… Governor AbdulRazaq approves transparent process to clear backlog, prioritising retirees by year of exit

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The Kwara State Government has established two nonpartisan technical committees made up of technocrats and Labour leaders to verify gratuity records at both state and local government levels, ensuring that pensioners are paid based on when they retired from service.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq approved the initiative as part of his administration’s renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and fairness in the payment of outstanding gratuities across the state.

According to the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, the eight-member committee for state gratuities is chaired by the State Auditor General, while the Local Government Auditor General heads the committee for local government retirees.

Other members include representatives of the retired Permanent Secretaries, retired civil servants’ associations, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and certified accounting professionals from ICAN and ANAN. Mrs. Iyabo Adebayo and Mrs. Amina Ahmed will serve as secretaries for the state and local government committees respectively.

“The primary objective of the committee is to ensure the accuracy and transparent compilation of outstanding state and LGA gratuities for eligible pensioners in readiness for automated bank transfer payments,” Dr. Nuru said.

She explained that the committees have been tasked with verifying detailed yearly gratuity schedules from the pension boards, confirming the eligibility of pensioners using PSN, Pension Numbers, KWSSRA SSID database, and NIN, and reconciling all records against government documents.

The committees will also prioritise payments starting from the oldest outstanding year, recommend disbursements based on available funds, and ensure proper documentation for audit purposes.

Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has consistently prioritised the welfare of retirees, having cleared multiple years of inherited arrears while instituting a structured, transparent process to sustain regular gratuity payments going forward.

…President Tinubu Names AbdulRazaq Chairman of Renewed Hope Programme Steering Committee

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President Bola Tinubu has appointed Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as Chairman of the National Steering Committee for the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme. The initiative targets grassroots economic growth, livelihood enhancement, and social protection across all 8,809 wards in Nigeria.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu will serve as Vice Chairman. Committee members include governors representing the six geopolitical zones: Mai Mala Buni (North-East), Douye Diri (South-South), Dapo Abiodun (South-West), Peter Mbah (South-East), Dikko Umar Radda (North-West), and Hyacinth Alia (North-Central).

The committee convened its inaugural meeting on October 29, 2025, at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Secretariat in Abuja. Governor AbdulRazaq presided over the session, which focused on implementing the ward-based development strategy to stimulate local economies and strengthen community resilience.

Kwara State has been ranked third nationwide in the 2025 edition of BudgIT’s State of States Report, confirming the state’s steady rise as one of Nigeria’s most fiscally responsible and sustainably managed subnationals.

The latest ranking, which placed Anambra, Lagos, and Kwara in the top three positions respectively, reflects Kwara’s strong financial prudence, improved internally generated revenue, and consistent prioritisation of capital investment under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

BudgIT, a civic-tech organisation that promotes fiscal transparency and accountability, unveiled the report in Lagos with the theme “A Decade of Subnational Fiscal Analysis: Growth, Decline and Middling Performance.”
The report marks ten years of tracking the fiscal health and governance efficiency of Nigerian states, assessing revenue generation, debt management, expenditure patterns, and sectoral investments in education and health.

The 2025 ranking highlights Kwara’s upward movement from fourth place in 2024 to third position this year, solidifying its place among the top-performing states. According to BudgIT, Kwara’s fiscal sustainability, prudent spending, and investment in capital projects continue to distinguish it from several subnationals still struggling with over-reliance on federal allocations.

The report also recognised Kwara among only five states alongside Abia, Anambra, Ogun, and Edo that generated enough internal revenue to cover at least half of their operating expenses. This development underscores the growing strength of Kwara’s economic base and the effectiveness of its revenue reforms.

BudgIT’s analysis noted that Kwara maintained a healthy balance between recurrent and capital expenditure, prioritising infrastructure and social investment while keeping personnel costs and debt obligations within sustainable limits.

The organisation also observed that Kwara’s performance over the past few years aligns with the state’s consistent focus on long-term fiscal planning, transparency, and diversification of its revenue sources.

Overall, BudgIT’s 2025 report identified Kwara as a model for subnational governance, citing its fiscal discipline, reform-driven leadership, and strategic investments that have enhanced economic resilience and improved the quality of life for its citizens.

Commenting on the new ranking, BudgIT’s Group Head of Research, Vahyala Kwaga, said the decade-long analysis reinforces the importance of sound fiscal management in achieving sustainable development across states.

Kwara’s top-tier ranking follows similar recognitions in recent years, positioning the state among Nigeria’s most stable, transparent, and investment-ready economies.

… State sets commissioning timelines for Patigi Regatta Motel, International Conference Centre, and other major projects

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The Kwara State Government has announced the completion of several key projects aimed at driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and industrial growth across the state, including the 50-ton Shea Butter Factory in Kaiama and the ICT Hub in Shonga.

Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, disclosed this on Wednesday during the 2025 Third Quarter Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Ministry of Finance conference room in Ilorin.

She said the Shea Butter Factory has reached the equipment testing stage and will soon be commissioned, adding that the facility will boost local production, support farmers, and enhance the state’s export capacity. The Commissioner confirmed that the newly completed ICT Hub in Shonga, Kwara North, is now at the equipment installation and electrical phase, ready to serve as a digital innovation centre for young entrepreneurs.

Hon. Adelodun also announced that work on the Ilorin International Conference Centre (IICC) has reached 47% completion and is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2026, while the remodeling of Kwara Hotel stands at 71% completion with the same delivery timeline. The Patigi Regatta Motel is 80% completed, with final works ongoing ahead of commissioning in December 2025.

She described the projects as part of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq administration’s vision to create a modern, innovation-driven economy, noting that the government has successfully executed and managed 11 landmark projects across the three senatorial districts.

The Commissioner cited the Ilorin Innovation Hub—now recognised as the largest tech hub in Nigeria—and the Kwara Garment Factory as examples of projects that are creating jobs and expanding industrial capacity in the state. She added that the Sugar Film Factory has placed Kwara on the national creative industry map, with its first TV series, Ajuwaya, already in production.

Adelodun further disclosed that the Ministry, in partnership with Kwara State University (KWASU), successfully launched Nigeria’s first gas-to-electric vehicle conversion project, reinforcing Kwara’s leadership in green technology.

She noted that the Kwara Coding and Digital Literacy Programme has trained over 5,500 students from 50 public schools across all 16 local government areas, equipping young Kwarans with digital and creative skills to compete globally.

Hon. Adelodun reaffirmed that the government remains committed to promoting innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic growth, adding that its participation in national trade fairs and investment summits has continued to attract investors and showcase Kwara’s expanding business ecosystem.

Projects to boost access to life-saving oxygen supply across Kwara North and South

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The Kwara State Government has commissioned two state-of-the-art Pressure Swing Absorption (PSA) Oxygen Plants at the General Hospital, Lafiagi, and the Thomas Adewumi Teaching Hospital, Omu-Aran. The projects, donated by the Global Fund, mark another major step in the state’s effort to strengthen healthcare delivery and emergency response capacity.

The plants are designed to serve as regional hubs for the production of medical-grade oxygen, ensuring a steady, affordable, and locally sourced supply to hospitals across Kwara State, particularly in the northern and southern senatorial districts.

Speaking at the technical commissioning ceremonies, Commissioner for Health Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, represented by the Assistant Director of Medical Laboratory Services, Alhaji Toyin Raji, described the initiative as a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare journey.

“Medical oxygen remains a critical life-saving resource used daily in neonatal care, surgeries, and respiratory treatments. With these plants, our hospitals will now enjoy a reliable and affordable oxygen supply produced locally. That means more hope and better health outcomes for our patients,” she said.

Dr. El-Imam expressed appreciation to the Global Fund for its generous support and to the Federal Ministry of Health and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) for their collaboration. She said the initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision to make healthcare accessible, affordable, and sustainable for all Kwarans.

Zonal Coordinator for North Central Oxygen at the Federal Ministry of Health, Mr. Onoja Kingsley, who led the technical inspection, said all components of the plants—including the air compressor, PSA oxygen generator, booster compressor, and filling ramp—were tested and certified for efficiency and purity.

He advised the state to establish an Oxygen Committee and create a sustainability plan to ensure the plants’ continuous operation beyond their five-year warranty period. “The plants should not only produce oxygen but also generate revenue through sales, with proceeds reinvested in maintenance and operations,” he added.

Chief Medical Director of Lafiagi General Hospital, Dr. Saliu Bolakale, commended the state government and the Global Fund for their commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure. He said the plant would enhance service delivery and save countless lives through reliable oxygen access.

“This project marks a major advancement in our healthcare infrastructure and demonstrates government’s consistent dedication to the wellbeing of its people,” he said.

The event was attended by representatives of the Global Fund, NACA, the Federal Ministry of Health, and senior officials from the Kwara State Ministry of Health, who all described the commissioning as a landmark achievement in the state’s ongoing health sector transformation.

…Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Launches KW-GIS Platform as Part of Broader Reform Agenda

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Kwara State has entered a new era of digital governance with the official launch of the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KW-GIS), a comprehensive digital land information system designed to revolutionize property administration, enhance transparency, and accelerate economic development.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq presided over the landmark event on Monday, joined by top government officials, traditional rulers, and development partners.

The platform replaces manual land processes with a fully digital framework that enables online applications, real-time tracking of land titles, and streamlined issuance of Certificates of Occupancy.

In his keynote address, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized the system’s role in reducing bureaucratic delays, eliminating corruption opportunities, and positioning Kwara as a leader in efficient public service delivery.

International development expert Dr. Paul Adepelumi, who delivered the main address, described KW-GIS as a “revolution in land administration” that reflects the state’s commitment to innovation and accountability.

He highlighted how the system aligns with World Bank-supported reforms under the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) program, where Kwara recently ranked first nationally. “This is not just a platform; it is a bold symbol of visionary leadership,” Dr. Adepelumi stated.

KW-GIS Executive Chairman Alhaji Sulyman Abdulkareem confirmed the system will minimize disputes, support urban planning, and improve revenue collection through accurate land valuation and billing.

He also disclosed that the state government paid N560 million in compensation to landowners affected by the Kwara Smart City project, with all related documents now digitized to prevent future encroachment.

Finance Commissioner Dr. Hauwa Nuru, who chairs the state’s Ease of Doing Business Council, noted the platform directly supports Kwara’s goals under the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) by simplifying property registration.

She cited expectations of significant revenue growth, referencing increases of 200% to 500% in other states that adopted similar systems.

The launch reinforces Kwara’s growing reputation for institutional reforms, following earlier successes in education, healthcare, and infrastructure under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration. Officials confirmed that all relevant ministries—including Lands, Finance, and Physical Planning—will integrate operations through the KW-GIS platform to ensure cohesive and data-driven governance.

… Residents Excited over Improved Access to Clean Water

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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday inaugurated the newly rehabilitated Otte/Budo-Egba Waterworks in Asa Local Government Area to improve access to clean and safe water for residents.

The Governor said the completion of the 500,000-litre capacity water facility reflects his administration’s commitment to modernising water infrastructure across the state.

“This is not just about giving clean water to our people. The project brings comfort and renewed confidence in the power of government to deliver,” the Governor said at the commissioning ceremony in Otte town.

“As an administration, we recognised that access to safe and reliable water supply must be a priority. That is why we launched a comprehensive plan to rehabilitate and modernise water infrastructure across the state. The story of Otte and its environs today is a reflection of that vision. Access to clean water improves public health by reducing the prevalence of waterborne diseases. It also supports education, as children no longer have to spend hours fetching water instead of being in school.”

Represented by his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Alhaji AbdulRazaq Jiddah, the Governor commended the contractors for their professionalism and praised residents of Otte and neighbouring communities for their patience, cooperation, and trust in the government’s efforts.

He also appreciated development partners and agencies whose support contributed to the success of the project.

The Governor listed other ongoing water rehabilitation projects across the state, including Omu-Aran, Oyun, and Sobi Waterworks. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that every Kwaran has access to clean and safe water.

Dignitaries at the event included Chairman of the Kwara House of Assembly Committee on Water Resources, Hon. Yunus Oniboki; Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Usman Yunusa Lade; Chairman of Asa LGA, Alhaji Shehu Yahaya Amasa; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religion (Islam), Alhaji Ibrahim Danmeigoro; Chairman of SUBEB, Prof. Shehu Raheem Adaramaja; Chairman of the Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Alhaji Abdullateef Gidado Alakawa; APC chieftain, Alhaji Abdulrahman Giwa; former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Salman Jawondo (SAN); and the Daudu of Afon, Alhaji Anafi Balogun.

Hon. Oniboki commended the project, describing it as a timely intervention that would ease water scarcity in the area. Commissioner Lade urged residents to take ownership of the facility and guard against vandalism, while Alhaji Amasa expressed gratitude to the Governor for addressing a long-standing challenge in the community.

Prof. Adaramaja and Alhaji Alakawa both praised the administration for spreading development evenly across the state and pledged continued support for the government. Adaramaja also called for the revival of the Otte market and other local infrastructure to complement the new water project.

…The state-owned studio, supported by Nigeria’s First Lady, releases its debut production as Kwara strengthens its position in Nigeria’s creative industry.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has commended the unveiling of Ajuwaya Series, the first movie produced at the state’s Sugar Factory Film Studios, describing it as a major step forward for the film and entertainment sector in Nigeria.

The film, 85 per cent of which was produced at the studio, was supported by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who contributed N350 million to the project.

Speaking during a media briefing in Ilorin on Tuesday, the Managing Director of Sugar Factory Film Studios, Gbenga Titiloye, said Ajuwaya signals the beginning of a new phase for creative work in Nigeria, highlighting the Governor’s foresight and the growing appeal of Kwara as a destination for film production.

“What the Governor has achieved here is remarkable because this is the only fully functional film studio in Africa, and most of this production was done here,” Titiloye said.

He also thanked Senator Tinubu for her support, describing her gesture as an investment in Nigeria’s creative future and an effort to showcase local talent to global audiences.

Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Princess Olubukola Babalola, encouraged young people to use the studio to develop skills and build careers in the creative industry. She said the project would drive economic growth and position Kwara as a leader in film and culture.

Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, said the film’s production created more than 1,200 jobs for people including designers, caterers, transporters, and artisans, reflecting the wide reach of the creative economy.

General Manager of the Studio and Producer of Ajuwaya, Grace Babasola, said the project reflects the Governor’s confidence in the potential of young creatives to shape the future of Nigeria’s film industry.

“Ajuwaya is only the beginning,” she said. “It shows that when opportunity meets passion, great stories can emerge that entertain and inspire.”

… Exercise to commence September 22 and 29 across 16 LGAs, free of charge – Govt

The Kwara State Government has announced plans to begin capturing the data of transport operators across the state for proper identification and improved policy planning.

The initiative, according to the Commissioner for Transportation, Hon. Lafia Aliyu Korasabi, is aimed at enhancing transparency, ensuring uniformity, and boosting safety within the transport sector. He disclosed this during a consultative engagement with transport union leaders on Wednesday at the Ministry’s headquarters in Ilorin.

Hon. Lafia explained that the exercise would complement the Kwara State Residential Registration Programme (KWASRRA) by fully integrating transporters into the scheme. He added that the enumeration would also strengthen security, policy planning, and service delivery in the sector.

The exercise will take place at designated centres across the 16 local government areas, including Offa Garage, Maraba Garage, Saw-Mill Garage, Oko-Olowo/Oloje Axis, and several council secretariats. It is scheduled to begin on September 22 and 29, 2025, and will be conducted free of charge.

The Commissioner urged union leaders and members to give their maximum cooperation for a smooth and successful process.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Salau Kabiru Abdullahi, thanked transport leaders for their continuous cooperation and contributions to government policies.

Union leaders, including the Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Alhaji Abdulrahman Olayinka Onikijipa, and the Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Abdulrazaq Ariwoola, commended the Ministry for always engaging stakeholders before introducing new policies.

They, however, appealed to the government to prioritise the reconstruction of state-owned motor parks, which they described as dilapidated and unattractive to passengers, affecting their operations and patronage.

The leaders nonetheless expressed appreciation to the government for its inclusiveness in decision-making, which they said has strengthened collaboration between stakeholders and the state.