The Kwara State House of Assembly has passed the 2025 Appropriation Bill, approving a total budget of ₦584.69 billion, following an upward review of the initial ₦540.37 billion presented by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq in December 2024.
The House increased the budget by ₦44.33 billion to strengthen funding for key sectors such as Education, Health, Agriculture, Water, Housing, Youth Development, Works, and Transport. The budget breakdown shows that Capital Expenditure accounts for ₦379.40 billion (64.9%), while Recurrent Expenditure stands at ₦205.30 billion (35.1%).
Speaking after the passage of the bill, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Engr. Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, emphasized that Kwara State continues to align with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) budgetary framework, which adheres to global best practices. He also noted that the state has sustained the National Charts of Accounts approach adopted in 2024 and ensured that the 2025 budget fully complies with the SABER template.
The Speaker commended the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, led by Hon. Fatima Arinola Lawal, for their diligence in reviewing the budget. He urged lawmakers to ensure effective implementation of the budget in line with constitutional provisions.
He also appreciated the Clerk of the House, management, and staff, particularly the Budget, Planning, Research & Statistics Department, for their dedication to the budget process. He called on Kwarans to continue supporting the state government in its developmental efforts.
With the passage of the Appropriation Bill, the Clerk of the House, Alhaji Kareem Ahmed, has been directed to prepare a clean copy for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s assent, marking a significant step towards funding key projects and policies in Kwara State for 2025.
… Ends Tour with Focus on Productive Enterprise, HIV Elimination Campaign, and N350m Film Factory Support
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday concluded her three-day working visit to Kwara State with a tour of the Garment Factory, a flagship project of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the largest facility of its kind in Nigeria.
The visit underscored the governor’s commitment to youth empowerment and economic development, as the First Lady encouraged workers to maximize the opportunities created by the state government.
“What your Governor has done is to create opportunities for enterprise and productive engagement of youths and women. I want you to work hard and become successful.
I’m here purposely to encourage you to make this a huge success for yourself and for your state,” Senator Tinubu told the workers in Yoruba. She also gifted each worker N20,000 as a token for their lunch, eliciting cheers and gratitude from the beneficiaries.
The Garment Factory, which employs hundreds of young people and women, is a key component of Governor AbdulRazaq’s strategy to reduce unemployment and foster economic growth through industrialization.
The facility produces uniforms, school kits, and other textile products, serving both local and international markets.
HIV Elimination Campaign Launch
Earlier in the day, Senator Tinubu launched the “Free to Shine” campaign, an initiative of the Organization of African First Ladies (OAFLAD) aimed at eliminating new HIV infections among women and children.
The campaign also seeks to ensure that children born with HIV receive adequate treatment and support.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady highlighted Nigeria’s high burden of HIV infections, particularly among women and youth, and called for concerted efforts to address the challenge. “To complement the Free to Shine campaign, I have also decided to advocate for the triple elimination of HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis. This campaign will be held across the six geopolitical zones of the nation,” she said.
Governor AbdulRazaq commended the First Lady for her leadership in the fight against HIV and pledged the support of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to raise awareness and mobilize resources for the cause.
“We must act swiftly to minimize the impact of global policy shifts on millions of Africans living with HIV,” he said.
N350 Million Boost for Sugar Factory Film Studio
The First Lady’s visit also highlighted her N350 million donation to support the production of a culturally inspired movie at the Sugar Factory Film Studio, another landmark project of the AbdulRazaq administration. The film, which will showcase Kwara’s rich cultural heritage, is expected to elevate the state’s profile in Nigeria’s creative industry.
Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude for the First Lady’s generosity, describing it as a testament to her commitment to Kwara’s development. “Her support for the Sugar Factory Film Studio reflects her passion for preserving our cultural values and promoting our creative talents,” he said.
A Transformative Three-Day Visit
Senator Tinubu’s visit, which began on Tuesday, featured the commissioning of several iconic projects, including the General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, the Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover, and an ultramodern Intensive Care Unit (ICU). She also performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital and toured the Ilorin Innovation Hub, a tech facility attracting partnerships from global organizations like IHS Towers and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The First Lady’s itinerary also included a state dinner at the remodeled Flower Garden, a symbolic representation of Governor AbdulRazaq’s efforts to revitalize public spaces.
Health Minister, WHO, UNICEF Pledge Support
At the Free to Shine campaign launch, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate, revealed that 1.5 million Nigerians living with HIV are currently receiving treatment, a significant improvement from previous years. He reiterated the federal government’s commitment to eliminating HIV, Syphilis, and Hepatitis through comprehensive prevention, testing, and treatment services.
World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, and UNICEF Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, praised Nigeria’s dedication to HIV elimination and pledged continued support for the campaign.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Development
As Senator Tinubu departed Kwara State, her visit left a lasting impression of Governor AbdulRazaq’s transformative leadership. From infrastructure and healthcare to youth empowerment and cultural preservation, the state is breaking new grounds in development, setting a benchmark for others to follow.
… Donates N350 Million to Boost Kwara’s Film Industry and Showcase State’s Cultural Heritage … Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s Legacy Project Poised to Elevate Nollywood, Continental Film Production
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday expressed excitement over the world-class facilities at the Sugar Factory Film Studio in Ilorin, declaring that Kwara State is primed to revolutionize Nigeria’s creative industry. The studio, a legacy project of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has been hailed by industry veterans as one of the best-equipped film production hubs in Nigeria and Africa.
During her tour of the studio, Senator Tinubu marveled at its cutting-edge equipment, sound stages, and post-production suites, describing the facility as a “jaw-dropping” investment in Nigeria’s cultural and economic future. “What I have seen here today is extraordinary. Kwara is clearly prepared to cause a major upset in the Nigerian creative industry.” she said.
A Hub for African Storytelling
The Sugar Factory Film Studio, conceptualized under Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration, is designed to position Kwara as a premier destination for film and television production. Equipped with advanced technology, including high-definition cameras, editing suites, and soundproof stages, the studio aims to attract local and international filmmakers, reducing the need for Nigerian producers to seek facilities abroad.
Industry veterans and creatives who have toured the studio have endorsed its capacity to rival top studios in Lagos, South Africa, and beyond. “This facility is a game-changer. It has everything needed to produce blockbuster movies and series right here in Kwara,” said a veteran Nollywood director who participated in the studio’s test runs.
Senator Tinubu emphasized the studio’s potential to create jobs, empower youth, and showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage to the world. This aligns perfectly with President Tinubu’s agenda to harness Nigeria’s creative talents for national development, she added that the studio’s emergence dovetails with the federal government’s push to expand the creative economy, which currently contributes over 2% to Nigeria’s GDP.
To boost the state’s creative ambitions, Senator Tinubu donated N350 million to produce a major film highlighting the state’s culture and traditions. The donation, hailed by the state government and residents, will fund a movie project that showcases Kwara’s unique heritage globally while creating opportunities for local filmmakers and actors. Her Excellency’s generosity is a sign of her deep commitment to Kwara’s development. With industry analyst hopeful that the gnerous donation will open doors for more talents.
Governor AbdulRazaq, who accompanied the First Lady on the tour, reiterated his administration’s commitment to diversifying Kwara’s economy through investments in innovation, culture, and technology. “The Sugar Factory Film Studio is more than a creative space; it is an economic catalyst. We are creating an ecosystem where talent meets opportunity, and where African stories are told with global appeal,” he said. The studio is part of a broader creative cluster in Kwara that includes the Visual Arts Centre and the recently commissioned Innovation Hub, both designed to nurture talent across the arts and tech sectors.
…Kwara State witnesses historic commissioning of landmark projects
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday described Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as an “outstanding leader and amazing achiever” during the second day of her three-day visit to the state.
The visit, marked by the commissioning of landmark projects and the launch of new initiatives, showcased the governor’s transformative leadership and commitment to development.
Joined by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman, and several first ladies from across the country, Senator Tinubu began the day by flagging off the distribution of 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the North Central region. The kits, part of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aim to support and encourage frontline health workers who play a critical role in maternal and child healthcare.
Historic Commissioning of Flyovers
The First Lady later commissioned the General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, a 562-meter-long structure designed to ease traffic congestion and boost economic activities in Ilorin.
Cecilia Idiagbon, widow of the late General Tunde Idiagbon, expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as a reflection of Governor AbdulRazaq’s respect for history and dedication to honoring national heroes.
Senator Tinubu also inaugurated the Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover, a 457.4-meter-long structure named after the revered Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs. Both flyovers are expected to significantly reduce travel time, enhance road safety, and improve the aesthetics of the state capital.
Groundbreaking for Oluremi Tinubu Hospital
The First Lady performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the epynomous Senator Oluremi Tinubu Hospital, a multi-storey healthcare facility being constructed on the site of the old civil service clinic in the GRA.
The hospital, designed to offer premium healthcare services, is part of the state government’s efforts to improve access to quality medical care for residents and beyond.
Commissioner for Health Dr. Amina Ahmed el-Imam explained that the hospital would address critical healthcare needs and serve as a legacy project for future generations.
Innovation Hub and Sugar Factory Film Studio
Senator Tinubu also visited the Ilorin Innovation Hub, a state-of-the-art facility designed to nurture tech talent and drive local solutions to developmental challenges.
Impressed by the hub’s vision and impact, the First Lady described it as “mind-blowing” and pledged to share her experience with President Bola Tinubu.
“What I have seen here is borne out of a clear dream about where the Governor wants his people to be. This dream is coming alive. You have enough projects to showcase, and I am indeed very proud of you,” she said.
Her tour concluded at the Sugar Factory Film Studio, another legacy project of the AbdulRazaq administration aimed at promoting creativity and cultural expression in the state.
Midwife Kits Distribution and Maternal Health Advocacy
At the distribution of professional kits to midwives, Senator Tinubu commended Governor AbdulRazaq and his wife, Amb. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, for their hospitality and commitment to development. She emphasized the importance of supporting midwives, who play a vital role in reducing maternal and perinatal mortality.
“This is to complement the ongoing federal government’s retraining exercise of 120,000 frontline health workers nationwide. The Renewed Hope Initiative procured 60,000 branded scrubs and 60,000 crocs as incentives to encourage and support the tireless dedication of our midwives,” she said.
Governor AbdulRazaq, in his remarks, praised the First Lady for her humanitarian gestures, noting that the kits would enhance the capacity of health workers and improve maternal and child healthcare services in the state.
The day’s events was attended by prominent figures, including Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi and his wife Abieyuwa; Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Yakubu Danladi Salihu; Senator Sadiq Umar; federal and state parliamentarians; cabinet members; heads of government agencies; party leaders; clerics; and community leaders
… As Gov AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman leads Technology Revolution In Kwara State
#KwaraRising
The Ilorin Innovation Hub, a groundbreaking initiative by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, stands as a beacon of technological advancement and youth empowerment.
As Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, tours this iconic facility, Kwara takes a bold step into the future of software engineering, AI, robotics, digital marketing, and more.
Designed to attract global tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Facebook, this hub will nurture the next generation of innovators, equipping Kwara youths with world-class digital skills to thrive in the modern economy.
Governor Abdulraham Abdulrazaq is doing a lot to put Kwara state on the tech map and ensure that the youths reap the benefits of the IT world.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is set to commission two newly constructed flyovers in Kwara State today, marking a historic milestone for the state. The flyovers, named in honour of the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Kolapo Sulu-Gambari CFR, and the late Gen. Tunde Idiagbon, were built by Governor Abdulrazaq AbdulRahman, and are set for commissioning today by Nigeria’s First Lady.
Senator Tinubu arrived in Ilorin yesterday for a working visit. During her visit, she inaugurated the ICT Community Centre at Kwara State University of Education, a project completed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in partnership with her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). She also commissioned an ultra-modern Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, both built by Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration.
Beyond the flyovers, the First Lady will also tour several other key projects initiated by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. These include the Innovation Hub, Visual Arts Centre, Sugar Factory Film Studio, and the Garment Factory, all of which reflect his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development and economic growth in Kwara State.
The commissioning of the flyovers is expected to ease congestion in strategic areas of Ilorin, significantly improving mobility, economy and also boost commercial activities in the state capital.
Excitement filled the air in Ilorin on Tuesday as Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commenced a three-day visit to Kwara State. The visit, marked by the unveiling of several landmark projects, underscored Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to digital empowerment, healthcare, and infrastructure development in the state.
First Lady Inaugurates Key Projects
Senator Tinubu’s visit began with the inauguration of the ICT Community Centre at the Kwara State University of Education, a project built by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a foundation led by the First Lady.
The centre is expected to provide invaluable opportunities for youth and women, equipping them with essential ICT skills to break traditional barriers and access new opportunities.
The First Lady also inaugurated an ultra-modern Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, two major healthcare projects initiated by Governor AbdulRazaq.
These facilities are set to significantly enhance the state’s healthcare delivery system.
Groundbreaking Ceremonies and Project Tours
Over the next two days, Senator Tinubu is scheduled to unveil or conduct groundbreaking ceremonies for several other projects. These include the Emir Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover and the Gen. Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, both of which are set for inauguration on Wednesday.
Additionally, the rescheduled groundbreaking ceremony for the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital will take place on Wednesday.
The First Lady will also tour other iconic projects initiated by Governor AbdulRazaq, such as the Innovation Hub, Visual Arts Centre, and the Garment Factory.
These projects are reputed to be among the best of their kind in the country, reflecting the governor’s vision for a technologically advanced and economically vibrant Kwara State.
*State Dinner and Royal Homage*
Later on Tuesday, the First Lady attended a state dinner organized in her honor by the Kwara State government at the Flower Garden, a recently revitalized recreational facility that was once a hideout for criminal activities.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Vice President’s wife Nana Shettima, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, First Ladies from across the country, federal and state parliamentarians, cabinet members, and party elders.
Senator Tinubu also paid a visit to the palace of the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, who offered prayers for President Tinubu, the First Lady, and Governor AbdulRazaq.
The Emir praised the governor for his achievements and unwavering support for the President.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s Vision for a Digital Future
Speaking at the inauguration of the ICT Community Centre, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu and the First Lady for their impactful initiatives. He emphasized the importance of technology in securing a prosperous future for the people of Kwara.
“Technology is here to stay, and the only path forward is to aggressively invest in the skills and infrastructure that will secure a prosperous future for our people,” the Governor said. “As we commission this ICT Community Centre today, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to Her Excellency and the Renewed Hope Initiative for this remarkable investment in our community and youth.”
The Governor also commended the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, for their support in realizing the project’s objectives.
A Call to Protect and Utilize New Facilities
Mrs. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, the Governor’s wife, urged the host school and users of the new ICT Centre to protect the facility and take full advantage of its services. She highlighted the project’s role in promoting digital empowerment and fostering a technology-enabled equitable future for all Nigerians.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, reiterated the President’s commitment to harnessing the potentials of digital innovation to drive national prosperity and inclusivity.
Food Support for the Vulnerable
As part of her visit, the First Lady, led by Nana Shettima, distributed food support to vulnerable groups under the Renewed Hope Initiative and ASR Initiative. Governor AbdulRazaq commended this intervention, expressing his gratitude to the First Lady for her efforts in alleviating the plight of the less privileged.
The three-day visit of Senator Oluremi Tinubu to Kwara State not only highlights the significant strides made under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration but also shows the collaborative efforts between the state and federal governments in driving development and empowerment across Nigeria.
The long-awaited upgrade of the road leading to the General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover in Ilorin, Kwara State, has been completed and fully opened for public use. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, announced the development while commissioning the project, which connects the Tanke Junction to the flyover, a significant route for Kwarans.
In a gesture that highlights the state’s commitment to honoring Nigeria’s rich history, the Governor declared the newly upgraded road will now be named Tafawa Balewa Road, in remembrance of Nigeria’s first and only Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.
This decision serves as a tribute to Balewa’s enduring legacy and acknowledges his contributions to Nigeria before his tragic demise in the January 1966 coup.
The upgrade of this vital road is part of Governor AbdulRazaq’s ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure across Kwara State, ensuring better connectivity and enhanced quality of life for residents.
…Governor AbdulRazaq, PGF Chair Uzodinma, and Dignitaries Welcome Oluremi Tinubu for Two-Day Event
#KwaraRising
The Nation’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, arrived in Ilorin on Tuesday morning to a warm reception by dignitaries led by Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The visit marks the commencement of a two-day event featuring the inauguration of key projects and the groundbreaking of a new hospital.
The First Lady’s itinerary began at the Kwara State University of Education, where she inaugurated the ICT Community Centre, Intensive Care Unit, and Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, all funded by her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI). She also led the distribution of food support to vulnerable groups under the RHI program.
Later, Mrs. Tinubu paid homage to the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, who chairs the Kwara State Council of Chiefs. The Emir’s contributions to peace, development, and his fatherly role in the Emirate were recognized as Governor AbdulRazaq announced the naming of the newly constructed Unity Flyover in his honour. The flyover will be officially inaugurated on Wednesday.
In another highlight of the visit, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital. The multi-storey facility is being constructed on the site of the old civil service clinic, symbolizing a significant upgrade in healthcare infrastructure for the state.
The First Lady’s entourage included the wives of the Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Chief of Staff, as well as First Ladies from across Nigeria, federal and state lawmakers, top government officials, and party leaders. Notable attendees included Kwara State House of Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Saliu Yakubu, Senator Sadiq Umar (Kwara North), and House of Representatives member Mukhtar Tolani Shagaya.
Religious leaders, including the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Soliu, and CAN Chairman Bishop Sunday Adewole, were also present at the event, showcasing the significance of the occasion.
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has announced the naming of several legacy projects after prominent historic figures and leaders, both past and present. The move is aimed at recognizing their contributions to the state and the nation at large.
Among the honorees is Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, after whom the multibillion-naira Civil Service Clinic project is being named. The clinic, currently undergoing reconstruction, will be transformed into a state-of-the-art multistory health facility. Senator Tinubu is scheduled to perform the groundbreaking ceremony during her official visit to Kwara State from January 28 to 30, 2025.
During her visit, the First Lady will also inaugurate other significant projects, including the Unity Flyover, the ultramodern Intensive Care Unit, the Executive Ward, and the Gen. Tunde Idiagbon Flyover. The road leading to the flyover has been renamed Tafawa Balewa Road in honor of Nigeria’s former Prime Minister, who was killed in the January 1966 military coup.
In addition, Governor Abdulrazaq has approved the naming of the ICT Centre at Kwara State University of Education after former Minister Amina Ndalolo, a prominent figure from Kwara North. The Executive Ward at the Kwara State Teaching Hospital will bear the name of the late Dr. Amuda Aluko, a renowned physician and politician.
The first state secretariat has been renamed the Brigadier General David Bamigboye Secretariat in honor of the first military administrator of the old Kwara State, while the new secretariat will be named after Rear Admiral Muhammed Alabi Lawal, who governed the state from 1999 to 2003.
The Kwara State Stadium Complex will now be known as the Major-General George Agbazika Innih Stadium Complex, recognizing his contributions to the state. The main bowl of the stadium has been named after the late Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria’s football legend and the country’s highest goal scorer, who famously scored Nigeria’s first World Cup goal.
Other notable facilities and their honorees include:
Table Tennis Arena: Named after Atanda Musa (Manza Musa), a national champion in 1979.
Indoor Sports Hall: Named after Gabriel Babatunde Ladipo, the first black principal of the Government Technical Training School Ilorin and regarded as the father of sports in the state.
Squash Court: Named after Coach Bolakale Mogaji, the executive chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission and a pioneer in squash.
KFA Academy: Named after Coach Usuman Adenuja, the first football coach to lead the Kwara Academicals to the finals of an academical football competition.
The stadium’s hostels have also been renamed:
Hostel A: Named after Salihu Ishola, the first Kwaran Commonwealth Games medalist.
Hostel B: Named after Paralympic badminton bronze medalist Bolaji Eniola.
Hostel C: Named after Bola Esan, the first female director of sports in the state.
Governor Abdulrazaq’s decision to name these projects after distinguished individuals reflects his administration’s commitment to honoring the legacy of those who have contributed to the development of Kwara State and Nigeria as a whole.
