Kwara Rising

Category: News

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Launches 2025 Kwara Agro Inputs Fair to Boost Food Security

    Governor AbdulRazaq Launches 2025 Kwara Agro Inputs Fair to Boost Food Security

    …. State Government Reaffirms Commitment to Agricultural Transformation

    KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government has officially launched the 2025 Agro Inputs Fair, a five-day event aimed at enhancing food security, supporting farmers, and transforming the agricultural sector. The initiative, organized by the Kwara Agricultural Development Project (KWADP) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, provides early access to high-quality inputs at affordable prices, mechanization support, training, climate advisory, and market linkages.

    Speaking at the event, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, emphasized the importance of agricultural innovation and knowledge-sharing in improving food production. He stated that the fair is not just about distributing agricultural inputs but about driving innovation, fostering knowledge exchange, and providing solutions that will significantly enhance agricultural productivity. He reaffirmed that Kwara is not merely participating in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation but is leading the charge, with a clear goal of achieving greater yields, lower food prices, and a thriving, self-sufficient agricultural economy.

    The Governor recalled that Kwara recorded the lowest food inflation rate in the country for three consecutive months last year, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). He attributed this achievement to his administration’s strategic policies and investments in agriculture, praising local farmers for their dedication in complementing government efforts to improve food production and security.

    The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, noted that the Agro Inputs Fair is designed to equip farmers with the necessary tools, knowledge, and resources to maximize their productivity and profitability. She emphasized that the government remains committed to strengthening the agricultural sector through mechanization, the provision of extension services, distribution of inputs, ensuring the availability of tractors for local governments, and providing support for dry-season farming.

    She further highlighted that beyond offering discounted fertilizers, seeds, and agrochemicals, the fair would provide practical workshops on modern farming techniques, pest control, and post-harvest management. She added that farmers will also benefit from NiMET’s climate advisory, security insights to protect their investments, and market expansion opportunities through the outgrowers scheme. She urged all participants to take full advantage of these initiatives to improve their farming operations and productivity.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Funke Sokoya, encouraged attendees to leverage the available opportunities and apply the knowledge gained to enhance their agricultural practices. She noted that the fair is a significant step towards ensuring that farmers are well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern agriculture and contribute to the overall development of the state’s economy.

    The Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Umar Mahmud Aboki, commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his administration’s unwavering support for farmers and its continuous efforts to advance the agricultural sector. He stated that the fair was proof of the government’s commitment to empowering farmers and creating an enabling environment for agricultural growth.

    Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers in attendance, the Elerin of Adanla, Oba Dr. David Oyerinola Adedunmoye, described the fair as a timely and impactful initiative that would contribute significantly to rural development and economic growth. He praised the government’s vision in ensuring that farmers have access to necessary inputs and support to enhance their livelihoods.

    The event was attended by key government officials, including Hon. Gideon Saba, Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture; Hon. Musa Kareem, House Member representing Patigi Constituency; Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu, Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development; Hon. Aliyu Kora Sabi, Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development; and Dr. Segun Ogunsola, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development. Local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and representatives of various farmers’ associations were also present at the event.

    With the launch of the 2025 Agro Inputs Fair, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to prioritize food security, agricultural sustainability, and economic empowerment for farmers across Kwara State. The fair is expected to have a lasting impact on the agricultural sector, further positioning Kwara as a leader in innovative and sustainable farming practices.

  • Kwara Government Creates Two New Ministries to Enhance Governance Efficiency

    Kwara Government Creates Two New Ministries to Enhance Governance Efficiency

    The Kwara State Executive Council has approved the creation of two new ministries as part of a major restructuring aimed at improving governance efficiency, enhancing coordination, and aligning with the state’s growing developmental priorities.

    The decision was made during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday morning, presided over by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, following a memorandum presented by the Acting Head of Service, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammed.

    As part of the restructuring, the Ministry of Livestock Development has been carved out of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. This move is intended to bolster food security, strengthen livestock farming across Kwara’s 16 local government areas, and address the challenges associated with large-scale livestock production. The new ministry will play a key role in supporting farmers, herders, processors, and distributors across the livestock value chain, ensuring a more specialized focus on livestock development.

    The council also approved the creation of the Ministry of Transportation, separating it from the Ministry of Works and Transport. This restructuring is designed to establish a well-organized transportation management system, ensuring efficient mobility for residents and optimizing the state’s expanding infrastructure network. As part of this reorganization, the Kwara State Road Traffic Management Agency (KWARTMA) will now be placed under the Ministry of Transportation instead of the Ministry of Works.

    With these adjustments, Kwara State now has 22 ministries, up from 20, further strengthening the Governor AbdulRazaq-led administration’s commitment to streamlining governance and improving public service delivery. The restructuring is expected to enhance the effectiveness of government operations and ensure better service delivery across key sectors.

  • TESCOM Adjusts Interview Schedule for Teaching Job Applicants

    TESCOM Adjusts Interview Schedule for Teaching Job Applicants

    #KwaraRising


    The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has adjusted the timetable for the ongoing screening and interview of applicants for teaching positions in public secondary schools across the state.

    According to an updated statement by TESCOM Press Secretary, Sam Onile, the interview, which began on Tuesday with applicants from Asa, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Oke Ero, will now follow a revised schedule for the remaining candidates.

    Under the new arrangement, all interview sessions will now hold exclusively at the KWASU International Conference Centre, including the session previously scheduled for Friday, February 28, 2025.

    Revised Interview Schedule
    Day 2 (February 26, 2025)

    Baruten – 150
    Edu – 601
    Patigi – 281
    Kaiama – 93
    Irepodun – 372
    Isin – 225
    Total: 1,722
    Day 3 (February 27, 2025)

    Ifelodun – 413
    Moro – 232
    Offa – 308
    Ekiti – 200
    Oyun – 231
    Total: 1,384
    Day 4 (February 28, 2025)

    Ilorin West – 1,310
    Non-Kwarans – 362
    Total: 1,672
    All applicants who have been invited for the interview are expected to adhere to the revised schedule and ensure their appearance at the designated venue.

    TESCOM reiterated its commitment to a fair and transparent recruitment process, urging candidates to arrive on time and bring along the required original documents for verification.

  • Kwara Government Urges Farmers to Adopt Climate-Smart Agriculture for Better Yields

    Kwara Government Urges Farmers to Adopt Climate-Smart Agriculture for Better Yields

    …Governor AbdulRazaq Prioritizes Sustainable Farming for Food Security and Economic Growth

    The Kwara State Government has once again called on farmers to embrace climate-smart agricultural technologies to improve productivity and mitigate losses caused by unpredictable weather patterns. This charge was given by the Project Coordinator of the Kwara Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Project, Engr. Dr. Busari Toyin Isiaka, during a workshop for Women’s Agricultural Cooperatives and Women’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on climate-smart agricultural practices. The event was held in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area as part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainable farming across the state.

    Dr. Busari emphasized that many of the losses suffered by farmers today result from noncompliance with modern, climate-adaptive agricultural techniques. He stated that the government is intensifying awareness campaigns to ensure that Kwara farmers adopt sustainable farming methods to avert losses and increase food production.

    He further explained that the timing of the workshop was strategic, as the planting season is fast approaching. “This initiative is a crucial part of the SAPZ program, and farmers must apply the knowledge gained here to boost their productivity,” he said.

    The SAPZ Coordinator also warned against environmentally harmful practices such as bush burning, overgrazing, and deforestation, which contribute to soil degradation, reduced crop yields, and climate change-related agricultural challenges.

    Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Mr. Femi Yusuf, commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his grassroots approach to governance and dedication to farmers’ welfare. He praised the administration’s commitment to gender inclusion in agriculture, noting that such initiatives empower women to play active roles in the state’s agricultural value chain.

    “The passion of this administration for inclusive and sustainable agriculture is commendable. Ifelodun Local Government is fully prepared to leverage this initiative to improve food security and economic development,” Yusuf stated.

    The resource person for the workshop, Mr. Gbadebo Elebiyo, advised farmers to adapt to changing weather patterns by using drought-resistant seeds and improving livestock breeds with local varieties. He stressed that climate change is altering traditional farming cycles, making it essential for farmers to embrace new techniques that ensure resilience and profitability.

    The workshop drew participation from key agricultural stakeholders, including Hon. Abdulganiyu Folabi Salahu, a member representing Omupo Constituency in the Kwara State House of Assembly, representatives of the Nigerian Association of Women in Agriculture (NAWIA), Mekunu Peoples Forum, and other agricultural groups.

    With this initiative, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to champion innovative agricultural solutions to boost food security, increase farmers’ earnings, and sustain Kwara’s agricultural economy. The SAPZ program remains a key pillar of this strategy, equipping farmers with the necessary tools to adapt to climate change and maximize productivity.

  • 5,928 Applicants Advance as Kwara TESCOM Releases Cutoff Marks.

    5,928 Applicants Advance as Kwara TESCOM Releases Cutoff Marks.

    … Interview Schedule for Teachers’ Recruitment

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has invited 5,928 applicants for interviews and screenings as part of the ongoing recruitment of 1,800 senior school teachers. The exercise, which follows the recently concluded Computer-Based Test (CBT), will take place from Tuesday, February 25, to Saturday, March 1, 2025.

    According to a statement released by TESCOM Press Secretary, Sam Onile, applicants can check their status on the recruitment portal to confirm their eligibility for the next phase.

    Cutoff Marks and Special Considerations
    TESCOM Chairman, Mallam Bello Taoheed, announced the cutoff scores for different categories of applicants, ensuring that qualified candidates from across the state are fairly represented:

    Non-STEM subjects:

    Kwara Indigenes: 60%
    Baruten, Isin, Oke Ero, and Patigi Indigenes: 50% (to encourage more applications from these areas)
    Non-Indigenes: 70%
    STEM Subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, Geography):

    All Kwara Indigenes: 50% (to accommodate the demand for STEM teachers across the state)
    Special Consideration:

    All 93 applicants from Kaiama Local Government Area automatically qualify for the interview.
    All 37 Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) who sat the CBT are also invited for the interview.
    Interview Schedule and Venues
    The interviews and screenings will take place at two designated venues:

    Tuesday – Thursday: KWASU International Conference Centre, Sango, Ilorin
    Friday – Saturday: Kwara State Banquet Hall
    Day-by-day schedule for the interviews:

    Day 1 (Feb 25) – Asa (186), Ilorin East (502), Ilorin South (205), Oke Ero (193) Total: 1,086
    Day 2 (Feb 26) – Baruten (150), Edu (601), Patigi (281), Kaiama (93) Total: 1,125
    Day 3 (Feb 27) – Ifelodun (413), Irepodun (372), Isin (225) Total: 1,070
    Day 4 (Feb 28) – Moro (232), Offa (308), Ekiti (200), Oyun (231), Non-Kwarans (362) Total: 1,336
    Day 5 (March 1) – Ilorin West (1,310)
    Required Documents and Drug Testing
    Applicants must attend the interview with original copies of their credentials, including:

    NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate
    Birth Certificate or Court Affidavit (dated no earlier than June 30, 2024)
    Shortlisted candidates will also undergo a mandatory drug test at NDLEA-approved centers before their final selection.

    “This is a highly competitive process, and only 1,800 applicants will be selected to join public senior secondary schools across Kwara State,” the statement added.

    The Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration continues to prioritize quality education and merit-based recruitment, ensuring that only the most qualified and competent teachers are engaged to shape the future of Kwara’s students.

  • Kwara TESCOM Conducts CBT for 9,459 Applicants, Releases Results Ahead of Interview Stage

    Kwara TESCOM Conducts CBT for 9,459 Applicants, Releases Results Ahead of Interview Stage

    The Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has successfully conducted a computer-based test (CBT) for 9,459 applicants seeking teaching positions in public secondary schools across the state. According to a release by the Press Secretary of TESCOM, Kwara State, Sam Onile, the examination took place across six centers in Ilorin, Offa, Oko, Patigi, and Lafiagi on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

    The CBT serves as the qualifying stage for the recruitment of 1,800 teachers, with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects and rural education. The hiring exercise aims to fill critical teaching gaps in secondary schools across Kwara.

    Reports indicate that applicants who selected Offa, Oko, and Patigi centers completed their exams earlier in the day, while the final batch in Lafiagi concluded their test later in the evening. Similarly, thousands of applicants at Unilorin, Kwara State College of Education (COED), and Ilorin West CBT Centers successfully wrote their exams in different batches.

    TESCOM Releases Results, Announces Next Steps

    Following the smooth conduct of the examination, TESCOM has released the CBT results, allowing applicants to check their scores on the official recruitment portal.

    TESCOM Chairman, Mallam Bello Taoheed, confirmed that 8,529 candidates completed the exam across the designated centers, while the remaining 930 applicants did not show up for the test. The breakdown of candidates per center is as follows:

    ● COED Ilorin – 2,891

    ● Ilorin West LGA – 1,991

    ● UNILORIN – 1,677

    ● Lafiagi – 812

    ● Offa – 586

    ● Oko – 297

    ● Patigi – 275

    “This is the first step after the exams. The Commission will soon release the cutoff marks, which will determine the candidates proceeding to the interview and screening stage,” Taoheed stated.

    He assured applicants that TESCOM would soon communicate further details regarding the next phase of the recruitment exercise, including interview schedules and additional selection criteria.

    With the completion of the CBT phase, the Kwara State Government remains committed to a transparent and merit-based recruitment process, ensuring that qualified teachers are selected to enhance the state’s public education system.

  • Ilorin Innovation Hub Set to Launch Transformative Programs for Tech and Entrepreneurship

    Ilorin Innovation Hub Set to Launch Transformative Programs for Tech and Entrepreneurship

    …As Governor AbdulRazaq relentless march on Innovation and Digital Growth in Kwara continues

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub is set to officially commence its programs, marking a significant milestone in Kwara State’s drive to foster technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The highly anticipated launch event will take place on:

    📅 Date: Thursday, 27th February 2025
    ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM
    📍 Venue: Ilorin Innovation Hub, Ahmadu Bello Way, GRA, Ilorin

    The event will unveil a series of transformative programs aimed at supporting startups, digital entrepreneurs, and tech-driven enterprises. It is expected to attract key stakeholders, industry professionals, policymakers, and members of the innovation ecosystem, further positioning Kwara as an emerging tech hub in Nigeria.

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub, a flagship initiative under the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration, is designed to serve as a catalyst for technological advancement, job creation, and digital empowerment in the state. By providing access to mentorship, training, funding opportunities, and cutting-edge resources, the hub is set to nurture the next generation of innovators and business leaders.

    As part of the preparations, attendees are encouraged to confirm their attendance by registering at https://forms.gle/YDUtZhTAZnm6auV5A

    With this launch, Kwara continues its journey toward becoming a center for digital innovation and entrepreneurship, reinforcing Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to economic diversification and technological progress.

  • Transforming Education: Kwara State’s New Vision for Primary Schools

    Transforming Education: Kwara State’s New Vision for Primary Schools

    …Governor AbdulRazaq’s Bold Steps in Educational Advancement

    The Kwara State Government has unveiled a groundbreaking prototype for future public primary school buildings, marking a significant step in Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s mission to revolutionize the education sector. As Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON continues to prioritize education through strategic leadership, recruitment of qualified educators, prompt salary payments, and substantial investment in infrastructure.

    A testament to his unwavering dedication is the construction of a three-storey modern primary school at Adeta in Ilorin West Local Government Area. Designed in line with the new prototype, this facility will provide an enhanced learning environment and improved amenities to benefit young learners across the state.

    The state-of-the-art school will feature:

    Administrative Facilities:

    Headmaster’s Office

    Deputy Headmaster’s Office

    Large Administrative Office

    General Office

    Sickbay

    Classrooms and Learning Spaces:

    15 Classrooms for Pre-Primary Pupils

    15 Classrooms for Lower Primary (Grades 1-3)

    15 Classrooms for Upper Primary (Grades 4-6)

    2 Science Laboratories

    2 Large Art Rooms

    2 Spacious Staff Rooms

    Library

    2 ICT Laboratories

    Additional Facilities:

    Expansive Outdoor Play Area

    Adequate Toilets

    Upon completion, these modern educational structures will rank among the best in Northern Nigeria, significantly enhancing the standard of public primary education in Kwara State.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has already rehabilitated and constructed thousands of public schools, reaffirming his commitment to sustainable educational development. His significant investments have yielded remarkable results, as Kwara students continue to excel in national and international competitions, including the prestigious annual presidential debate.

    With Governor AbdulRazaq’s continued dedication, the future of education in Kwara State remains bright, ensuring that every child has access to quality learning environments and opportunities for academic excellence.

  • Kwara Government Inspects Prototype Primary School Construction in Ilorin

    Kwara Government Inspects Prototype Primary School Construction in Ilorin

    … …Governor AbdulRazaq Prioritizes Education Infrastructure for Quality Learning

    The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to revitalizing the education sector with the inspection of the ongoing construction of a prototype primary school in Adeta, Ilorin West Local Government Area. The state-of-the-art facility, designed to provide a conducive learning environment, is set to become a model for primary education in Kwara.

    The three-storey building will feature modern learning conveniences, including a cooling system, fully equipped classrooms, water and electricity reticulation, alternative power sources such as generating sets and solar energy, digital boards, an e-library, and a well-structured playing ground to support both academic and extracurricular activities.

    During the inspection, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, emphasized the state government’s insistence on quality work and warned against any substandard execution of the project. He urged the contractor to adhere strictly to the agreed project timeline, ensuring that the facility is completed on schedule for the benefit of the people.

    Dr. Ogunsola assured the contractor of the state government’s willingness to provide necessary support to ensure the smooth execution of the project. He also pledged regular inspections to guarantee that the construction meets the high standards expected by the government.

    Accompanying the Commissioner on the inspection were Director of Building Services, Architect Bilyaminu Lawal; Director of Public Buildings and Works, Builder Femi Ibiyinka; and other officials from the ministry.

    The prototype school project is part of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration’s broader vision to enhance basic education infrastructure and provide young learners with the best possible learning environment, aligning with global best practices in primary education.

  • Kwara Expands Thursday Market to Boost Food Security and Access to Organic Produce

    Kwara Expands Thursday Market to Boost Food Security and Access to Organic Produce

    … Government Introduces Organic Vegetables, Staple Crops, and Subsidized Kwara Rice

    The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has announced the expansion of the Thursday Market, offering residents a wider variety of organic vegetables and essential food staples in addition to the already available fresh fish. This initiative is part of the state government’s continued efforts to enhance food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and support local farmers.

    According to the Honorable Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, Kwarans can now purchase Ewedu (Jute leaves), Soko (Lagos Spinach), Tete (African Spinach), and other leafy greens, all cultivated using organic farming methods at the Ministry of Agriculture. The vegetables are grown using water and waste from the Ministry’s Fish Hatchery, ensuring a natural and chemical-free production process.

    “Green, healthy, and organic Ewedu and Efo will now be available at our Thursday Fish Market,” said Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas. “It is also noteworthy that our vegetable farm has produced a high yield even at the peak of the dry season, reinforcing our advocacy for year-round planting as a cost-effective and sustainable practice.”

    Beyond vegetables, the Thursday Market now provides essential food staples, including yam, beans, maize, and sorghum. These staple crops were given back to the state government by farmers who had benefited from Kwara’s agricultural input and empowerment programs—a testament to the success of the government’s continued support for local farmers.

    Additionally, “Made in Kwara” rice is now available at the market at a subsidized rate, making it more affordable than prevailing market prices. This aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to food affordability and agricultural sustainability.

    With this expansion, the Thursday Market continues to evolve into a hub for fresh, locally grown, and organic produce, reinforcing Kwara’s position as a leader in sustainable agriculture. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this initiative by purchasing fresh fish, organic vegetables, staple crops, and premium-quality Kwara rice at competitive prices.