positioning Kwara as a center for artistic expression in Nigeria.
Sustaining the Momentum
As the administration enters its final years, the focus remains on completing ongoing projects and laying the groundwork for future initiatives. The Smart City Plan, a component of the state’s master plan, exemplifies the forward-thinking approach of AbdulRazaq’s government. While some projects may extend beyond his tenure, the foundation being laid today ensures continuity and sustainability.
In conclusion, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s quiet yet impactful governance offers valuable lessons in leadership. By prioritizing substance over spectacle, he has been able to achieve significant milestones that promise long-term benefits for the people of Kwara State. As citizens, it is our collective responsibility to acknowledge these achievements and support the administration’s efforts to build a better Kwara for all.
… Stakeholders laud Governor Abdulrazaq’s administration stance on digital skill education.
The Kwara State Government has launched a digital literacy training program aimed at equipping over 28,000 adolescent girls in 70 public secondary schools across the state’s three senatorial districts.
The initiative, organized by the Kwara State Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development in collaboration with the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, is tagged “Digital Literacy Skills Programme for Educators and Secondary School Girls.”
Declaring the 5-day workshop open at Bovina View Hotels, the State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, emphasized the project’s significance as part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to improving education. Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Rebecca Bake Olanrewaju, the Commissioner highlighted that AGILE aims to enhance secondary education opportunities for adolescent girls, particularly those facing educational disadvantages.
“The AGILE Project is designed to construct and renovate school structures, provide Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities, and supply essential learning materials,” she said.
She further explained that the initiative includes Life Skills and Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) sub-components, which provide female students with training on health, reproductive and emotional development, as well as financial support for disadvantaged learners to help them complete secondary education.
“Digital skills will make our students more relevant in society. This will not only keep them up to date with global trends but also create employment opportunities after their secondary education,” Modibbo Kawu added.
The Project Coordinator of Kwara AGILE, Mr. Adeshina Salami, praised Governor AbdulRazaq for bringing the project to the state, calling it “a great opportunity to equip adolescent girls with relevant digital skills to compete in the labor market.” He noted that the initiative, supported by the World Bank, is part of the Federal Ministry of Education’s broader efforts to improve secondary education for girls.
“Adolescent girls often face socio-cultural and financial challenges that prevent them from completing their education. This program aims to make education more appealing and equip them with 21st-century skills to compete with their peers globally,” Salami stated.
In his remarks, the Team Lead of TedPrime Hub, the project’s implementing partner, Mr. Olamilekan Adeeko, revealed that 70 teachers are being trained, who will then retrain an additional 210 teachers. Together, they will train 8,000 girls, with a long-term goal of reaching 28,000 students.
“What these students learn will contribute to improving the economic standards of Kwara State, Nigeria, and the African continent. Our objective is to prepare them for future jobs and enable them to compete globally,” Adeeko said.
World Bank Consultant on Digital Literacy Skills, Ms. Ese Adeluyi, presented a paper on “Shifting Perspectives: Making Digital Skills Training Engaging and Relatable,” stressing the vital role of teachers in student learning. Similarly, Microsoft Africa’s Education Industry Director, Ms. Angela Nganga, discussed “Microsoft’s Commitment and the Future of Work/Potential Opportunities for Gender Inclusion,” encouraging girls to aspire for success in technology-driven careers.
In their goodwill messages, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Mary Kemi Adeosun, and the Executive Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Mallam Bello Tauheed, represented by Prince Kunle Yusuf, commended the government for prioritizing digital education for young girls in the state.
