…Describes appointment as another federal honour for Kwara, reaffirms support for Renewed Hope Agenda
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Sunday Fagbemi, as Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi, Niger State.
Describing the appointment as a “beautiful addition” to the growing list of federal recognitions for Kwara, Governor AbdulRazaq said the development reflects the President’s deep appreciation for loyal party members, leaders, and the people of the state.
“This appointment is yet another honour to Kwara State, and it speaks volumes of Mr. President’s recognition of our contributions to the APC and the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the Governor said.
He expressed confidence in Prince Fagbemi’s capacity to deliver on the new national assignment, noting his track record as a loyal, principled, and exemplary party administrator.
Governor AbdulRazaq also reassured President Tinubu of the unwavering support of the people of Kwara State for his administration and vision for a better Nigeria.
… Omu Aran- Oro Ago road, Esie Arandun roads 90% completed: Olododo
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In a renewed drive to enhance connectivity and economic viability across rural and semi-urban areas, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has flagged off the construction of the long-anticipated Agbamu–Ila Orangun Road, further cementing his administration’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure development across the state.
The state’s Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, announced the commencement of the project on Tuesday during an inspection tour of ongoing road constructions across the Kwara South Senatorial District.
“For the first time in decades, our people are feeling the real impact of governance through these road projects. Governor AbdulRazaq is deliberately building a state that is economically viable by unlocking rural communities through infrastructure,” Olododo said.
Among the major projects inspected were the newly approved Agbamu–Ila Orangun Kwara/Osun boundary road awarded to CPN Construction Company Ltd; Sabaja–Oba Isin–Owa Onire Road handled by Fik Construction and Engineering Ltd; Palace Road, Ijagbo and Fagbemi Road in Oyun Local Government, awarded to Ultimate Construction Company; and the Ibrahim Taiwo Road/Popo Road in Offa, now 95% completed by Craneburg Construction Company.
Olododo also confirmed the completion of the Omu Aran–Oro Ago road and noted that the Esie–Arandun road stands at 90% completion. He further disclosed plans to begin phased rehabilitation of the Igbaja–Oke Ode road to improve accessibility and ease of travel within the region.
During a stop in Agbamu, the commissioner paid homage to the Arigbamu of Agbamu Kingdom, Oba Samuel Olaniyi Dare, who praised the administration for approving a road project the community had been clamoring for since 1993.
“We have dreamt of this road since 1993. What Governor AbdulRazaq has done is nothing short of trailblazing. We are grateful and stand fully in support of this administration,” the monarch said.
The Chairman of the Agbamu Development Union, Commandant Kayode Oyinloye, echoed similar sentiments, noting the visible impact of the AbdulRazaq-led administration in the area while appealing for more government interventions to address other pressing needs.
Olododo also paid a condolence visit to the Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, over the recent passing of his mother, Alhaja Hawawu Awele Gbadamosi. He described the late matriarch as a woman of exceptional warmth and service to humanity.
The Commissioner was accompanied on the tour by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Infrastructure, Engr. Mudashirua Yusuf Oladimeji, and the Director of Civil Engineering at the Ministry of Works, Engr. Akanbi Moshood.
…State to pilot 100 CNG-powered tricycles in partnership with Innoson, warns against transport law violations
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The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a safer and more efficient transport system that will support economic growth and ease of movement across the state. Speaking during a live radio programme “Oju-Oba’nle” on Diamond FM, Ilorin, the Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Lafia Aliyu Korasabi, said the creation of a standalone Ministry of Transportation signals a new phase in the state’s drive toward an integrated and sustainable mobility framework.
Hon. Korasabi revealed that the administration of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has developed a practical roadmap to overhaul the current system. A key part of this reform includes a partnership with Innoson Automobile Company for the procurement of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered tricycles as a pilot project. The initiative, according to him, is part of broader plans to introduce both CNG and electric tricycles into the system—targeted at cutting fuel costs, lowering vehicle maintenance expenses, and reducing environmental pollution.
The Commissioner stated that designated parks and routes would be created for these tricycles upon delivery, as the state gears up to align its transport sector with global best practices. He also commended the Ministry of Works for its structural inputs in ongoing road designs to guarantee durability and long-term service.
Korasabi further issued a stern warning to individuals and transport operators engaging in illegal roadside parking, unapproved garages, or trading on walkways, noting that violators will face the full weight of the law. He urged residents, traders, and transport unions to support the state’s initiatives and embrace the new opportunities the reformed system will bring.
…Commissioner visits Fasola, Oyo to understudy model farm as part of broader livestock development agenda
To boost livestock development in Kwara State, the state government is set to partner with Milki Barn Agroserv Limited to establish a fully functional dairy farm within its territory. This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Hon. Oloruntoyosi Thomas-Adebayo, during a working visit to Milk Barn Farm in Fasola, Oyo State over the weekend.
The visit, which also included the Director of Livestock at the Ministry, Alhaji Muhammed Ahmed Umar, aimed to study the operational model of Milki Barn’s dairy section in preparation for replicating a similar initiative in Kwara. Hon. Thomas-Adebayo explained that the move is part of the state government’s broader effort to lay a solid foundation for the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development and to enhance the state’s livestock value chain, with particular focus on cattle fattening, beef production, and dairy processing.
She emphasized Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to unlocking the hidden potential of the livestock sector and creating opportunities for farmers, herders, processors, and distributors. According to the Commissioner, the present administration is intentional about opening up new economic opportunities that will improve livelihoods and drive sustainable agricultural growth.
In his remarks, Founder and CEO of Milki Barn Agroserv Limited, Mr. Tony Jibunoh, who conducted the team around the facility, expressed willingness to collaborate with the Kwara State Government in actualizing its vision for livestock development.
…Intervention aims to boost rural healthcare delivery, encourage community use, and promote safer health practices
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In a determined push to strengthen primary healthcare delivery in rural communities, the Kwara State Government has donated essential medical equipment worth millions of naira to the Primary Health Centre in Otte-Oja, Asa Local Government Area.
At the official handover ceremony, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, encouraged residents to take full advantage of the improved facility. She emphasized that consistent community use and engagement with the health centre would further motivate the government to deploy more equipment and healthcare personnel. “Whatever we have been given must be put to judicious use. These medical items are meant to serve the people. While government is doing its part, individuals must also play theirs. Avoid self-medication and take advantage of the available interventions,” she said.
Dr. El-Imam also called on the community to ensure the safety and maintenance of the newly supplied equipment, urging collective responsibility for sustainability.
The Chairman of Asa Local Government, Alhaji Shehu Yahyah, praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering commitment to rural healthcare development. He described the intervention as a testament to the Governor’s dedication to inclusive governance and improved quality of life in underserved communities.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (KWSUBEB), Professor Shehu Adaramaja, reaffirmed the community’s support for the administration, highlighting the positive changes brought about by the government’s sustained investment in Asa Local Government.
The donated equipment includes laboratory apparatus, immunization tools, oxygen machines, examination couches, drip stands, digital and manual blood pressure monitors, Littmann stethoscopes, stretchers, bedding items, and other critical supplies needed for effective service delivery.
This effort is part of the broader health sector reforms in Kwara State aimed at revamping primary healthcare centers across all local governments and ensuring that even remote areas have access to quality medical care.
…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.
