…Governor AbdulRazaq’s Bold Steps in Educational Advancement
The Kwara State Government has unveiled a groundbreaking prototype for future public primary school buildings, marking a significant step in Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s mission to revolutionize the education sector. As Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON continues to prioritize education through strategic leadership, recruitment of qualified educators, prompt salary payments, and substantial investment in infrastructure.
A testament to his unwavering dedication is the construction of a three-storey modern primary school at Adeta in Ilorin West Local Government Area. Designed in line with the new prototype, this facility will provide an enhanced learning environment and improved amenities to benefit young learners across the state.
The state-of-the-art school will feature:
Administrative Facilities:
Headmaster’s Office
Deputy Headmaster’s Office
Large Administrative Office
General Office
Sickbay
Classrooms and Learning Spaces:
15 Classrooms for Pre-Primary Pupils
15 Classrooms for Lower Primary (Grades 1-3)
15 Classrooms for Upper Primary (Grades 4-6)
2 Science Laboratories
2 Large Art Rooms
2 Spacious Staff Rooms
Library
2 ICT Laboratories
Additional Facilities:
Expansive Outdoor Play Area
Adequate Toilets
Upon completion, these modern educational structures will rank among the best in Northern Nigeria, significantly enhancing the standard of public primary education in Kwara State.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has already rehabilitated and constructed thousands of public schools, reaffirming his commitment to sustainable educational development. His significant investments have yielded remarkable results, as Kwara students continue to excel in national and international competitions, including the prestigious annual presidential debate.
With Governor AbdulRazaq’s continued dedication, the future of education in Kwara State remains bright, ensuring that every child has access to quality learning environments and opportunities for academic excellence.
… …Governor AbdulRazaq Prioritizes Education Infrastructure for Quality Learning
The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to revitalizing the education sector with the inspection of the ongoing construction of a prototype primary school in Adeta, Ilorin West Local Government Area. The state-of-the-art facility, designed to provide a conducive learning environment, is set to become a model for primary education in Kwara.
The three-storey building will feature modern learning conveniences, including a cooling system, fully equipped classrooms, water and electricity reticulation, alternative power sources such as generating sets and solar energy, digital boards, an e-library, and a well-structured playing ground to support both academic and extracurricular activities.
During the inspection, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, emphasized the state government’s insistence on quality work and warned against any substandard execution of the project. He urged the contractor to adhere strictly to the agreed project timeline, ensuring that the facility is completed on schedule for the benefit of the people.
Dr. Ogunsola assured the contractor of the state government’s willingness to provide necessary support to ensure the smooth execution of the project. He also pledged regular inspections to guarantee that the construction meets the high standards expected by the government.
Accompanying the Commissioner on the inspection were Director of Building Services, Architect Bilyaminu Lawal; Director of Public Buildings and Works, Builder Femi Ibiyinka; and other officials from the ministry.
The prototype school project is part of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration’s broader vision to enhance basic education infrastructure and provide young learners with the best possible learning environment, aligning with global best practices in primary education.
The recent visit to Kwara State by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu to commission some landmark projects executed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq has ended criticisms by the opposition parties that no project had been commissioned by his administration.
One of the criticisms against Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq by the opposition parties in Kwara State was the non-commissioning of “any project” since his assumption of office. But the negative impression was confined to the dustbin of history when the wife of President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, visited the 58 years old state on the invitation of the governor between January 28 and 30, 2025, and commissioned about 10 major projects built by the administration. The list was not exhausted as other projects are ongoing with the expansive 10-storey building of the Kwara State Internal Revenue Services (KWIRS) becoming a reference point.
The monumental projects, named after some iconic Nigerian personalities, mostly of Kwaran descent, dwarfed the initial criticisms by some Kwarans. However, the critics, rather than acknowledge the governor’s efforts, held the position that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rather than his wife should have paid the working visit to the state “if there was no love lost between the governor and the president.”
The kennel of the commissioning was the opening of two overhead bridges – one at the Tanke end of the state capital to decongest the route to the University of Ilorin and the other at Unity Roundabout .
On the entourage of the First Lady were the wives of the Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief of Staff to the President and the wives of some state governors.
Senator Tinubu’s first point of call was the Kwara State University of Education, where she inaugurated the ICT Community Centre built under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA); Intensive Care Unit, and Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, among others.
She then paid homage to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari at his palace. The Emir applauded her for her unflinching support to her husband’s government. He led a prayer session for the success of the administration. The visitor thanked the Emir for his encouragement to both the President and the state governor, appealing for more of such in future.
Thereafter, she inaugurated the newly constructed Unity Flyover, which Governor Abdulrazaq named after the emir, an honour anchored on his support for the administration, his peaceful reign, his fatherly role in the emirate and beyond, and his support for the socio-economic development of Ilorin.
Along with the ICT Centre built under the RHI at the Kwara State University of Education, Tinubu also inaugurated the ultramodern Intensive Care Unit, Executive Ward, and Gen. Tunde Idiagbon Flyover.
She also inaugurated other iconic projects of the governor such as the Innovation Hub; Visual Arts Centre; and the Garment Factory – all reputed to be the best of their kinds in the country and African sub-region.
Speaking at the inauguration of the ICT Centre, Mrs. Tinubu commended the governor and his wife for building it, expressing belief that youths and women would benefit from it.
She said: “I have been informed that these centres have greatly benefited our youths, especially women and girls, by providing invaluable opportunities for growth and empowerment. I am glad to hear about the success stories and the opportunities these centres afford members of these various communities that have benefitted from this intervention.
“The knowledge of ICT serves as a significant tool to empower communities, especially women, to break traditional barriers and access new opportunities by equipping themselves with ICT skills.
“So far, NITDA has constructed four Community ICT Centres in total. This centre we are commissioning today is the second, while Benue and Oyo centres are ready to be commissioned soon.
“Other Digital Economy Centres have also been fully equipped with computers and other ICT materials in five states, namely Jigawa, Ebonyi, Cross River, Oyo, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory.
“Ten additional Digital Economy Centres in Abia, Edo, Delta, Ondo, Kano, Katsina, Lagos, Nasarawa, Yobe, and Zamfara are also being fully equipped with ICT materials and will be ready for commissioning soon.”
In her remarks, Mrs. AbdulRazaq said the new edifice would speak to the many engagements and partnerships of the First Lady to adequately support Nigerians while pursuing their goals and seeking to improve their means of livelihood.
She, therefore, enjoined the host school and users alike to protect the facility and take full advantage of its services towards developing themselves and promoting positive causes.
“While this milestone will continue to up the status of women, youths and other users of the facility, it is also creating pathways into making Nigeria a digitally empowered nation as well as fostering a technology enabled equitable future for all Nigerians,” she said.
On his part, the governor appreciated President Tinubu and the First Lady for what he called “an impactful initiative.”
He said the ICT project would not just be an investment in infrastructure but also a powerful statement about the essential role of technology in man’s survival and progress in the digital era.
He added: “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.
“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.”
Besides, AbdulRazaq commended the unwavering support of the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, towards realising the set objectives.
At the Innovation Hub, a facility that is designed to be Kwara’s version of the Silicon Valley to raise generations of techies and build skills that resolve local developmental challenges, Tinubu said: “I am so, so glad with what I have seen. This is truly amazing, and I am going back to tell the President what I have seen. You (governor) are a man truly in love with your people. You have really done so well.
“What I have seen here is borne out of a clear dream about where the governor wants his people to be. This dream is coming alive. We can stay here forever. You have enough projects to showcase, and I am indeed very proud of you.”
Tinubu ended her three-day visit to Kwara with a tour of the Garment Factory, another signature project of the governor.
She interacted with workers of the factory, telling them to make the most of the foresight of the governor by working hard.
“What your governor has done is to create opportunities for enterprise and productive engagement of youths and women. I want you to work hard and become successful. I’m here purposely to encourage you to make this a huge success for yourself and for your state,” she said in Yoruba language.
She later gave the hundreds of workers a stipend of N20,000 each.
The state Chairman of the PDP, Babatunde Mohammed, described the naming of some of the edifices after the personalities as good but faulted the governor for acting as if he was the one that built all of them from the scratch, particularly the stadium.
“Credit must go to Innih and such ex-governor Bukola Saraki who carried out major renovations on the edifices and turned them all to modern event centres,” he said.
Besides, he criticised the leaving out of the doyens of Kwaran politics like the late Olusola Saraki, Chief Sunday Olawoyin, and Chief Cornelius Adebayo from the list of those that the projects were named after.
However, the APC chairman in the state, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, said Mohammed was putting up “destructive criticisms against what they could not do when in power for 16 years but which we have successfully done under a period of six years. We still have many other projects under construction. In fact, many of them are nearing completion as we speak. Many deserving Kwarans will still benefit from the naming processes.”
However, a chieftain of the APC in the state, Akogun Iyiola Oyedepo, has criticised the governor for allegedly concentrating projects in the metropolis instead of spreading them across all the senatorial districts in the state.
Oyedepo said: “The visit of the First Lady to Kwara should now be an eye opener to her to observe what some of us had been saying for some years. Our major concern is that projects are being over concentrated in the state capital. We have three senatorial districts in Kwara so how do we develop other districts if this is the way we always want to follow? So certainly, some people are being neglected.”
Another chieftain of the party, Chief Wole Oke, supported some of the views expressed by Oyedepo, describing them as those of the majority of the party members in the state.
He advised the governor to use his remaining years in office to spread development to other areas of the state.
… Governor AbdulRazaq’s Administration Delivers Landmark Infrastructure for Revenue Growth
The Kwara Revenue House, a signature project of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration, is set for completion as installation of glass panels progresses. The ultramodern structure, which began construction in February 2023, is set to redefine Kwara State’s revenue administration and economic efficiency.
Once completed, the Revenue House will be the tallest building in Kwara State, symbolizing the government’s commitment to modernization, transparency, and improved revenue generation. The facility will serve as the central hub for the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KW-IRS), streamlining operations and enhancing financial efficiency.
Funding for the Revenue House was sourced from savings made by eliminating excessive consultancy fees, a practice that had drained government resources in the past. This approach highlights Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to financial prudence, transparency, and patriotism, ensuring that public funds are directed towards projects that benefit the people of Kwara.
According to Shade Omoniyi, Executive Chairman of KW-IRS, the project is a game-changer for tax administration in the state. “This structure is more than just a building; it represents the future of revenue collection in Kwara and a more efficient government system,” she stated.
The Kwara Revenue House is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening tax administration, promoting accountability, and enhancing service delivery. By centralizing revenue-related departments in one location, the facility will optimize tax collection processes and facilitate better coordination within the government.
With its imminent completion, the Revenue House will stand as a landmark infrastructure project, showcasing the progressive vision of Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration. This initiative reinforces Kwara’s reputation as a state embracing modernization and self-sustainability, ensuring stronger economic growth and improved governance.
As the finishing touches are put in place, anticipation continues to grow for the official unveiling of this transformative project, a milestone that will reshape the financial landscape of Kwara for years to come.
… First of Its Kind in Africa, to Enhance Judicial Operations
The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, has unveiled the prototype of a Six-storey Court House Complex currently under construction at Ahmadu Bello Way, Ilorin.
The modern judicial facility will feature eight well-equipped courtrooms, offices, a conference hall, and a library, among other advanced amenities designed to improve the efficiency of the state’s judiciary.
Conceived by Governor AbdulRazaq, the project aligns with his vision to revamp and reposition every sector in the state, as well as the broader objective of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to enhance judicial services across the country.
Speaking at the handing-over event, Babatunde Sofola of Baron Architecture, representing the contractor Craneburg International, assured that the project would be executed according to contract terms and the highest construction standards.
The event was attended by principal officers from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, representatives of the Kwara State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, and officials of Baron Architecture, among others.
In recent years, Kwara State has emerged as a surprising yet promising player in Nigeria’s technology ecosystem. Under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the state has embarked on a transformative journey to harness the power of technology to drive economic growth, create jobs, and position itself as a hub for innovation in Nigeria and beyond.
From building critical tech infrastructure to fostering a culture of digital literacy and entrepreneurship, Kwara is steadily carving out a niche for itself in the global tech landscape. This opinion piece explores the strides made by the state, the initiatives driving its tech revolution, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Kwara State, traditionally known for its agricultural heritage and educational institutions, has long been a quiet contributor to Nigeria’s economy. However, with the advent of the digital age, Governor AbdulRazaq recognized the need to diversify the state’s economy and leverage technology as a catalyst for development. His administration’s vision is clear: to transform Kwara into a knowledge-based economy that thrives on innovation, creativity, and digital skills.
This vision is not just aspirational but grounded in practical steps. The governor’s approach has been multifaceted, focusing on infrastructure development, human capital investment, and partnerships with both public and private sector stakeholders. The result is a burgeoning tech ecosystem that is attracting attention from within Nigeria and beyond.
Building the Infrastructure for a Digital Future
One of the cornerstones of Kwara’s tech transformation is the development of critical infrastructure to support digital innovation. Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has prioritized the creation of tech hubs, innovation centers, and digital economy projects that provide the physical and virtual spaces needed for techpreneurs to thrive.
The Kwara State Innovation Hub
The Kwara State Innovation Hub, located in Ilorin, is a flagship project designed to serve as a breeding ground for tech startups and innovators. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities,
Once launched, the hub will offer co-working spaces, high-speed internet, and access to mentorship and funding opportunities, creating a vibrant ecosystem where ideas can grow into viable businesses. Additionally, the hub plans to host training programs, hackathons, and networking events, fostering a strong tech community in Kwara.
However, Kwara’s growing tech scene faces significant challenges, including limited access to funding and inadequate power supply, which have historically hindered startups from scaling their operations. To address this, iHS Towers is a key partner in supporting the development of the Innovation Hub. In alignment with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision, the hub will be solar-powered, ensuring a sustainable and reliable energy source for innovation-driven activities.
ICT Community Centres
In collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), the state government has established ICT Community Centres across Kwara. These centres are equipped with computers, internet access, and other digital tools to empower residents, particularly women and youth, with essential tech skills.
The recent commissioning of an ICT Community Centre at the Kwara State University of Education by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, underscores the importance of these facilities in bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusivity. Such initiatives are critical in a country where access to technology remains uneven, especially in rural areas.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has also invested in projects aimed at integrating technology into various sectors of the economy. For instance, the Garment Factory, another initiative under his leadership, incorporates digital tools and automation to enhance production efficiency and create jobs. Similarly, the Visual Arts Centre and Sugar Factory Film Studio are leveraging technology to promote creativity and cultural expression, positioning Kwara as a hub for the creative industries.
Investing in Human Capital: The Key to Sustainable Growth
While infrastructure is essential, Governor AbdulRazaq understands that the true engine of a tech-driven economy is human capital. To this end, his administration has placed a strong emphasis on education, skills development, and youth empowerment.
Digital Literacy Programs
Recognizing the importance of digital literacy in the 21st century, the state government has rolled out programs to equip residents with basic and advanced tech skills. These programs target various demographics, including students, women, and unemployed youth, and cover topics such as coding, data analysis, digital marketing, and cybersecurity.
For example, the Kwara State Social Investment Program (KWASSIP) has incorporated tech training into its empowerment initiatives, enabling beneficiaries to leverage digital tools for entrepreneurship and employment. Such efforts are crucial in a country where youth unemployment remains a pressing issue.
Partnerships with Tech Giants and Institutions
To accelerate its tech ambitions, Kwara has forged partnerships with leading tech companies and educational institutions. Collaborations with organizations like NITDA, Microsoft, and Google have provided access to resources, expertise, and funding that would otherwise be out of reach.
Additionally, the state government has worked closely with local universities and polytechnics to integrate tech-focused curricula and research programs. By aligning education with industry needs, Kwara is ensuring that its graduates are equipped with the skills required to thrive in a digital economy.
Support for Startups and Innovators
Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has also created an enabling environment for startups to flourish. Through initiatives like the Kwara State Entrepreneurship Program, young innovators have access to grants, mentorship, and incubation services. The state’s commitment to supporting homegrown talent is evident in the success stories emerging from its tech ecosystem.
For instance, startups like “TechVille,” a Kwara-based software development company, have gained recognition for their innovative solutions in areas such as fintech, agritech, and e-commerce. These success stories not only showcase the potential of Kwara’s tech ecosystem but also inspire other young people to pursue careers in technology.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Kwara’s tech landscape is undoubtedly promising, it is not without challenges. Limited access to funding, inadequate power supply, and the need for more robust internet connectivity are some of the obstacles that must be addressed to sustain the state’s tech revolution. Additionally, there is a need for greater awareness and adoption of technology, particularly in rural areas where digital literacy remains low.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth. By addressing infrastructure gaps and fostering public-private partnerships, Kwara can unlock its full potential as a tech hub. Moreover, the state’s relatively low cost of living and peaceful environment make it an attractive destination for tech investors and entrepreneurs seeking alternatives to more congested cities like Lagos and Abuja.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s efforts to position Kwara on the global tech map are already yielding results. The state’s tech ecosystem is gaining recognition for its innovation and inclusivity, attracting interest from international organizations and investors. For example, Kwara’s participation in global tech events and competitions has showcased the talent and potential of its young innovators.
Furthermore, the state’s focus on sustainable development aligns with global trends in technology, such as the use of digital tools to address climate change, improve healthcare, and enhance education. By leveraging technology to tackle local challenges, Kwara is not only improving the lives of its residents but also contributing to global solutions.
A Model for Other States
Kwara State’s tech transformation under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq serves as a model for other states in Nigeria and beyond. By prioritizing infrastructure, investing in human capital, and fostering a culture of innovation, Kwara is demonstrating that even smaller states can compete on the global tech stage.
As the state continues to build on its achievements, it is essential to maintain momentum and address existing challenges. With the right policies, partnerships, and persistence, Kwara has the potential to become a leading tech hub in Africa, driving economic growth and creating opportunities for its people.
In a world increasingly defined by technology, Kwara’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, leadership, and collaboration. Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to putting Kwara on the global tech map is not just a win for the state but a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s digital future.
… Governor AbdulRazaq’s support restores training opportunities lost for two decades
Kwara State has achieved a major milestone in healthcare development as seven (7) state hospital pharmacy departments have secured accreditation from the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) to operate as internship training centers for graduate pharmacists.
The accreditation follows Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s approval and full support for the Kwara State Hospitals Management Board (KW-HMB) to seek the re-accreditation of pharmacy departments, which had been lost for over 20 years.
Dr. Abdulraheem Malik, the Executive Secretary of KW-HMB, described the process as long and rigorous, involving an inspection of facilities by the PCN accreditation team. He expressed joy over the success, stating that Kwara State can now resume training intern pharmacists from all pharmacy schools in Nigeria.
He emphasized that strict due diligence was followed throughout the process, ensuring all facilities met the necessary preconditions before receiving approval.
“This marks a significant boost for the health sector under the current administration, which will help bridge our manpower gaps,” Dr. Malik said.
He assured residents of the state that the Board will actively monitor all accredited facilities to maintain high standards in healthcare service delivery. He also revealed that efforts are underway to secure accreditation for the training of intern nurses and medical laboratory scientists.
Among the accredited facilities are General Hospital, Patigi; General Hospital, Offa; Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH); and Civil Service Hospital, Ilorin. Others include Aisha Buhari Mother & Child Hospital, Sobi Specialist Hospital, Children’s Specialist Hospital, and the Kwara State Essential Drugs Project.
The Kwara State Geographic Information Services (KWGIS) has reiterated the importance of obtaining proper land use approvals before commencing any development project in the state.
The agency emphasized that securing such approvals is a legal requirement and warned that any failure to comply would result in penalties.
KWGIS Executive Chairman, ESV AbdulKareem Babatunde Sulyman, in a statement on Saturday, stressed that the agency has been conducting public awareness campaigns on radio to educate residents on the necessity of obtaining approvals before starting any construction.
“This is a basic requirement. Where individuals or even government agencies overlook or neglect these legal provisions, we have a duty not only to halt such developments but also to impose appropriate fines,” he said.
Sulyman cited The Pavilion, a project under the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, as an example of a construction site that has not yet obtained the necessary approvals. He explained that all government projects—whether local, state, or federal—must secure these approvals before work begins.
“The Pavilion is a new construction, and appropriate approvals ought to have been sought before any work commenced. Since this has not been done, we have directed workers on site to comply with the necessary requirements before resuming work,” he stated.
The KWGIS chairman further noted that enforcing development control is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with urban planning regulations. He warned that the agency would not hesitate to take action against any illegal construction activities.
“At the moment, Peace Pharmaceutical along Asa Dam Bypass and HRA along Lubcon Road were carrying out large-scale construction without the required approvals. Both projects have been sealed off, and the developers have been directed to meet the legal requirements before continuing work,” he added.
KWGIS assured residents that its enforcement measures are in place to protect lives and property, ensuring that all developments in the state adhere to the necessary safety and regulatory standards.
… Governor gets commendation for continued support
#KwaraRising
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved the recruitment of more staff to improve the quality of education and enhance security in public schools across the state. The Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) announced that the recruitment will focus on senior secondary schools, particularly in rural areas where there is a shortage of teachers.
TESCOM Chairman, Mallam Bello Tauheed Abubakar, stated that all applications must be submitted online, and only candidates who meet the required qualifications will be considered. Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education, a Bachelor of Science or Arts degree with a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, or a National Certificate in Education. Those who do not meet these requirements will not be invited for the test.
To ensure fairness and transparency, applicants must provide proof of their local government of origin and residence at different stages of the process. The recruitment process will include a Computer-Based Test, after which shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and peer teaching (practicum) at designated centers. The cutoff mark for the test will be determined after its completion.
In line with the state government’s commitment to combating drug abuse, all shortlisted applicants will undergo a mandatory drug test. This measure is aimed at ensuring that only individuals who meet high ethical and professional standards are employed in the education sector. The government has also set a maximum age limit of 35 years as of January 31, 2025, for applicants. Candidates whose behavior does not align with the expectations of a teacher and mentor will be disqualified at any stage of the process.
TESCOM has commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his continuous investment in education and his commitment to strengthening the public school system. The commission emphasized that this recruitment is another step toward improving learning outcomes and addressing the human resource gap in schools.
The application portal will be open from February 5 to February 14, 2025, at www.tescom.kwarastate.gov
… Ends Tour with Focus on Productive Enterprise, HIV Elimination Campaign, and N350m Film Factory Support
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday concluded her three-day working visit to Kwara State with a tour of the Garment Factory, a flagship project of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the largest facility of its kind in Nigeria.
The visit underscored the governor’s commitment to youth empowerment and economic development, as the First Lady encouraged workers to maximize the opportunities created by the state government.
“What your Governor has done is to create opportunities for enterprise and productive engagement of youths and women. I want you to work hard and become successful.
I’m here purposely to encourage you to make this a huge success for yourself and for your state,” Senator Tinubu told the workers in Yoruba. She also gifted each worker N20,000 as a token for their lunch, eliciting cheers and gratitude from the beneficiaries.
The Garment Factory, which employs hundreds of young people and women, is a key component of Governor AbdulRazaq’s strategy to reduce unemployment and foster economic growth through industrialization.
The facility produces uniforms, school kits, and other textile products, serving both local and international markets.
HIV Elimination Campaign Launch
Earlier in the day, Senator Tinubu launched the “Free to Shine” campaign, an initiative of the Organization of African First Ladies (OAFLAD) aimed at eliminating new HIV infections among women and children.
The campaign also seeks to ensure that children born with HIV receive adequate treatment and support.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady highlighted Nigeria’s high burden of HIV infections, particularly among women and youth, and called for concerted efforts to address the challenge. “To complement the Free to Shine campaign, I have also decided to advocate for the triple elimination of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis. This campaign will be held across the six geopolitical zones of the nation,” she said.
Governor AbdulRazaq commended the First Lady for her leadership in the fight against HIV and pledged the support of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to raise awareness and mobilize resources for the cause.
“We must act swiftly to minimize the impact of global policy shifts on millions of Africans living with HIV,” he said.
N350 Million Boost for Sugar Factory Film Studio
The First Lady’s visit also highlighted her N350 million donation to support the production of a culturally inspired movie at the Sugar Factory Film Studio, another landmark project of the AbdulRazaq administration. The film, which will showcase Kwara’s rich cultural heritage, is expected to elevate the state’s profile in Nigeria’s creative industry.
Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude for the First Lady’s generosity, describing it as a testament to her commitment to Kwara’s development. “Her support for the Sugar Factory Film Studio reflects her passion for preserving our cultural values and promoting our creative talents,” he said.
A Transformative Three-Day Visit
Senator Tinubu’s visit, which began on Tuesday, featured the commissioning of several iconic projects, including the General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, the Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover, and an ultramodern Intensive Care Unit (ICU). She also performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital and toured the Ilorin Innovation Hub, a tech facility attracting partnerships from global organizations like IHS Towers and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The First Lady’s itinerary also included a state dinner at the remodeled Flower Garden, a symbolic representation of Governor AbdulRazaq’s efforts to revitalize public spaces.
Health Minister, WHO, UNICEF Pledge Support
At the Free to Shine campaign launch, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, revealed that 1.5 million Nigerians living with HIV are currently receiving treatment, a significant improvement from previous years. He reiterated the federal government’s commitment to eliminating HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis through comprehensive prevention, testing, and treatment services.
World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, and UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, praised Nigeria’s dedication to HIV elimination and pledged continued support for the campaign.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Development
As Senator Tinubu departed Kwara State, her visit left a lasting impression of Governor AbdulRazaq’s transformative leadership. From infrastructure and healthcare to youth empowerment and cultural preservation, the state is breaking new grounds in development, setting a benchmark for others to follow.
