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.
… Emir of Shonga praises Governor’s swift response
A high-powered delegation from the Kwara State Government has visited Shonga in Edu Local Government Area to investigate the cause of the recent flooding that devastated rice plantations in the community. The delegation, led by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Princess Bukola Babalola, also delivered relief materials to affected farmers who have lost significant portions of their farmlands to the disaster.
The flooding, which submerged vast rice fields, has dealt a severe blow to local farmers, many of whom depend on the plantations for their livelihoods. The Kwara State Government has expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as a setback to the state’s agricultural sector.
During the visit, the delegation met with the Emir of Shonga, His Royal Highness Dr. Haliru Yahyah Ndanusa (OON), who commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his prompt action in setting up the investigative committee. The Emir urged the government to conduct a thorough probe to determine the cause of the flooding and implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
The committee, which includes the Commissioners for Agriculture, Water Resources, and Environment, as well as officials from the Kwara State Emergency Management Agency, is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to the governor soon.
Governor AbdulRazaq reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting affected farmers and ensuring the sustainability of rice production in the state. He also assured the community of the government’s readiness to provide necessary assistance to mitigate the impact of the flooding.
The delegation’s visit and the distribution of relief materials have been welcomed by the Shonga community, with many expressing hope that the government’s intervention will help them recover from the losses incurred.
The Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), a prominent sociocultural organization representing the people of Ilorin Emirate, has expressed its appreciation for the unwavering support of the Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON.
The Union’s National President, Alhaji Abdulmumini Ayo Abdulmalik, made this commendation on Thursday while acknowledging the Governor’s fulfillment of his financial pledge towards the completion of the Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Skills Acquisition Centre in Ilorin.
Alhaji Abdulmalik described the gesture as a demonstration of the Governor’s commitment to the state’s transformation. He highlighted that Governor AbdulRazaq had previously extended similar support to ongoing community projects in Shonga, Edu Local Government Area, and Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area.
“The release of these funds and other initiatives by Mallam AbdulRazaq affirm his patriotism and dedication to the development of Kwara State,” Abdulmalik stated. He further noted that the Governor has consistently supported the Union, both before and since assuming office in 2019.
The President assured the Governor and the people of Ilorin Emirate that the Union would ensure the funds are used judiciously, with the aim of completing and commissioning the Skills Acquisition Centre within six months.
The Union remains committed to fostering development and supporting initiatives that enhance the welfare of the Ilorin Emirate community.
The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, has commenced the training of enumerators for its highly anticipated mega empowerment initiative. The program kicked off Thursday, January 23, 2025, in Ilorin, the state capital.
In a statement issued to the press, Princess Bukola Babalola, Deputy Chief of Staff and Chairperson of the Empowerment Committee, confirmed the development, highlighting the administration’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency.
Announced towards the end of 2024, the mega empowerment initiative is designed to support Kwarans from all walks of life, with beneficiaries selected irrespective of political affiliations.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has earned widespread recognition for its impactful empowerment programs, including the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP), which has significantly uplifted youths and traders across the state.
The forthcoming mega empowerment is expected to set a new standard, reinforcing the administration’s dedication to improving the livelihoods of Kwarans.
“This empowerment initiative reflects the Governor’s resolve to build a prosperous Kwara where opportunities are accessible to all,” Princess Babalola said.
… to Strengthen Food Security and Farmer Empowerment
The Kwara State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has unveiled the “Thursday Fish Market” initiative aimed at promoting agriculture, empowering local fish farmers, and providing residents with affordable seafood options.
Located at the ministry’s premises in Ilorin, the state capital, the market will operate every Thursday, offering a diverse range of fresh and processed fish, including catfish, tilapia, and croaker, all at competitive prices.
This initiative was announced in a statement released by the ministry’s Press Secretary, Omotola Ashaolu, on Wednesday.
At the inaugural event, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, explained the significance of the project, emphasizing its dual focus on ensuring food security and supporting the livelihoods of fish farmers across the state.
“Fish breeders can also purchase fingerlings, juvenile catfish, fish feeds, and medications. Additionally, consultancy services will be available to guide both new and experienced fish farmers in areas like fish farming and processing, fostering growth across the entire fish value chain,” the Commissioner stated.
The Director of Fisheries in the ministry, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Ajayi, hailed the market as a groundbreaking initiative, describing it as the first of its kind in Nigeria. “The uniqueness of our Thursday Fish Market lies in its focus on quality, affordability, and the longevity of products’ shelf life,” she noted.
The market has already garnered positive reactions from customers and vendors.
A customer, Mrs. Faoziyah Abdulazeez, expressed her satisfaction with the affordability of the products, noting that prices were more competitive than in other markets. She encouraged the government to expand the model to include other commodities.
Similarly, a vendor, Mrs. Yemisi Oluwole, applauded the state government for creating a platform that has significantly enhanced trade and increased the visibility of local fish products, which are now gaining traction both within and beyond Kwara State.
In its statement, the ministry reassured the public of an all-season supply of fresh and smoked fish, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to improving food security and empowering local farmers.
… “Those Against Governor’s Giant Strides Are Wasting Their Time,” Says Emir
The Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, has dismissed false reports alleging a rift between him and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON.
The revered monarch clarified that such claims were baseless fabrications by those attempting to use the palace and the rich heritage of Ilorin Emirate to undermine the governor’s achievements.
Speaking during a visit by Dr. Muhammad Ghali Alaaya, a non-executive Member of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), the Emir reaffirmed his commitment to peace, unity, and progress in Kwara State.
“You’re all my children, regardless of your positions, except those who do not mean well for this progressing Emirate and Kwara State,” the Emir declared. “Tell Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to remain focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people. He shouldn’t allow those who want to use this enviable heritage and my palace to cause confusion, to distract him. God will protect all of you, and I will continue to pray for your growth.”
The Emir further praised the giant strides of the AbdulRazaq administration and prayed for continued growth and success for Dr. Alaaya and other indigenes of Ilorin Emirate who are contributing to the state’s development under the governor’s leadership.
The political atmosphere in Kwara has been tense in recent weeks, with some politicians attempting to rehash the divisive “Lawal Doesn’t Like the Emir of Ilorin” narrative from 2002 to sow discord. These tactics, aimed at misleading the people of Kwara, particularly Ilorin indigenes, have been met with firm resistance.
In response, the Emir’s palace quickly set the record straight, affirming that there is no rift between Dr. Sulu-Gambari and Governor AbdulRazaq. On the contrary, the two leaders share a warm and cordial relationship centered on the progress of Kwara State.
Emir’s Call for Unity and Progress
The Emir reiterated his call for unity among all sons and daughters of Ilorin Emirate, urging them to rally behind Governor AbdulRazaq as he continues his transformative work across the state.
“Those against Governor AbdulRazaq’s giant strides are only wasting their time,” the Emir said, emphasizing the importance of harmony and collaboration for the state’s collective prosperity.
The statement has further solidified the Emir’s position as a custodian of peace and development in Kwara State, sending a clear message to detractors while reaffirming his unwavering support for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
