Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Friday night accompanied Christian pilgrims from the state to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, to bid them farewell ahead of their journey to Jordan and Israel.
The visit, a routine gesture by the Governor, underscores his commitment to religious harmony and inclusivity in Kwara State. He interacted warmly with the pilgrims, exchanging pleasantries and receiving commendations for his humility and impactful governance across various sectors.
Addressing the intending pilgrims, Governor AbdulRazaq urged them to be good ambassadors of Kwara State and Nigeria, encouraging them to uphold discipline and integrity throughout their journey. His presence was met with enthusiastic applause, as the pilgrims expressed gratitude and offered prayers for his continued success in office.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), Bishop (Prof) Stephen Adegbite, lauded the Governor’s unwavering support for Christian programmes and initiatives, both in Kwara State and across the country.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Kwara State Christian Pilgrims’ Welfare Board, Prof. Timothy Opoola, thanked the Governor for his benevolence and commitment to ensuring a smooth pilgrimage exercise. He also advised the pilgrims to adhere strictly to the regulations of their host countries and pilgrimage authorities.
The Christian pilgrims departed for Jordan at 10:45 p.m. on Friday night, carrying with them prayers and well-wishes from the Governor and the people of Kwara State.
… Hands Over Kampe Game Reserve to Federal Government
#KwaraRising
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday inaugurated a steering committee to oversee the transfer of the Kampe Game Reserve to the Federal Government as a National Park.
The Governor also officially handed over the reserve, located in Patigi Local Government Area, to the Federal Government, following the presidential declaration of November 2020 and the subsequent passage by the National Assembly.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Ilorin, the Governor described the move as a significant step toward improving environmental conservation and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources.
“Today marks a crucial moment in our collective efforts. The inauguration of the Steering Committee is a fulfillment of the Federal Government’s roadmap for the transformation of the Kampe Game Reserve into a National Park,” the Governor said.
The committee, which consists of cabinet members, traditional leaders, and other senior citizens, has been tasked with guiding the transition process, bringing their expertise and experience to ensure a smooth and successful handover.
“Our commitment to this initiative stems from our desire to offer Kwara State greater opportunities for growth and development,” the Governor stated, as represented by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi.
“We aim to position our state on the global map for biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and the effective management of our natural and human resources.
“The Kampe Game Reserve, named after the Kampe River, is one of Kwara State’s natural treasures. It is a gift of nature, and we have a duty to preserve and enhance it for the benefit of future generations.”
Governor AbdulRazaq congratulated the committee members and encouraged them to actively contribute to the conservation of the Kampe National Park, ensuring it plays a key role in promoting sustainability for Nigeria’s future.
… Governor gets commendation for continued support
#KwaraRising
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved the recruitment of more staff to improve the quality of education and enhance security in public schools across the state. The Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) announced that the recruitment will focus on senior secondary schools, particularly in rural areas where there is a shortage of teachers.
TESCOM Chairman, Mallam Bello Tauheed Abubakar, stated that all applications must be submitted online, and only candidates who meet the required qualifications will be considered. Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Education, a Bachelor of Science or Arts degree with a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, or a National Certificate in Education. Those who do not meet these requirements will not be invited for the test.
To ensure fairness and transparency, applicants must provide proof of their local government of origin and residence at different stages of the process. The recruitment process will include a Computer-Based Test, after which shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews and peer teaching (practicum) at designated centers. The cutoff mark for the test will be determined after its completion.
In line with the state government’s commitment to combating drug abuse, all shortlisted applicants will undergo a mandatory drug test. This measure is aimed at ensuring that only individuals who meet high ethical and professional standards are employed in the education sector. The government has also set a maximum age limit of 35 years as of January 31, 2025, for applicants. Candidates whose behavior does not align with the expectations of a teacher and mentor will be disqualified at any stage of the process.
TESCOM has commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his continuous investment in education and his commitment to strengthening the public school system. The commission emphasized that this recruitment is another step toward improving learning outcomes and addressing the human resource gap in schools.
The application portal will be open from February 5 to February 14, 2025, at www.tescom.kwarastate.gov
Kwara State has been ranked as the best-performing state in Nigeria for counterpart funding payment under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). The ranking was announced on Monday in Abuja during the 8th RAAMP Implementation Support Mission, an annual assessment of participating states to review progress and set the agenda for the new year.
Reacting to the recognition, the Kwara State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, described it as a testament to the unwavering commitment of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to equitable development and infrastructural transformation.
“This is a big win for our state. It reflects His Excellency’s dedication to ensuring sustainable development and modernizing rural infrastructure,” Olododo stated. “At the session, states were assessed and awarded in different categories, and Kwara emerged victorious in two key areas. First, we were ranked overall best in counterpart funding payment among the 19 participating states, meaning that no state contributed more counterpart funding to the program than Kwara.
“Additionally, we won the award for overall disbursement, leading the 13 states in our category in terms of funds accessed from the World Bank and the French Development Agency (AFD). This achievement directly translates to real infrastructure development, as evidenced by the ongoing construction of 209.77km of rural roads across the state,” he added.
These awards reaffirm Kwara State’s commitment to rural development and improved agricultural marketing, positioning it as a model for other states in the country.
As part of the ongoing urban renewal project, the Kwara State Government has set up a Task Force on Advertising and Signage Restructuring to enhance the state’s aesthetics and standardize outdoor advertising within and outside the metropolis. The Committee Chairperson and Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, announced this in Ilorin today while inaugurating the committee at the ministry’s conference hall. She emphasized that the initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to modernizing Kwara, improving public safety, and ensuring compliance with global best practices in advertising.
Olukoju stated that the task force will oversee a structured enforcement of advertising and signage regulations, starting with the removal of unauthorized billboards, posters, and light pole banners in Ilorin metropolis before extending to other parts of the state. Following the inauguration, the task force held its inaugural meeting, where Hon. Olukoju reaffirmed the government’s dedication to stakeholder engagement, assuring that consultations would continue as the restructuring process unfolds.
The commissioner outlined the key responsibilities of the task force, which include identifying and removing unauthorized and improperly erected billboards and advertisement structures, engaging stakeholders within the advertising and outdoor media sectors to ensure compliance, and developing a sustainable framework to prevent future violations. She noted that the task force comprises representatives from key government agencies and the private sector, including the General Manager of the Kwara State Signage and Advertisement Agency, officials from the Ministry of Environment and the Road Traffic Management Authority (KWARTMA), as well as representatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Nigerian Police Force, and AKOT Prints, with a senior administrative officer from the Ministry of Communications serving as the Secretary.
Hon. Olukoju further disclosed that there will be no registration or renewal of billboard licenses until further notice, as the state finalizes a new regulatory framework. In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Yahaya Muhammed, assured the public that all enforcement activities will be conducted professionally and in the best interest of Kwara’s development.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to push forward with policies aimed at enhancing urban planning, economic growth, and public safety. This latest initiative underscores the state government’s commitment to maintaining an organized and visually appealing environment that supports business growth while preserving the beauty of Kwara.
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.
