Kwara Rising

Category: News

  • Kwara State Government Invites Applications for Waste Management Services

    Kwara State Government Invites Applications for Waste Management Services

    The Kwara State Government, through its Ministry of Environment, has issued a public announcement inviting applications from reputable commercial and private waste management organizations, as well as interested members of the general public, to participate in the collection of waste from households, shops, and companies across the state. This initiative is part of the government’s effort to improve waste management and sanitation services by engaging qualified service providers.

    According to the Ministry, selected applicants will be required to work closely with the Kwara State Ministry of Environment and its agencies. Successful organizations will be assigned specific areas for waste collection and will be responsible for transporting the collected waste to government-approved dump sites. In return for their services, these organizations will collect an affordable fee from residents and businesses in their designated areas.

    To qualify, applicants must be incorporated by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and demonstrate financial capability, evidenced by a reference letter from a reputable Nigerian commercial bank. Additionally, applicants must be registered with the Kwara State Ministry of Environment and relevant professional bodies. They should also possess modern waste management vehicles capable of handling either solid or liquid waste, depending on the service required. A comprehensive waste management work plan for areas with a population of at least 500,000 people is also mandatory. Furthermore, applicants must have key personnel with the requisite knowledge and experience in waste management and propose a fee structure for collection, alongside an amount to be remitted to the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS).

    Interested organizations are required to submit their applications in a sealed envelope clearly marked “APPLICATION AS COMMERCIAL (PRIVATE) WASTE MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION.” All submissions must be delivered to the Honourable Commissioner, Kwara State Ministry of Environment, Ilorin, by no later than 12 noon on Monday, February 10, 2025. Applications must be written in English and signed by an authorized official.

    The Ministry of Environment emphasized that only companies meeting the stipulated eligibility criteria will be contacted. Those whose applications are not approved will not receive any official communication. The government also reminded prospective applicants that previous waste management companies’ engagements expired on December 31, 2024, following their disengagement by the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA).

  • Kwara State Acquires 5,000 Hectares for Livestock and Industrial Park Development

    Kwara State Acquires 5,000 Hectares for Livestock and Industrial Park Development

    The Kwara State government has made significant strides in its development agenda by acquiring 3,000 hectares of land in Malete, Moro Local Government Area, for livestock production. In addition, another 2,000 hectares have been secured for the construction of an Industrial Park along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso Road.

    This was disclosed by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KWGIS), Abdulkareem Sulyman, during an interview with LEADERSHIP in Ilorin on Monday. Sulyman revealed that the payment of compensation for the land in Malete has reached 70% completion, while the compensation process for the land along Ilorin-Ogbomoso Road is currently underway.

    KwaraRising can report that Sulyman also highlighted the progress on the Ilorin SmartCity project, with preliminary activities already completed on 19,000 hectares earmarked for the initiative. This project is part of the state’s broader vision to drive urban development and economic growth.

    The KWGIS Chairman noted that ongoing reforms, including the collation and harmonization of all land-related agencies and the transition from analogue to digital land operations, have significantly reduced bottlenecks and enhanced efficiency. These reforms have also curtailed the activities of land grabbers, ensuring smoother land administration in the state.

    “The success of my agency is tied to the visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who has ensured that all developmental activities align with the state’s master plan, promoting growth and rapid development,” Sulyman stated. He emphasized that the automation of land administration has not only streamlined processes but also boosted the state’s internally generated revenue.

    Sulyman clarified that the ongoing reclamation exercise of government setbacks around public offices and institutions is a federal government directive aimed at enhancing security across the country. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for its residents.

    With these strategic land acquisitions and reforms, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq continues to lay a solid foundation for Kwara State’s sustainable development and economic transformation.

  • Kwara State Government Drives Agricultural Transformation with Food Processing Initiatives

    Kwara State Government Drives Agricultural Transformation with Food Processing Initiatives

    The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has taken a systematic approach to developing the state as a major location for food processing and value chain addition. This vision was recently underlined when the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, paid a visit to the “I-Need Rice Mill” at Elerinjare Ibobo Community, facilitated by the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC). The visit highlighted the commitment of the state in changing the face of Kwara’s agricultural landscape through the promotion of local processing to reduce dependence on imported goods.

    During her visit, Mrs. Thomas commended the “I-Need Rice Mill” for playing a vital role in the elevation of Kwara State’s agricultural profile. According to her, the government is strategically focusing on processing goods in the state in order to add value, stimulate local economies, and create jobs. “We are building a new Kwara, one which not only produces but also processes and adds value to our agricultural commodities, particularly rice,” she said. The commissioner emphasized that the status of Kwara as the leading producer of rice puts the state in a position to dominate the area of processing, hence guaranteeing the locals’ benefitting from locally produced and processed food.

    Advancing Value Addition and Export Potential

    The Commissioner also flagged the huge successes recorded by the “I-Need Rice Mill,” which has a 100-ton rice polishing machine and produces more than 2,000 bags of rice every day. He said this was in consonance with the state’s goals of reducing post-harvest losses and enhancing livelihoods along the agricultural value chain. Mrs. Thomas extolled the commitment of the mill to gender inclusion, as it involves women in its workforce, in line with Governor AbdulRazaq’s vision for empowerment and gender equality.

    Mr. Tajudeen Olaoye from the NEPC praised the government’s advancements in agriculture and expressed the council’s dedication to promoting Kwara’s agricultural products for export. “Kwara State, under Governor AbdulRazaq, has made significant progress in farming, harvest, and food processing. Our goal is to support this progress, especially in rice processing, which holds great potential for national and global markets,” Olaoye noted.

    The Chairman of I-Need Agro-Allied Investment Ltd., Mr. Sodiq Ibrahim, praised the government and NEPC for unrelenting support, saying it would continue showing its mission to contribute to Kwara development. His Royal Majesty, Oba Tajudeen Bello—Olaitan II—Olusabi of Elerinjare Ibobo, also applauded the state government’s commitment in agricultural development, community building, and promised continued investment in his community.

    The facility tour, which includes the cassava processing unit, paddy rice storage, and rice processing plants, further explains the holistic approach by the government to ensure maximum exploitation of every aspect of the agricultural value chain. There is a new benchmark being set by Kwara State, away from raw material production and towards becoming the leading food processor and exporter in Nigeria—a move guaranteeing long-term economic growth and food security for the state.

  • Kwara LGAs Allocate N7.4 Billion ‘Signature Bonus’

    Kwara LGAs Allocate N7.4 Billion ‘Signature Bonus’

    …to Settle Gratuity Arrears and Execute Priority Projects

    In a commendable show of commitment to the welfare of retirees and the broader community, local government chairmen in Kwara State have pledged to use their recently received N7.43 billion ‘signature bonus’ from the Federation Account to settle gratuity arrears dating back to 2011 and fund essential projects across the state.

    Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi Danladi, Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Kwara State chapter, announced on Wednesday that N4 billion of the ‘signature bonus’ would be allocated towards clearing part of the outstanding gratuity arrears, which exceed N34 billion. This effort will provide much-needed relief to local government retirees who have been awaiting their entitlements for over a decade.

    “This payment will cover the 2011 gratuity obligations and more. The disbursement will be managed to ensure that all retirees with outstanding gratuities receive their share,” Hon. Danladi affirmed.

    Additionally, the remaining N3.36 billion will be invested in priority projects identified by each local government. These projects are expected to address pressing needs at the grassroots level, improving the quality of life for residents and fostering development within the communities.

    “This decision underscores our dedication to serving the grassroots, including our retirees who have dedicated their lives to the service of their local government areas,” Danladi stated, emphasizing the unanimous agreement reached during their recent meeting.

    This strategic allocation not only addresses long-standing financial obligations to retirees but also ensures that the local governments can continue to implement critical development projects that benefit the wider community.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Approves Immediate Distribution of Kwara State Security Identification Cards

    Governor AbdulRazaq Approves Immediate Distribution of Kwara State Security Identification Cards

    The Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has approved that the newly developed State Security Identification Cards (SSID Cards) be distributed with immediate effect. The revelation was made today by the Acting General Manager, Kwara State Resident Identification Agency, Mr. Tajudeen Jimoh, while briefing newsmen in Ilorin.

    Mr. Jimoh noted that the Residents Registration Exercise, inaugurated by Governor AbdulRazaq on July 29, 2024, has started yielding positive results as the agency has begun receiving the SSID Cards, adding that the Governor has ordered their immediate distribution to residents.

    “The distribution, which shall be in batches and free, will be simultaneously going on with the continuous registration of other categories of residents in Kwara State as scheduled,” Mr. Jimoh said. He emphasized the importance of the SSID Cards in line with the determination of the government to enhance better planning, economic growth, and social inclusion in the state.

    How to Collect SSID Cards and Guidelines for Retrieval

    The General Manager called on civil servants whose cards are ready to visit their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) from Monday, January 13, 2025, with any valid means of identification such as Staff ID, National ID Card, Voter’s Card, International Passport, or Driver’s License. He emphasized that collection by proxy will not be allowed.

    He also directed all staff of the State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, and the Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, in the sixteen Local Government Areas to report to their respective offices for the collection of the cards from Monday. The move is a demonstration of the commitment of the present administration to improving security and an effective identification of every resident in the State.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Champions Transparency with New Monthly Media Chat Initiative

    Governor AbdulRazaq Champions Transparency with New Monthly Media Chat Initiative

    The Kwara State Government has flagged off the 4th edition of its Quarterly Inter-Ministerial Media Chat, with a significant announcement about the launch of a Monthly Media Chat. This initiative is set to enhance regular engagement between the government and the public on its policies, programs, and activities.

    The announcement was made by the State Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, during a ceremony held at the conference room of the Kwara State Ministry of Finance in Ilorin.
    The two-day briefing is designed as a vital platform for fostering accountability and transparency, providing the public with comprehensive updates on the government’s activities.

    Hon. Olukoju emphasized the administration’s commitment to keeping the public informed, stating that the initiative underscores Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s dedication to open governance. She revealed that Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) would present detailed reports on their achievements over the last quarter of 2024.

    KwaraRising can report that the briefing will feature key presentations from the Special Assistant on Drug Abuse and the Senior Special Assistant on Community Development. These presentations reflect the government’s strategic focus on social welfare and grassroots engagement.

    “In our continuous efforts to bridge the information gap and deepen public engagement, the State Ministry of Communications will soon launch a Monthly Media Chat to further interact with the public on government activities and policies,” Hon. Olukoju explained. She assured that more details would be shared with the press in the near future.

    The Commissioner commended the MDAs for their dedication and urged them to deliver impactful presentations. She also lauded the media professionals for their crucial role in disseminating timely and accurate information, calling on all participants to use the platform to strengthen public trust and demonstrate their commitment to the development of Kwara State.

    Speaking on the new initiative, Hon. Olukoju explained, “In our continuous efforts to bridge the information gap and deepen public engagement, the State Ministry of Communications will soon launch a Monthly Media Chat to discuss further and interact with the public on government activities and policies. Further details will be shared with members of the press in no distant future.”

    With this new initiative, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq continues to set a high standard for transparency and public engagement, reinforcing his administration’s focus on building a more inclusive and informed Kwara State.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Launches Major Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security in Kwara State

    Governor AbdulRazaq Launches Major Agricultural Initiative to Boost Food Security in Kwara State

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has launched a significant agricultural intervention aimed at enhancing food production and ensuring access to nutritious food across Kwara State. Under the Livestock Productivity and Resilient Support Project (L-PRES), the Governor distributed 100 motorcycles and 5,000 enzymes to agricultural extension agents and livestock farmers. This initiative underscores his administration’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector and achieving food security for the state’s residents.

    In addition to the distribution of motorcycles and enzymes, Governor AbdulRazaq also presented a Toyota Hilux to the Department of Livestock Services within the State Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. This vehicle will improve the mobility of field officers, enabling them to deliver timely support and services to farmers more effectively. Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Mamman Jibril emphasized that this initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to reposition agriculture for sustainable growth.

    The Governor highlighted that this distribution is part of a broader strategy to address the challenges facing livestock farmers. His administration has been proactive in constructing and rehabilitating boreholes along livestock routes, fitted with troughs to meet the water needs of both livestock and herders. This effort aims to mitigate farmers-herders conflicts and foster peaceful coexistence.

    Furthermore, Governor AbdulRazaq outlined other critical interventions, including the training of 700 extension agents and farmers on small ruminant production and feed processing. These trainings are designed to equip farmers with essential knowledge and skills in livestock management to enhance productivity. The state also recently launched a mass vaccination campaign against anthrax across all 16 local government areas to safeguard the health of livestock.

    During the event, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude for the support from key partners such as the World Bank, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Islamic Development Bank, and the African Development Bank. He acknowledged that these collaborations have been crucial in achieving the objectives of the L-PRES project and the broader agricultural interventions.

    Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, praised the Governor for his sustained investment in the sector. She emphasized the pivotal role of extension agents in providing on-the-ground support to farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices to improve food security.

    State Project Coordinator of L-PRES, Mr. Olusoji Oyawoye, highlighted the importance of this initiative in enhancing the capabilities of extension agents, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. This move ensures that innovative agricultural services can reach more farmers, ultimately boosting productivity and food security throughout the state.

  • Governor Abdulrazaq Embarks on Another Round of Repairs for Poorly Built Diamond Underpass

    Governor Abdulrazaq Embarks on Another Round of Repairs for Poorly Built Diamond Underpass

    … Video attached

    The Kwara State government, under the leadership of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, CON, has initiated yet another round of repair work on the poorly constructed Diamond Underpass Flyover along the Ilorin Airport road. This project, originally built during former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed’s administration, has required repeated attention due to structural deficiencies.

    KwaraRising can report that this is not the first or even the second time Governor Abdulrazaq’s administration has had to rehabilitate the N3.7 billion underpass flyover. Cracks have been observed in several portions of the structure, prompting ongoing repair efforts.

    The flyover was initially designed to alleviate traffic congestion at the bustling Airport, Garin Alimi, and Olorunsogo axis of Ilorin. However, KwaraRising can confirm that signs of poor execution became evident in 2019, when a significant portion of the structure collapsed just weeks after its commissioning.

    The current rehabilitation of the Diamond Underpass is part of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s continued efforts to address poorly executed projects inherited from the previous administration of the Kwara People’s Democratic Party (PDP). KwaraRising can report that these efforts are aimed at ensuring the safety and convenience of the people of Kwara State.

  • Governor AbdulRahman’s Ambitious Projects Redefine Ilorin’s Landscape, Earning Widespread Praise from Residents and Visitors Alike

    Governor AbdulRahman’s Ambitious Projects Redefine Ilorin’s Landscape, Earning Widespread Praise from Residents and Visitors Alike

    Over a year ago, the Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, flagged off a gigantic urban renewal project in the Ilorin metropolis—a development that raised eyebrows among the populace, especially those whose properties were affected. These properties, many of which were built in contravention of environmental laws, had been ignored by past administrations, hence an unbridled urban sprawl ensued. But this administration was resolved to redevelop the city and went ahead, signaling an end to business as usual.

    The urban renewal programme has since transformed areas like the Post Office, once a chaotic hub of hawkers, into a model of neatness and infrastructure. There have been major upgrades in the Challenge area, Ajase-Ipo road, and Taiwo road, including a new overhead bridge that has eased traffic congestion. The beautification and reconstruction of the inner roads have equally left the residents and visitors in awe of the metamorphosis of Ilorin, with many expressing amazement at visible changes during the festive season.

    Citizens and Visitors Laud Ilorin’s Transformation

    Visitors and residents have alike lauded the impressive infrastructure developments. Faith Awofadeju from Kano commended the improved road networks; Abiodun Babatunde from Ibadan expressed his amazement at the transformation of the Post Office area, saying new rules must be put in place to keep things in order; Engr. Onoja Olushola acknowledged the progress but urged the completion of the ongoing projects. Adebisi Sunday from Lagos also commended the government’s efforts despite economic challenges, appealing to motorists to be safety-conscious on the roads and the administration to continue the development drive.

    Other visitors, like Femi Raphael from Abuja, noted the economic potential of the transformation and how it has changed the lives of citizens positively. Oyinloye Alex, from Port Harcourt, lauded the construction of new roads and flyovers but emphasized the need for their maintenance to ensure the sustenance of modernization in the city. The State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, assured the people that the government is committed to inclusive development, with so many road projects going on in different parts of the state.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s Vision for Kwara’s Future

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has reiterated his administration’s determination to transform Kwara at the 59th National Conference of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union, IEDPU, saying such projects as Ilorin Smart City and State University of Education did not only show an intention to build but also an intent to develop economically. He said with those monumental projects, Ilorin is now in the league of major capital cities in Nigeria.

    The president of IEDPU, Dr. Alagbonsi, also praised the administration and called for more expansion to benefit Ilorin and the state at large. In line with this, from 2023, more than 190 projects were flagged off and are ongoing; the trend is that of long-term development by the administration. Citizens and visitors in the city, seeing its magnanimous transformation, hope that these steps will continue to attract another dimension of growth and development for Kwara State.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Addresses Water Shortage: Otte-Oja and Omu Aran Water Facilities Scheduled for Overhaul

    Governor AbdulRazaq Addresses Water Shortage: Otte-Oja and Omu Aran Water Facilities Scheduled for Overhaul

    In a major move to tackle water supply issues in Kwara State, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has sanctioned the reconstruction and restoration of the Otte-Oja/Budo Egba and Omu-Aran Waterworks.

    The projects were formally assigned to AEVIN Nigeria Limited and DELKO International Contractors for prompt implementation.

    The Commissioner for Water Resources, Hon. Usman Yunusa Lade, conducted the official handover at both locations on Tuesday, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to enhancing access to clean water in underprivileged communities.

    A Safety Net for Otte-Oja and Budo Egba Neighborhoods

    At the Otte-Oja/Budo Egba location, Hon. Lade disclosed that the initiative encompasses the drilling of six solar-powered industrial boreholes and the setup of extra fetching points to guarantee wider access to clean water.

    He additionally revealed intentions to offer a backup generator as an alternative energy option, ensuring a continuous water supply.

    To protect the facility, the government plans to build a perimeter fence, responding to earlier issues with vandalism that rendered the old water system inoperable.

    Lade praised the strength of the Otte-Oja/Budo Egba communities and encouraged them to collaborate with contractors for on-time and high-quality results.

    Revamping Omu-Aran’s Water System

    At the Omu-Aran Waterworks, the Commissioner described the work involved, such as dredging the reservoir, setting up low-lift and high-lift pumps, cleaning clarifiers, and laying pipelines to enhance water distribution.

    More fetching points will be built to accommodate additional residents.
    In his speech, Lade assured the community of the administration’s dedication to delivering sustainable water solutions, seeking patience and support while the contractors develop the facility.

    Hon. Yunusa Oniboki, Chair of the State House of Assembly Water Resources Committee, recounted the enduring challenges faced by the Otte Oja/Budo Egba communities regarding water shortages.

    He commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his proactive leadership and prompt endorsement of the initiative, which aims to ease the difficulties faced by residents.
    Leaders in the community, such as the Chairman of the Otte-Oja Descendants Union, Alh. Saka Omowale and Alhaji Akanbi Egba, the Vice Chairman of Budo Egba Community, conveyed their appreciation to the Governor for the initiative.

    In the same vein, Chief Lawrence Adeboye, speaking for the Olomu of Omu-Aran, commended the Governor’s quick action regarding the town’s water issue, while urging for improved security measures to safeguard the restored facility.

    A Dedication to Quality Service

    Contractors AEVIN Nigeria Limited and DELKO International committed to providing high-quality projects according to specifications. Engineer. Musa Surajudeen and Alh. Mohammed Salihu Kolawole expressed gratitude to the state government for granting them the duty of serving the state in this important role.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s endorsement of these groundbreaking initiatives underscores his administration’s commitment to enhancing living standards and promoting fair development throughout Kwara State.

    By tackling water shortages in these vital communities, his leadership is helping to create a brighter and healthier future for all inhabitants.