…Commercial motorcycles, tricycles, and heavy-duty trucks barred from major route as part of ongoing traffic enforcement
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The Kwara State Road Traffic Management Authority (KWARTMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the restriction of certain categories of vehicles from using Ahmadu Bello Way in Ilorin, as part of ongoing efforts to improve public order and ensure road safety in the state capital.
The enforcement, which affects commercial tricycles, motorcycles, and heavy-duty trucks, is in line with the Authority’s earlier directive aimed at decongesting one of the city’s busiest routes. In a statement released from the office of the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Bamidele Michael, KWARTMA clarified that while these categories of vehicles are restricted from accessing or crossing through Ahmadu Bello Way, they are permitted to operate within adjoining feeder roads such as Yoruba Road, Civil Service Road, Alimi Road, Jani Ibrahim Close, Nigerian Correctional Service Road, Saadu Alanamu Road, NYSC/Public Complaints Road, Lajorin/High Court Road, and Sulu-Gambari Road.
Engr. Bamidele warned that defaulters who flout the restriction will face appropriate sanctions. He stressed that the policy forms part of KWARTMA’s broader initiative to restore order and promote safe, responsible use of public roads across the state. He also appealed for the cooperation of all road users, stakeholders, and transport operators to help maintain sanity along Ahmadu Bello Way and other critical corridors in Kwara State.
…Governor AbdulRazaq praised for non-interference, commitment to quality education
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One-thousand-eight-hundred (1,800) applicants have been shortlisted for teaching appointments at the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), following a rigorous and transparent selection process. The shortlisted applicants emerged from a thorough screening exercise that included online applications, computer-based tests, and oral interviews spanning a period of three months. The process was conducted in line with global best practices to ensure that only the most qualified and competent individuals are selected.
According to a statement issued by the Commission, the successful candidates are to be deployed across senior secondary schools in the 16 local government areas of the state, based on a comprehensive needs assessment. Of the total number, 790 candidates representing 44% were selected to teach STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects; 581 were shortlisted for core subjects; 370 for specialized areas; and 59 for technical subjects. The TESCOM portal has been updated for applicants to check their status.
As part of the final stages of the recruitment process, all shortlisted applicants will undergo a mandatory drug test, to be conducted by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). This measure, coordinated by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Abuse, Prevention and Control, Hon. Mukail Olamilekan Aileru, is to ensure that only candidates with sound mental and physical health are entrusted with the education of school children. The drug test is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, April 9, and end on Saturday, April 12, 2025. The Kwara State Government has fully covered the cost of the test.
The NDLEA will forward the drug test results directly to the Commission to maintain the integrity of the process and guard against any form of tampering or forgery. In addition, shortlisted candidates are required to present medical certificates from a state-owned hospital, submit original copies of their credentials for verification, and hand in photocopies for documentation. They will also submit handwritten letters of acceptance of the job offer and sign a six-year bond not to seek transfers, especially from rural postings, as part of a strategic effort to address the shortage of teachers in underserved areas.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, has been commended for his insistence on a merit-based, transparent process free of political interference. The Commission noted that his leadership has once again set a new standard in public service recruitment, restoring trust in government and proving that competence and character remain the key criteria in public appointments. This policy direction, the statement added, reinforces the Governor’s commitment to building a quality and inclusive education system in the state.
The Commission encouraged successful applicants to begin their documentation in line with their scheduled drug test dates at the TESCOM headquarters in Ilorin. It also acknowledged the participation of indigenes, non-indigenes, and 31 persons living with disabilities (PLWDs), all of whom made the shortlist on merit.
… Gov AbdulRazaq Hails Appointment, Commends President for Honouring Kwara
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a sweeping reconstitution of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited board, appointing Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) and Ahmadu Musa Kida as the Non-Executive Chairman. This restructuring, effective April 2, 2025, aims to enhance operational efficiency, restore investor confidence, and advance Nigeria’s energy sector.
Engr. Ojulari, a distinguished engineer from Kwara State, brings decades of experience in the oil and gas industry. Prior to his appointment, he was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company. Under his leadership, Renaissance spearheaded the landmark $2.4 billion acquisition of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), a deal that reshaped the country’s oil sector.
A graduate of Mechanical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Ojulari began his career as the first Nigerian process engineer at Elf Aquitaine before joining Shell Petroleum Development Company in 1991. Over the years, he held various strategic positions in Nigeria, Europe, and the Middle East, serving as a petroleum process and production engineer, strategic planner, field developer, and asset manager. In 2015, he became the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO).
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State hailed the appointment of Engr. Ojulari as a remarkable honour for the state, expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing the contributions of Kwarans to national development.
“On behalf of the people and government of Kwara State, I express our profound appreciation to Mr. President for these A-list appointments. We are very proud to be an integral part of the President’s team,” the Governor stated.
“Our prayers, best wishes, and support are with Engr. Ojulari and the new NNPC leadership. With his vast experience and the backing of stakeholders, we are confident that he will take the oil sector to greater heights. We pray that his tenure records unprecedented success in driving investment, increasing oil and gas production, and ensuring a stronger NNPC.”
President Tinubu has tasked the new board with executing an ambitious energy agenda, including a strategic review of NNPC-operated and Joint Venture assets to maximize value. His administration is targeting $30 billion in new oil sector investments by 2027 and $60 billion by 2030, while aiming to boost crude oil production to 2 million barrels per day by 2027 and 3 million barrels per day by 2030. Similarly, gas production is set to increase to 8 billion cubic feet per day by 2027 and 10 billion cubic feet per day by 2030.
Additionally, NNPC’s refining capacity is expected to grow, with the goal of increasing its share of crude oil refining output to 200,000 barrels per day by 2027 and 500,000 barrels per day by 2030.
President Tinubu thanked the outgoing NNPC leadership, including former Group CEO Mallam Mele Kyari and Chairman Chief Pius Akinyelure, for their service, particularly their efforts in reviving the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries. He wished them success in their future endeavours.
With Engr. Ojulari now at the helm of NNPC, stakeholders anticipate a new era of innovation, investment, and progress in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
In a bid to provide a dedicated platform for young people to engage in thought-provoking discussions, share ideas, and express their perspectives on issues that shape their lives, Flow FM 92.7 has announced the launch of its newest radio show, NextGen. Set to debut on Saturday, April 5th, 2025, at 11 AM, NextGen will be a dynamic and engaging program designed to empower youth voices and bring fresh conversations to the airwaves. The show will be hosted by Brenda Vinning, a passionate communicator committed to fostering meaningful discourse.
With a mission to give young people a space where their ideas, challenges, and aspirations are heard and taken seriously, NextGen is poised to become a hub for insightful conversations on diverse topics, including technology, career development, education, entrepreneurship, social issues, culture, entertainment, and the latest trends shaping the world. Unlike conventional radio programs that often dictate the narrative, NextGen will be highly interactive, allowing listeners to shape discussions, ask questions, and share their thoughts in real time.
The radio show will embrace an unfiltered, no-holds-barred approach, ensuring that conversations remain authentic, raw, and impactful. Rather than presenting polished and overly scripted discussions, the program will delve into real-life stories, experiences, and pressing concerns that resonate with young people in Nigeria and beyond. The goal is to spark engaging debates, challenge conventional thinking, and inspire actionable change among listeners.
Brenda Vinning, the host of the show, expressed her excitement about the project, emphasizing the need for a dedicated youth-driven platform that allows for open dialogue and deep engagement. “NextGen is more than just a radio show; it is a movement for young voices to be heard, a space where we can have real conversations about the things that matter most to us. We’re not just talking; we’re making an impact,” she said.
Listeners will have the opportunity to participate in the show by calling in or sending messages via WhatsApp at 0807-777-9927. In addition, those with inspiring stories or unique perspectives will have the chance to be featured as guests, further reinforcing the show’s commitment to inclusivity and diverse representation.
Flow FM 92.7 recognizes the critical role of young people in shaping the future and is committed to providing a platform that reflects their voices, challenges, and aspirations. With Nigeria’s youth making significant strides in various fields, NextGen aims to amplify their contributions while fostering informed, constructive, and solution-driven conversations.
The show’s launch marks an exciting milestone for Flow FM 92.7 as it continues to evolve its programming to reflect the dynamic and ever-changing media landscape. By catering to young audiences and addressing topics that resonate with them, the station is reaffirming its commitment to progressive and impactful broadcasting.
Listeners are encouraged to tune in every Saturday at 11 AM on Flow FM 92.7 to be part of the conversation, gain insights from thought leaders and peers, and contribute to discussions that matter. Follow @flowfm927 on social media for updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.
… Stakeholders meet to strategize on boosting financial independence in Kwara’s higher institutions
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As part of its strategic efforts to enhance the financial sustainability of tertiary institutions in Kwara State, the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) recently convened a stakeholders’ meeting focused on improving financial transactions and boosting revenue generation within these institutions.
The meeting, held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, brought together bursars from all state-owned tertiary institutions to discuss alternative revenue strategies and self-sufficiency measures.
Declaring the meeting open, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering commitment to advancing education in the state.
She highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the Governor, including the approval and release of funds for accreditation processes, clearance of outstanding staff salaries, and ongoing financial support through bailout funds for tertiary institutions.
“These efforts have collectively fostered significant progress and academic stability across the state’s higher education sector,” she stated.
According to her, “The government cannot remain passive while students are out of school. That is why we continually invest in education.” She urged the institutions to complement the government’s efforts by working towards financial self-sustainability, stressing the importance of financial independence in fulfilling their obligations.
In her remarks, the Executive Chairman of KWIRS, Mrs. Shade Omoniyi, outlined the objectives of the meeting, which included advising institutions on alternative revenue generation strategies, promoting self-sufficiency, and fostering collaborations to enhance overall revenue growth. She emphasized that these efforts align with Governor AbdulRazaq’s broader vision for educational excellence in Kwara State.
“This collaborative initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the financial frameworks of the state’s tertiary institutions, ensuring their sustainability and continued contributions to the educational development of Kwara,” Mrs. Omoniyi stated.
The meeting saw active participation from bursars representing various institutions across the state, including: Kwara State University, Malete; Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin; Kwara State College of Nursing Science, Ilorin; Kwara State College of Nursing Science, Oke-Ode; and Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin.
Others present were representatives from Kwara State College of Education, Oro; Kwara State College of Education (Technical), Lafiagi; Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa; International Vocational, Technical, and Entrepreneurship College, Ajase-Ipo; Kwara State Aviation College, Ilorin; and Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies, Ilorin.
For far too long, the healthcare sector in Kwara State suffered from the neglect and mismanagement of past administrations. Up until the most recent tenure, the state’s medical training system was left to rot. Facilities deteriorated, accreditation was lost, and young people who aspired to become healthcare professionals were left stranded. It was a damning legacy of abandonment that forced many Kwarans to seek training opportunities elsewhere, draining the state of potential and talent.
That dark era has finally ended.
Under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Kwara State has reclaimed its place as a serious player in the healthcare sector. The recent approval by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to allow Sobi Specialist Hospital, Ilorin, and General Hospital, Offa, to train nursing interns is nothing short of a landmark achievement. For the first time, Kwara will be able to groom its own nurses rather than watching them leave for other states in search of training opportunities. This is not just about infrastructure; this is about restoring dignity to a profession that had been disregarded by previous administrations.
A Legacy of Neglect
Let’s be clear: the decay did not happen overnight. The previous political leaders had nearly two decades to build a robust healthcare training system, but they failed spectacularly. Instead of investing in critical manpower development, they focused on politics of patronage, leaving the healthcare sector in shambles. Nursing schools struggled for accreditation, hospitals lacked the personnel to provide quality care, and patients bore the brunt of a failed system.
The absence of proper training institutions meant that Kwara had to rely heavily on importing medical personnel from other states. The result? A fragile, unsustainable system that left communities vulnerable. It was an avoidable crisis, but past leaders simply didn’t care enough to fix it.
A New Dawn Under AbdulRazaq
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration has rewritten the script. Unlike his predecessors, he recognizes that investing in healthcare is not just about building hospitals—it’s about ensuring those hospitals are staffed with well-trained professionals.
His administration’s efforts in securing accreditation for the training of both pharmacy and nursing interns speak volumes. For the first time, Kwara’s young, aspiring nurses have a homegrown path to professional excellence. This means better healthcare services, reduced brain drain, and greater employment opportunities within the state.
And it doesn’t stop at nursing. Governor AbdulRazaq has prioritized the overall revitalization of the health sector, from equipping hospitals to improving staff welfare. The government has been intentional about fixing dilapidated health centers, upgrading medical equipment, and recruiting more healthcare workers. This is governance that works. This is leadership that cares.
What This Means for Kwara’s Future
The implications of this achievement cannot be overstated. With an expanded capacity to train nurses and other medical professionals, Kwara is positioning itself as a healthcare hub in Nigeria. In the coming years, we can expect:
● Improved healthcare delivery: More trained nurses mean better patient care across the state.
● Job creation: Young people who previously had to leave for other states can now build their careers right here at home.
● Economic growth: A well-functioning healthcare sector attracts investment and boosts the local economy.
● A healthier population: With better-trained personnel, health outcomes will improve, saving lives and reducing preventable deaths.
The Future is Bright
Governor AbdulRazaq is proving, time and again, that good governance is about making real changes that impact lives. The accreditation of Kwara’s hospitals for nursing internships is not just another policy move; it is a bold step toward securing the state’s future.
Kwara’s healthcare sector is on the rise, and for the first time in decades, we can say with confidence that the future looks promising. The failures of the past are being corrected, and under AbdulRazaq’s leadership, Kwara is finally getting the healthcare system it deserves.
…Emir prays for Gov AbdulRazaq, commends administration’s strides
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The Kwara State Government has called on Muslims to uphold the values of unity, peace, and kindness as they celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, urging them to continue praying for the progress of the state and the nation.
Speaking after the Eid prayers at the Ilorin Central Praying Ground, the leader of the government delegation and Majority Leader of the Kwara House of Assembly, Hon. Abdulkadir Oba Magaji, emphasized the importance of sustaining the virtues of Ramadan.
. “We urge all Kwarans and Nigerians to imbibe the lessons of Ramadan. We should be our brothers’ keepers, be peaceful in our conduct, and pray for the stability of Kwara State and Nigeria at large,” he said.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who traditionally leads the state delegation, was absent as he is currently in Saudi Arabia performing the Lesser Hajj.
Magaji also reaffirmed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor AbdulRazaq, expressing confidence in their leadership.
The Eid prayers were led by the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Solihu, and attended by the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Council, Mai-Martaba Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, alongside top government officials and community leaders.
The Emir congratulated the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan and commended the administration’s commitment to peace and development.
He also prayed for Governor AbdulRazaq’s safe return from the holy land, while APC chieftain Alhaji Yahya Seriki urged continued support for the present administration to sustain its achievements.
… Governor AbdulRazaq hails appointment, thanks President Tinubu
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President Bola Tinubu has appointed Dr. Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe as the Chairman of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) for an initial term of four years. The appointment, which took effect on March 11, 2025, is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s health insurance system and improve access to affordable healthcare.
Dr. Oloriegbe, a former Senator representing Kwara Central in the 9th Senate, is a seasoned medical professional with vast experience in healthcare policy and administration. He previously served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and the Joint National Assembly Committee on Health, playing a key role in advancing health sector reforms.
A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, with a degree in Medicine and Surgery, Oloriegbe also holds a Master’s in Coaching and Consultation from the University of Oxford, UK, and HEC, Paris. He is a member of various professional bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the International Aids Society (IAS), and the Africa Health Leadership and Management Network.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has commended the appointment, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of Oloriegbe’s passion for the health sector and his track record of excellence. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the honor done to the people of Kwara State and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The appointment perfectly fits Senator Oloriegbe, given his background as a medical professional, his achievements in the health sector, and his dedication to improving healthcare services,” the Governor said.
Governor AbdulRazaq expressed confidence that Oloriegbe will bring his wealth of experience, network, and goodwill to strengthen the NHIA and make it more beneficial to Nigerians. He also prayed for the Senator’s success in his new role and urged all stakeholders in the healthcare sector to support him.
…Kwara Governor calls for unity, generosity, and sustained devotion beyond Ramadan
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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has extended his warm felicitations to the Muslim community on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr 1446 AH, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the Governor prayed for Allah’s blessings upon all fasting believers and urged them to uphold the values of Ramadan beyond the period of fasting.
Governor AbdulRazaq also joined the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the entire Muslim Ummah in expressing gratitude to Allah for witnessing another Eid celebration.
“As we bid farewell to the honored month of Ramadan, I urge our brethren to remain steadfast in worship, continue giving alms to the poor, and uphold the moral virtues that define us as believers and responsible members of society,” he said.
The Governor emphasized the need for moderation in celebrations, fostering community spirit, and sharing with the less privileged, stressing that the values of compassion and generosity should remain guiding principles.
“We ask Allah to accept our prayers, purify our deeds, bless our families, state, and country, and grant us the grace to observe many more Ramadan fasts in good health,” he added.
The Governor concluded by calling on Kwarans to continue supporting one another, particularly the vulnerable, in the spirit of unity and shared humanity.
…Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq: Powering Healthcare Advancements for a Stronger Kwara
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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.
