Category: News

… Residents Excited over Improved Access to Clean Water

#KwaraRising

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.

The Kwara State Government has assured residents of communities affected by the proposed Kwara Smart City Project that their interests will be fairly considered, with adequate compensation and protection of cultural heritage.

The assurance was given by the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, during a meeting in Ilorin with a delegation from Alalubosa community in Ilorin East Local Government, led by the Baale, Alhaji Sakariyau Shonibare.

Dr. Ogunsola explained that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is personally monitoring the project to ensure it aligns with global best practices, balancing socio-economic development with preservation of cultural heritage.

He noted that concerns about job displacement had been addressed, stressing that the project would instead create hundreds of employment opportunities for local residents from inception to completion.

“We appeal for your full cooperation and support for the smooth execution of this project. The Smart City facilities will transform the area and deliver lasting benefits to all Kwarans,” he said.

On the concerns of investors, the Commissioner assured that their investments were secured and integrated into the project’s master plan to guarantee seamless business operations.

The Permanent Secretary, Alhaja Risikat Abdulazeez, thanked the community for engaging productively with government, adding that Governor AbdulRazaq would not disappoint in ensuring residents benefit fully from the project.

Also speaking, the Deed Registrar from Kwara State Geographical Information Service, Mallam Nuhu Yusuf, emphasized that the government values both historical and cultural landmarks, and will work with stakeholders to preserve identified heritage sites within the Smart City.

Presenting the community’s position, Dr. Babatunde Saka, Secretary of Alalubosa, said the meeting reflected the government’s transparency and accessibility, while praying for the continued success of the AbdulRazaq administration.

Other stakeholders, including investors already operating in the designated area, urged the state to factor in the peculiarities of their businesses. They, however, congratulated the government on the landmark Smart City project, describing it as another bold step that distinguishes the present administration.

.. Olukoju: Platform will deepen transparency, accountability in governance

The Kwara State Government has announced that it will hold the third quarter edition of its Quarterly Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing on September 23–24, 2025, to provide comprehensive updates on the policies, programmes, and achievements of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration.

The disclosure was made in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, from the Ministry’s headquarters on Ahmadu Bello Way, Ilorin.

According to the statement, the two-day engagement will feature Commissioners and Chief Executives of Agencies presenting detailed reports on their activities over the last quarter.

“This platform showcases the government’s unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability. Beyond projecting our progress in various sectors, the briefing will also provide an opportunity for the press and members of the public to engage directly with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) on their initiatives and impact over the last quarter,” the statement said.

It further noted that the briefing will be streamed live across all official Kwara State Government social media platforms, encouraging citizens to take part in the process.

“We therefore charge everyone to join the live stream and be part of this exercise as the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration remains steadfast in its mission to deliver good governance and keep Kwarans fully informed,” the statement added.

…Olupo, stakeholders laud Governor’s achievements, highlight fresh community needs 

The Kwara State Government on Thursday concluded its citizens’ engagement for the 2026 budget in Ilemona, Oyun Local Government Area, giving residents of Kwara South a platform to shape the next fiscal plan.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff Princess Olubukola Babalola, said the engagements are designed to ensure that the state budget reflects the true needs and aspirations of citizens across all districts.

“For a budget to be effective, it must reflect the needs of the people. Our government believes that planning for the people without the people is planning to fail. That is why this engagement is crucial,” the Governor said.

He added that past engagements had produced results in healthcare, infrastructure, job creation, agriculture, and education, stressing the need to deepen government–citizen partnership for inclusive and sustainable development.

Deputy Speaker of the Kwara House of Assembly, Hon. Oyebode, commended the administration’s investment in road infrastructure in the region, citing the ongoing Afon-Ojoku-Offa-Odo Otin road. He also requested more roads linking rural communities to markets.

Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Arinde, said the exercise underscores AbdulRazaq’s commitment to listening to the people. She noted that projects across Kwara South have shown that development is spread across the state.

Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, listed key projects in the region, including Ajase-Ipo to Bayero road, Arandun-Esie-Oro road, and Ijara-Isin-Sabaja-Owa Onire road, while announcing upcoming contracts such as Omu Aran township road and Olofa Way in Offa.

Commissioner for Housing, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, disclosed that work will begin at the long-abandoned Offa stadium within two weeks, while housing projects are underway to benefit at least 600 households in Kwara South.

Council chairmen and community leaders praised the Governor’s open-door policy, requesting additional roads, water projects, and security interventions.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail Yahaya Alebiosu, commended AbdulRazaq’s people-focused governance, declaring the full support of monarchs in the region for his administration.

The engagement marks the final leg of the three-phase consultation, following similar sessions in Bode Saadu (Kwara North) and Afon (Kwara Central).

… Commissioner says new equipment will boost electricity, strengthen security, and drive economic growth across the state

The Kwara State Government has procured 30 new electricity transformers as part of efforts to improve power supply, enhance security, and stimulate economic growth across communities in the state.

Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Kola AbdulAzeez AbdulGaniy, disclosed this on Wednesday at the Ministry’s premises while receiving the second batch of the transformers.

He explained that the first batch of 16 transformers was received on August 15, 2025, while the remaining 14 arrived earlier today.

Engr. AbdulGaniy said the initiative underscores the commitment of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to the welfare and security of citizens, noting that access to reliable electricity is critical for economic development, social well-being, and safer communities.

He assured that the administration will continue to prioritize infrastructure that directly impacts the lives of residents, stressing that the new transformers will be deployed to areas of need across the state.

…Administration records 90.6% budget performance in 2024, completes 120km of roads in two years

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday reiterated his administration’s commitment to people-focused governance, saying the state budget will continue to reflect the true needs of citizens.

The Governor spoke at the Citizens’ Engagement on the 2026 budget held in Afon, Asa Local Government, where residents from across Kwara Central gathered to present their priorities for the coming fiscal year.

“We are here for the second of the three-legged citizens’ engagement on the 2026 budget. This is for the people of Kwara Central to have their input in the next budget cycle,” the Governor said. “The whole idea of this engagement is to democratise the budget process in line with global best practices of transparency and inclusion.”

Governor AbdulRazaq, who was joined by lawmakers and top officials, said previous engagements had shaped the administration’s policies and projects since 2019, leading to visible improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, job creation, and food security. He assured residents that the administration would build on its record despite the challenges of governance.

Stakeholders at the event, including traditional rulers, lawmakers, community leaders, and government officials, lauded the administration’s achievements and presented fresh demands ranging from rural road construction to water supply and market upgrades.

Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, disclosed that the government has completed 120km of roads in the last two years, apart from hundreds of kilometres still ongoing. Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Arinde, said the engagement underscored the Governor’s belief that citizens’ voices must guide policy decisions.

Director of Budget, Alhaji Shamsideen Aregbe, announced that Kwara achieved 90.6% budget performance in 2024, the highest in recent years, with capital projects accounting for the bulk of spending.

Stakeholders including Asa LGA Chairman Alhaji Shehu Yahaya, Hon. Yunus Oniboki, Hon. Arinola Lawal, Hon. Rukayat Shittu, SUBEB Chairman Prof. Shehu Adaramaja, and other leaders commended the Governor for his inclusive leadership and sectoral interventions.

The Governor said the administration’s determination is to “beat its own record of good and impactful governance” while urging citizens to continue to provide honest feedback to guide government priorities.

…Governor AbdulRazaq says Kaiama project will boost jobs, value chain growth

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has hailed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to ban the export of raw shea butter, describing it as a bold step that will strengthen Nigeria’s value chain and create more opportunities for local producers.

The Governor’s commendation comes as Kwara prepares to inaugurate a 50-tonne shea processing factory in Kaiama, which will be the second-largest in Nigeria and the biggest owned by any state government.

Governor AbdulRazaq said the policy will stimulate higher production, enhance quality, and open up thousands of jobs across the shea value chain. He noted that the Kaiama factory, one of the flagship economic projects of his administration, is strategically designed to empower women farmers, pickers, and other local workers.

“Locating the factory within Kaiama puts the people at the centre of local shea production. It ensures that benefits such as job creation, reduced post-harvest losses, and value retention stay within the community,” the Governor said in a statement on Tuesday.
He added that the project reflects “true backward and forward integration” by combining raw material sourcing, processing, and market access in one locality.
Kwara North is one of Nigeria’s shea production hubs, with over 250,000 naturally growing trees across 6,000 hectares of land. Alongside Niger State, it accounts for a major share of the country’s shea nut production.

The Kaiama factory is expected to position Kwara as a leading player in the global shea industry, while also advancing the administration’s agenda of driving industrialization and rural development.

….Governor urges residents to speak truth to power, shape government priorities

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday launched the 2026 budget preparation process with a call on citizens to provide candid feedback and help shape government priorities for the coming year.

Speaking at a citizens’ engagement session in Bode Saadu, Moro Local Government, the Governor said the administration is committed to inclusive governance and will continue to harvest the views of the public through consultations with civil society groups, traditional rulers, the private sector, and ordinary residents.

“I am glad to be back in Moro today and for this large turnout. This session is good for our development because it helps us to plan well,” AbdulRazaq said. “A budget is a statement of intent which focuses on the direction the government is headed in the financial year. Citizens’ engagement has served as a barometer to know what the public needs and how resources should be allocated across the state.”

The Governor urged residents to “let us know your truth,” stressing that their direct input is crucial to improving service delivery. He noted that projects ranging from roads and water facilities to health centres, agriculture, and technology hubs are all essential to driving sustainable development.

“We are excited with the volume of development going on across the state. Basically, the support of the people is what motivates us to do better,” he added, assuring that the administration is entering a new phase of growth.

Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Arinde, described the citizens’ engagement initiative as a compelling necessity for effective governance, saying it enhances accountability and strengthens citizens’ participation in decision-making.

Traditional rulers and community representatives at the session also presented their requests. The Ohoro of Shao, Oba Dr. Obalowu Atolagbe, lauded the Governor for promoting gender balance in governance and human capital development, while urging the rehabilitation of township roads and the Shao/Sobi water project. Prince Olatunji Adebara of Jebba called for the establishment of a School of Nursing in the town.

Director of Planning, Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, Samsudeen Aregbe, gave a breakdown of the state’s budget performance for 2024 and 2025, describing it as “excellent.”

The engagement session drew stakeholders from across Kwara North.