Category: News

• Your strides are visible, Senator Mustapha, AGF, Speaker, others
• ⁠Cabinet members roll out cross sector achievements
• ⁠Security remains a top priority: Gov

Kwara APC stakeholders and thought leaders were awestruck on Monday evening as cabinet members took turns to give data, figures, and footages of how far the Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has gone in delivering its campaign promises across the state.

Commissioner for Works Abdulquawy Olododo said official records show that the Abdulrazaq administration now has more completed, ongoing, or facilitated (tax credit) road projects than the three previous administrations since 1999 combined.

He said the administration has completed 302.4kms of roads between 2019 and now, has 275.25km ongoing, including the 209.7km under RAAMP, along with the 294km tax credit road — totaling 871.65km of roads.

“Between 1999 and 2019, available records show that a total of 651.2km roads were done by the three administrations of His Excellencies Mohammed Lawal, Abubakar Bukola Saraki, and Abdulfatah Ahmed, including the 120km FG-funded Chickanda Road under Senator Saraki. When you juxtapose these records, it is clear that His Excellency AbdulRazaq has surpassed that record today,”
Olododo said, backing his presentation with footages of achievements of the administration.

Commissioner for Finance Dr. Hauwa Nuhu said the government has also implemented two minimum wages and paid more counterpart funds than any previous administrations, restating the commitment of the Governor to the wellbeing of Kwarans, including civil servants.

She said the administration has grown the state’s internal revenue from N30.6bn in 2019 to N87.1bn as at Dec 19, 2025 — more than 100 per cent growth in six years.

She mentioned that the administration has cleared all salary and pension arrears the administration inherited — while 100% CONMESS and CONHESS have also been paid and a new 27.5% Teachers Specific Allowance (TSA) has just been approved.

Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, who detailed the trajectory of school infrastructure and other efforts of the government, said the AbdulRazaq administration has hired 8,912 teachers, constructed more than 2,000 classrooms, and bridged gaps in staff welfare, including fixing promotion arrears since 2016 to date.

A presentation on the urban renewal initiative and the Kwara Smart City added vistas to the event as Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development Dr. Segun Ogunsola explained the vision and the steps so far taken, including the construction work on the Kwara State University of Education.

Dignitaries at the event said the achievements of the Governor are unprecedented, phenomenal, visible
to all, and laudable within the context of Kwara’s sociopolitical history.

Senator Salihu Mustapha (Kwara Central) said: “With these achievements that we have seen here today, I think it’s a thing of joy that it is in our lifetime that we have a Governor who, in his quiet moment, has been able to achieve this. If anybody has told us that the state has progressed to this level, we will not believe it but we have seen it first hand.

“From today, I am one of those who will carry the flag out there and say come to Kwara and see what the Governor has done. This is a gathering of APC family and it indicates that we were not wrong in the choice of our leader.

“We have seen the human capital development, we have seen the infrastructural development, we have seen the social welfare, what else do you need in a society again? All we need to do is to continue to pray and beg Allah for a peaceful co-existence.

“For me at the end of this programme, Kwarans should go on a celebration galore because in the last 16 years before His Excellency, I don’t think anybody can boast of infrastructural development like this. I want to thank His Excellency, who has led us this far and also to the committed team God has given him.”

Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) Prince Lateef Fagbemi said the Governor has done very well, calling on critics to be fair in pointing out areas they want improvements on as no system is ever perfect.

“I want to say that the meeting of today is not just to eat. We have been treated to the achievements of the Governor. Believe me, if you bring a blind man to Kwara State, he would know and appreciate that developments are taking place,” he said.

“Don’t let us be sentimental. We are all living witnesses to the good performance of this administration. If we allow this chance to slip away we will all suffer for it. We are bound to disagree but the solution is not in destroying ourselves.

“When the thing is not going in the way you think, or perceive, and the way you would have loved it to be, the solution is not in destroying the programme. We have seen how the Governor has managed labour issues. We have also seen his achievements in education and healthcare, and others.”

Speaker of the House of House of Assembly Engr. Salihu Yakubu-Danladi said the lawmakers in the state have always been convinced that the Governor is a superlative achiever whose footprints exist everywhere in the state.

His words: “On behalf of my colleagues in the 10th Assembly, I want to state that we have been part and parcel of this government in the last six years. Most of these achievements are what we see in every budget circle, just as we are aware that the Governor has just presented the 2026 budget today.

“The Governor of Kwara State has done wonderfully well in the 24 state constituencies. In all 193 wards, there are projects everywhere. Aside from the physical infrastructure, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has done very well in the areas of stomach infrastructure through social investment programmes.”

Director General, Nigeria Orientation Agency (NOA), Alhaji Issa Lanre Onilu, said with the catalogue of sectoral achievements projected at the event, Governor AbdulRazaq has performed beyond his initial estimation.

He enjoined AbdulRazaq to focus more on how to sustain some of his legacy projects, including the iconic Garment Factory, Innovation Hub, and the Kwara Smart City.

“I have always thanked our Governor and our leader for the wonderful job he is doing. But let me admit that even when I was commending him, I didn’t know this much. So, the commendations I gave to him were based on what I saw. But what I have seen today is far more than what I have ever imagined.

“I want to say clearly that we all have every reason to be proud of what has happened in the last six years. If you are not proud of it, it means you really do not know what is on the ground.

“The people I want to talk to are those in charge of our communication: please do not fall into the trap of exchanging words with the people who set us back for several years. They want you to discuss politics, they want you to discuss the mundane and irrelevant things, but let me tell you clearly that you have a lot to showcase. Focus on what we have done in the last six years, focus on the development in all the local government areas that people can see and feel. As far as governance is concerned, we have done well and Otoge has proven to be a remarkable success for this state.”

Director General, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr. Abdullateef Shittu,
commended the Governor’s style of leadership both as NGF Chairman and as Governor of the state.

He described AbdulRazaq as a leader who is calm but firm, consultative but decisive, and one who is grounded in institutional respect.

“This gathering speaks to a deeper leadership instinct: the understanding that political success is sustained when dialogue remains open, when differences are managed with wisdom, and when collective responsibility is placed above individual ambition. These are values that Kwara State has come to be known for under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq,” he said.

State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi Abubakar Danladi, said no single political ward in the state has not benefitted one form of capital project or the other, adding that the impacts are already being felt.

Amb. Abdulfatai Yahaya Seriki, Dr. Amina Ahmed and Engr Nurudeen Adeyemi, who spoke for the three Senatorial Districts, commended the Governor’s style of leadership, his political tolerance, and a dedication to rewrite the story of Kwara.

In a short address to party leaders and thought leaders who attended the event, Governor AbdulRazaq said “I am just interested in building a legacy of leaving this state far more than I met it, a legacy of a state that is viable. I am not interested in building a dynasty, and I urge that we work together for a greater state”.

He also spoke extensively on security matters, giving insights into the successes and the challenges and reassuring the people of the government’s commitment to rid the state of kidnappers and terrorists.

He acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu whose economic policies the Governor said has freed up resources with which the government is able to expand infrastructure at various layers.

Governor Abdulrazaq commended everyone for turning up for the event, which he said was a continuation of the parley that held in Abuja a few weeks ago.

Rafiu Ajakaye
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
December 23, 2025

There was a mild drama at the Kwara State High Court Ilorin on Friday as Hon. IIliasu Ibrahim failed to turn up for his arraignment in a defamation case slammed on him.

The case followed a petition by an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain Mr. Shuaib Aremu Olowo after Hon. Ibrahim Ibrahim and his two other cohorts went on radio to accuse Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of awarding an $800m contract to his elder and Mutawali of Ilorin, Dr. Alimi Abdulrazaq.

The APC chieftain said the accusations were a dent on the party ahead of the election.

At the hearing for the arraignment of Alhaji lIliasu Ibrahim, Mr. Shola Muse, and Adesemowo Suleiman, counsel to Iliasu Bar. Taofeeq Olateju told the court that the 81-year-old controversial politician had collapsed following “abdominal pain, generalised body pain, and headache” and is being treated for “enteritis”.

“In view of this, he is presently unfit for any activity until there is significant improvement and discharged home,” the counsel said. Barr Taofeeq Olateju further took excuses for Mall Shola Muse that he could not attend his arraignment on the grounds that he is not in Kwara State as the time he was to be served his charge sheet prior to today’s arraignment, same reason was given by Barr A. A Ibrahim who represented the third Defendant one Adesemowo Suleiman (aka Omo Ifokonbale) for his absence in court.

The presiding judge, Justice E. B. Mohammed warned the defendants through their counsels, that court has not taken cognizance of them since they are yet to be arraigned before the court and therefore adjourned their arraignment to Jan. 7, 2026, while asking them to unfailingly turn up on the next adjournment date .

…State’s public school team defeats contenders from 16 countries to lift international title

#KwaraRising

Kwara State has recorded another major milestone in education as its public school students emerged champions at the 2025 Asia Parliamentary International Debate Competition (Junior Secondary School Category) held in Malaysia.

The team, which represented Nigeria at the global contest, outperformed participants from 16 countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe to claim the top prize. Their victory adds to Kwara’s growing list of achievements in competitive debating, where the state has previously held multiple national titles.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq expressed his excitement at the latest feat, saying the students had once again placed Nigeria on the global stage for academic excellence. He praised the team for their brilliance, resilience, and the honour they have brought to both the state and the country.

The governor said the win reflects the impact of the administration’s continued investment in basic education. He added that the government remains committed to improving learning outcomes and strengthening the education system across the state.

He also commended the leadership of the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board, headed by Prof. Sheu Raheem Adaramaja, along with the coaches and other stakeholders who contributed to the students’ preparation and success.

According to him, their dedication has been central to the steady progress recorded in the state’s basic education reforms.

Kwara State Government did not at any time award a contract to the elder brother of the Governor and Mutawali of Ilorin, Dr. Alimi AbdulRazaq, according to a statement on Thursday.

The statement added that a comment attributed to Hon. Iliasu Ibrahim that the Governor awarded a contract worth $800m (₦1.2trillion) is false, reckless, ill-conceived, and intended to cause mischief and public dissatisfaction.

“At no time did the government of the state even award a contract worth $800m. We are, therefore, alarmed by the depth of recklessness and evil intent that made Hon. Iliasu Ibrahim to claim in a radio broadcast that His Excellency awarded a contract or empowerment worth $800m to his elder brother. This is false, baseless, and malicious,” the statement said.

“Throughout the radio programme, Alhaji Iliasu and his co-travellers did not mention the specific FG’s project or programme that he claimed was awarded to Dr. Alimi. The Governor’s elder brother, Dr. Alimi, is an accomplished and respected senior lawyer and a Bencher. He is not a contractor.

“Besides, at no time did Kwara get a Federal Government project or empowerment worth $800m (₦1.2trillion) — much less award it to anyone in the state. But particularly concerning is how a radio station allowed its platform to peddle such disinformation without anyone on its management team cautioning the guest and the anchor.

“Whilst Alhaji Iliasu has a history of queer public conducts long managed by everyone, repeatedly offering such persons a platform to cause mischief and incite public disaffection on a grander scale carries immeasurable risk for any reputable media platform and public peace.

“We concede the right of every citizen to freedom of expression. However, such freedom comes with corresponding responsibility and a duty of care to other citizens and the general public.

“As democrats, we request the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to do justice in this matter as soon as possible — even as other private citizens maligned in the reckless radio programme are within their right to do a review of same.”

Bolanle Olukoju
Commissioner for Communications
Kwara State Government
December 4, 2025

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of his friend and associate, Mr. Segun Awolowo Jr., a former two-term Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council and grandson of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Segun Awolowo died on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the age of 62.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the Governor described Segun as “a great friend, a great public servant, and a jolly-good fellow whose company everyone cherished,” calling his passing “devastating” and noting that he would be “sorely missed for every good thing that he stood for.”

Governor AbdulRazaq urged family, friends, and associates to take consolation in Segun’s legacy of distinguished public service, unwavering loyalty to loved ones, and his contributions to national development. He prayed for the repose of his soul and for God’s comfort upon his wife, children, and elderly mother.

Also mourning the late Awolowo was Engr. Femi Sanni, Chairman of Flow FM and a close friend of the deceased.
Speaking with deep emotion, Engr. Sanni described Segun as “a remarkable person whose kindness, intellect, and humanity touched everyone around him.His passing is a painful loss, but his warmth, generosity, and legacy will continue to inspire us.”

Segun Awolowo Jr. is survived by his wife, children, and mother.

The Kwara State Government has announced temporary security measures across selected schools in five local government areas in response to emerging threats linked to criminal activities in the region.

The decision affects schools in Ifelodun, Ekiti, Irepodun, Isin and Oke Ero local governments. According to the State Government, the action is part of a broader safety plan aimed at preventing kidnappers or fleeing attackers from targeting schoolchildren.

In a statement issued in Ilorin on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, said the government is acting to stay ahead of any threat and keep learning communities safe. He explained that boarding schools in Irepodun LGA are also covered under the arrangement because they could be considered vulnerable locations during intensified security operations in the state.

Dr Olohungbebe noted that the measures will remain in force while the government continues to review the security situation and awaits further clearance from relevant agencies. He assured parents, guardians and school authorities that the step is preventive and part of an ongoing effort to strengthen confidence in the safety of school environments.

The state government has urged communities to remain vigilant and provide useful intelligence to security agencies working in affected areas. Residents were also encouraged to support ongoing security work by reporting suspicious movements or unknown persons, especially around schools and farm settlements.

The latest announcement follows increased surveillance and recent federal orders for expanded security deployment in parts of Kwara following recent attacks in Ekiti LGA. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.

… Amolegbe highlights sustained reforms and partnerships driving education growth in Kwara

#KwaraRising

The Kwara State Education Trust Fund has again taken the global stage as its Executive Secretary, Oluwadamilola Fatima Amolegbe, joined panelists at the World Bank’s “Entertaining Change: Next-Generation Media Partnerships for Social Impact and Gender Equality Forum” held in Abuja.

Speaking during the session on policy and advocacy, Amolegbe shared how Kwara is building durable systems that ensure reforms remain in place beyond any single programme or administration. She referenced the Kwara Education Futures Summit held shortly after Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq declared a state of emergency in the sector. The summit, led by education stakeholders including former World Bank Senior Education Specialist Dr. Tunde Adekola, produced a communique that now guides major reforms in the state.

She highlighted three key outcomes from that policy shift. KwaraAGILE, which supports adolescent girls in secondary schools. KwaraETF, which ensures a sustainable and transparent approach to funding education. And KwaraLEARN, the ongoing digital learning programme transforming public primary schools.

The Abuja forum is part of a wider global engagement convened by the World Bank Development Impact Group with support from IFC, the EU Delegation to Nigeria, Eden Venture Group, Women In Film, and the Gates Foundation. The gathering focuses on how evidence, technology, and creative storytelling can support gender equality and learning outcomes.

KwaraETF’s appearance at the forum reinforces its reputation as one of the country’s leading models for education funding reform and public–private collaboration.

… Governor Reiterates Support for Mechanisation as Emir Commissions Ultra-modern Mosque

Kwara State played host on Tuesday to top policymakers, researchers, and agricultural engineers as Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Borno State Governor Professor Babagana Umara Zulum led the 25th International Conference and 45th AGM of the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineers. The event took place at the National Centre for Agricultural Mechanisation in Idofian, Ifelodun Local Government Area.

In his remarks, Governor AbdulRazaq said the state is investing in policies and tools that support young innovators, researchers, and agripreneurs in scaling productivity and improving food systems.

He said more than 10,000 farmers in Kwara have benefitted from tractors, ploughs, processing machines, and other implements distributed under government-backed programmes aimed at boosting food production and strengthening value chains.

“The NIAE has pushed mechanisation with research and locally developed machines that reduce cost and increase yields for farmers across Nigeria. Being home to NCAM, Kwara has seen first-hand the impact of this progress,” he said.

The Governor added that agriculture in the state has moved beyond subsistence, noting that improved mechanisation has expanded productivity and farm capacity. He also encouraged participants to use the conference to address new realities including climate change, technology adoption, and land-use challenges.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, joined other experts and industry stakeholders at the gathering. Governor AbdulRazaq later received an Award of Excellence from the association for his efforts in repositioning agriculture in the state.

After the conference, the Governor attended the official commissioning of the Imam Gambari Ultra-modern Mosque in Ilorin. He was joined by Governor Zulum and Senator Kyari.

The event drew senior Islamic scholars, including the Chief Imam of Ilorin Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Soliu, key traditional title holders, and notable community leaders.

The Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of Ilorin, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, and APC stalwart Alhaji Abdulfatah Yahya Seriki received the dignitaries at the mosque, which was earlier commissioned by the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR.

The historic structure dates back to the early 19th century and has now been remodelled into a modern worship facility.