Kwara Rising

Category: News

  • Kwara Moves to Establish Aerospace University in Ilorin

    Kwara Moves to Establish Aerospace University in Ilorin

    …State government, federal aviation team assess conversion of Aviation College

    The Kwara State Government has taken a significant step toward establishing an Aerospace University in Ilorin, as a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Aviation visited the state to assess the proposed conversion of the International Aviation College.

    The delegation, led by Mallam Lawal Ibrahim, met with officials of the state government at the Ministry of Tertiary Education in Ilorin. Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Dr. Mary Arinde, welcomed the team and reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing education, particularly in specialized fields that contribute to national development.

    “This proposed conversion of the International Aviation College, Ilorin, into a full-fledged Aerospace University is a bold step toward positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global aviation and aerospace industry,” Dr. Arinde stated.

    She emphasized that the Aviation College has built a strong reputation for training world-class pilots and aviation professionals. She assured the visiting panel of the state’s full support in ensuring a seamless transition to a university.

    Mallam Ibrahim commended the Kwara State Government for its vision, noting that the project is a product of the synergy between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

    “The Governor has demonstrated keen interest in making this a reality. We will conduct a fair and thorough assessment, keeping in mind the leadership’s dedication to educational development,” he said.

    The Rector of the Aviation College, Captain Okatahi Yakubu, also expressed appreciation to the delegation and Governor AbdulRazaq for his foresight in pushing for the upgrade.

    The initiative is expected to enhance aviation education in Nigeria, create more opportunities for students, and position Kwara as a hub for aerospace research and development.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Approves 2023 Promotion Letters for Civil Servants

    Governor AbdulRazaq Approves 2023 Promotion Letters for Civil Servants

    …Over 2,000 civil servants benefit as government prioritizes workers’ welfare

    In a move that reinforces his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and career progression, the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has approved the release of promotion letters to civil servants who passed the 2023 promotion examination.

    The Permanent Secretary of the State Civil Service Commission, Hajia Kifayat Jimoh, made this announcement in Ilorin on Thursday, March 6, 2025. According to her, a total of 2,094 civil servants were successful out of the 2,122 candidates who sat for the promotion examination.

    Hajia Jimoh praised Governor AbdulRazaq for his continued dedication to the civil service and described the prompt approval of the promotion as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to ensuring that hardworking employees are duly rewarded. She urged the promoted officers to see their new ranks as a call to greater responsibility and to remain dedicated to serving the people of Kwara State.

    Governor AbdulRazaq has consistently prioritized the well-being of civil servants since assuming office. His administration has implemented policies aimed at enhancing productivity, ensuring prompt payment of salaries, clearing backlogs of unpaid wages from previous administrations, and improving working conditions across ministries, departments, and agencies.

    The latest promotion exercise is part of a broader effort to boost morale within the civil service and ensure that diligent workers are recognized and rewarded. By approving these promotions without delay, the government aims to sustain an efficient and motivated workforce capable of delivering quality service to the people of Kwara State.

    Promoted Civil Servants Urged to Rededicate Themselves
    With the issuance of the 2023 promotion letters, the Kwara State Civil Service Commission has called on the newly promoted officers to see their elevation as an opportunity to contribute more effectively to governance and service delivery.

    Hajia Jimoh emphasized that promotions in the civil service come with added responsibilities, and she encouraged the beneficiaries to justify the confidence reposed in them by the government. She also reiterated that the commission remains committed to a fair and transparent promotion process that rewards merit and dedication.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kwara Governor Launches Multimillion-Naira Educational Materials, Sports Kits to Boost Basic Education

    Kwara Governor Launches Multimillion-Naira Educational Materials, Sports Kits to Boost Basic Education

    …73,365 Textbooks, 3,931 Sports Equipment Distributed to Tackle Out-of-School Crisis, Ease Parental Burden

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday flagged off the distribution of instructional materials and sports kits worth millions of naira to primary and junior secondary schools across Kwara State, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to eradicate the out-of-school children menace and elevate educational standards.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, the Governor underscored the intervention as part of broader efforts to lessen the financial burden on parents amid rising costs and to ensure equitable access to quality education.

    Key Items Distributed:

    73,365 textbooks (English, Mathematics, Computer Studies, etc.)

    12,780 assorted primary school libraries

    100 special education materials

    260 sets of Early Childhood Care (ECCDE) furniture

    3,931 sports equipment

    344 agricultural toolkits

    78 Maga Tab X tablets

    “This initiative aligns with our vision to bridge educational gaps and prioritize basic education,” the Governor stated. He highlighted ongoing reforms, including teacher recruitment, timely promotions, and infrastructure upgrades, as critical to transforming the sector.

    Kwara House Committee on Education Chairman, Hon. Muhammed Boriya Salihu, hailed the event as “historic,” noting that the state has moved beyond past neglect in education. “These interventions are filling critical gaps and setting a new trajectory for development,” he said.

    Prof. Sheu Raheem Adaramaja, Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), emphasized the materials’ role in fostering holistic child development. “These resources will elevate academic and sports standards, empowering pupils to become future leaders,” he said.

    The event drew top government officials, including Senior Adviser Alhaji Saadu Salau; Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Aliyu Kora Sabi; Permanent Secretary for Education Mrs. Bake Olarewaju; and APC Chieftain Alhaji Raheem Adedoyin. Also present were representatives from UBEC, sports bodies, traditional institutions, and school administrators.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Kwara Govt Trains Livestock Farmers on Fodder Production, Value Addition

    Kwara Govt Trains Livestock Farmers on Fodder Production, Value Addition

    … Initiative Capable of Addressing Farmers/Herders’ Clashes

    The Kwara State Government has successfully concluded a five-day training program aimed at equipping 100 livestock farmers and value chain actors with skills in commercial fodder production and value addition.

    The capacity-building initiative, organized under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES)—a World Bank-assisted program—was facilitated by the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, Bayero University Kano (BUK) in collaboration with S G Imperial Concept Limited. The training took place at the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI), Kabba-Owode, Ifelodun LGA, Kwara State.

    At the closing ceremony, State Project Coordinator, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, represented by Project Extension Officer, Mr. Nureni AbdulRasaq, emphasized the program’s potential to enhance food security, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and mitigate farmers/herders’ conflicts by providing a sustainable alternative for livestock feeding.

    “Fodder production addresses the competition between humans and animals for food. By training farmers to engage in fodder production, we create employment, reduce farmer-herder conflicts, and ensure pastoralists have a steady feed source for their livestock,” he explained.
    Dr. Akeem Ajeigbe, the lead facilitator from CDA, projected that with Nigeria’s population expected to hit 300 million in the next 25 years, the country must mechanize, intensify, and commercialize agriculture to ensure food security. He highlighted that the participants were trained in both theoretical and practical aspects of fodder production, including processing crop residues and forest trees into livestock feed.

    One of the beneficiaries, Mallam Abdulraheem Yahaya Onikpe, a retired federal civil servant, described the training as highly beneficial, enabling farmers to feed their livestock at a lower cost. He expressed gratitude to the Kwara State Government and its partners for investing in the future of livestock farming.

  • Kwara Government Begins Compensation for Land Acquisition in Industrial Park Expansion

    Kwara Government Begins Compensation for Land Acquisition in Industrial Park Expansion

    …Governor AbdulRazaq Prioritizes Economic Growth and Community Welfare

    The Kwara State Government has officially commenced the compensation process for the acquisition of 2,100 hectares of land earmarked for the expansion of the Kwara Industrial Park, a major development project initiated in 2023.

    The Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KWGIS), ESV Abdulkareem Babatunde Sulyman, flagged off the exercise at the agency’s headquarters in Ilorin. He explained that the acquired land, located off the old Ogbomoso road, spans over 15 communities in Asa Local Government Area.

    Sulyman further noted that the 2,100 hectares are in addition to the 650 hectares previously acquired, where development has already commenced. He praised the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration for its commitment to economic growth and for approving over ₦500 million to compensate more than 1,000 affected landowners, farmers, and stakeholders.

    He emphasized that the compensation process complies with constitutional provisions for public land acquisition and urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds.

    “Today is a special day as we begin the payment of compensation to customary landowners, land purchasers, and farmers. The government does not buy land but ensures that all legal rights on the acquired land are properly addressed through compensation,” Sulyman stated.

    Community Leaders Applaud Governor AbdulRazaq’s Initiative

    The event witnessed the participation of community leaders, traditional rulers, and government officials, all of whom expressed gratitude for the governor’s vision in developing the Industrial Park.

    Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, represented by the Balogun Alanamu, Dr. Abubakar Usman Jos, commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his foresight and commitment to development. He assured the government of the full support of the traditional council in ensuring the success of the project.

    Other notable figures, including the Aare Ogele, Alhaji Garba Aremu Galadima, also praised the administration’s efforts, highlighting that the Industrial Park would create job opportunities for youths and drive economic prosperity in the area.

    Call for Collaboration and Responsible Use of Compensation

    The Director of Land Services, ESV Abdulwahab AbdulRahman, called for continued support from community members to ensure the smooth implementation of the project. Additionally, Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Motunrayo Adaran, and Legal Adviser, Mrs. Omolara Olubiyi, encouraged beneficiaries to invest the funds in their communities for long-term socio-economic benefits.

    As the compensation process progresses, the Kwara State Government remains committed to executing the Industrial Park expansion efficiently, reinforcing Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s drive to position Kwara as a hub for industrialization and job creation.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Upgrades Ibrahim Taiwo Road to Boost Traffic Flow and Economic Growth

    Governor AbdulRazaq Upgrades Ibrahim Taiwo Road to Boost Traffic Flow and Economic Growth

    … 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 Felicitates with Kwarans on Ramadan, Urges Adherence to Tenets of Faith

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Felicitates with Kwarans on Ramadan, Urges Adherence to Tenets of Faith

    Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has extended his heartfelt felicitations to the Muslim faithful in the state and beyond as they commence the holy month of Ramadan.

    In a statement issued from the Government House in Ilorin, the Governor described Ramadan as a sacred period of spiritual reflection, devotion, and self-discipline, urging Kwarans to uphold the tenets of faith, love, and charity.

    “This is a season of immense blessings, a time to seek closeness to Allah through prayer, fasting, and acts of kindness. I urge all Muslim faithful to take full advantage of this period to strengthen their relationship with the Almighty, extend compassion to the less privileged, and foster unity in our communities,” the Governor said.

    Governor AbdulRazaq also emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and supporting one another, noting that Ramadan serves as a reminder of the virtues of patience, sacrifice, and piety.

    “As we observe this sacred month, let us also remember to pray for our dear state and country. May Allah accept our worship, grant us peace, and continue to bless Kwara State with progress and prosperity,” he added.

    The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering development and ensuring the well-being of all citizens, promising to continue policies that promote social welfare and economic growth.

    He wished all Muslim faithful a blessed and fulfilling Ramadan, praying that their sacrifices and supplications bring abundant rewards.