Kwara Rising

Category: News

  • Kwara Introduces Weekly Fish Market

    Kwara Introduces Weekly Fish Market

    … 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.

  • Emir of Ilorin Debunks Rumors, Declares Unwavering Support for Governor AbdulRazaq

    Emir of Ilorin Debunks Rumors, Declares Unwavering Support for Governor AbdulRazaq

    … “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.

  • Kwara South Leaders Laud Governor AbdulRazaq’s Achievements, Pledge to Follow His Direction in 2027

    Kwara South Leaders Laud Governor AbdulRazaq’s Achievements, Pledge to Follow His Direction in 2027

    Leaders from across the Kwara South Senatorial District convened over the weekend in Lagos to deliberate on the socio-economic and political progress of the region. The meeting, held under the banner of the Kwara South Development Initiative (KSDI), was marked by widespread commendation of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, with attendees affirming that his administration has outperformed all predecessors since 1999 in advancing the region’s development.

    The summit, hosted at Eko Hotel, marked the fourth gathering organized by KSDI to foster unity and refocus developmental goals within Kwara South. The first two summits were held in Oko, with the third taking place in Abuja.

    In his opening address, Dr. Johnson Adewunmi, Convener of KSDI and Founder of Thomas Adewunmi University, called on Kwara South indigenes to rally together and commit to the region’s growth. He praised Governor AbdulRazaq for his remarkable contributions to infrastructural development in Kwara South and across the state, urging citizens to return home and invest in their communities.

    Dr. Adewunmi presented a paper on the socio-economic development of Kwara South, highlighting the importance of small and medium-scale industries and cooperative societies. He emphasized that these initiatives, led by KSDI, are critical for the district’s economic advancement.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq delivered a goodwill message virtually, commending the summit’s theme as both relevant and timely. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting KSDI and urged Kwara South leaders to maintain unity and work collectively towards the state’s development.

    The Deputy Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Ojo Oyebode Olayiwola, echoed these sentiments, encouraging Kwara indigenes in Lagos to collaborate with their counterparts at home for the district’s progress. He lauded Dr. Adewunmi’s leadership and sustained investment in the region’s education, health, and economic sectors.

    Hon. Benjamin Jolayemi, Chairman of Isin Local Government, presented the achievements of local government chairmen within their first 100 days in office, further demonstrating the administration’s dedication to grassroots development.

    The forum also recognized Governor AbdulRazaq’s notable infrastructural achievements, including the completion and commissioning of the Kwara State University (Osi Campus) and various road projects. These projects, which have transformed the region’s connectivity and accessibility, include roads in Omu-Aran, Oko, Oro Ago, Oro, Esie, Agbonda, Arandun, and others spanning multiple local government areas.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration received accolades for addressing long-standing infrastructural challenges, particularly with the Osi-Obbo Aiyegunle road, which had been neglected for over five decades.

    In a significant development, the leaders pledged to align with Governor AbdulRazaq’s vision and direction for the state, reaffirming their support as the 2027 elections approach. The summit concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to foster unity and collaboration, ensuring continued progress and prosperity for Kwara South.

  • AASSG to Host Inaugural Colloquium Celebrating Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq

    AASSG to Host Inaugural Colloquium Celebrating Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq

    … To Inspire Future Leaders and Highlight Positive Changes in Kwara State’s Governance

    The AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Students Support Group (AASSG) has officially announced the launch of the 1st AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Leadership Colloquium, an event dedicated to celebrating the exemplary leadership of Kwara State Governor, His Excellency AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

    The event is scheduled to take place on February 5, 2025, at the Kwara State Banquet Hall in Ilorin, according to a statement released by the group’s acting coordinator, Comrade Hassan Muhammed Awwal.

    This flagship event aims to serve as a comprehensive platform for discussing the leadership style, achievements, and governance philosophy of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The colloquium will delve into his impactful contributions to Kwara State, which have shaped the state’s governance and brought about significant socio-economic development since he took office in 2019.

    “The colloquium is an opportunity to reflect on Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s transformative leadership, which has positively impacted Kwara State. We aim to inspire a new generation of leaders and encourage dialogue on governance, leadership, and sustainable development,” Awwal said in the statement. “This event will highlight the governor’s approach to governance, good leadership practices, and his initiatives that have fostered growth and social development.”

    The colloquium will feature a series of keynote addresses, discussions, and interactive sessions centered on various themes, including leadership, governance, youth and women’s inclusion in political processes, social intervention programs, and community development. Attendees will have the chance to engage in these sessions, gaining valuable insights into the governor’s strategies and leadership principles.

    To ensure the event’s success, the AASSG has partnered with the Association of Local Governments in Nigeria (ALGON), Kwara State Chapter. This collaboration is expected to bring together a wide range of stakeholders from the political, academic, and traditional sectors. Lawmakers, traditional rulers, academic scholars, and other key figures from across Kwara State are anticipated to attend the event.

    The leadership colloquium is not just a tribute to the governor’s achievements, but also a call for continued progress and development. By examining the intersection of leadership, governance, and sustainable growth, the event aims to foster meaningful dialogue and inspire both young and seasoned leaders to adopt the best practices in governance that have been demonstrated by AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

    “The event will offer a chance to explore the successes and challenges faced by the governor in his pursuit of good governance and social justice,” Awwal added. “We are confident that this colloquium will serve as an educational and motivational platform for all those in attendance.”

    With a focus on promoting good governance and social cohesion, the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Leadership Colloquium is expected to leave a lasting impact on both the participants and the wider community. The AASSG hopes that the event will spark conversations that will shape future leadership initiatives and governance strategies in Kwara State and beyond.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Facelift Healthcare in Kwara

    Governor AbdulRazaq Facelift Healthcare in Kwara

    … State Hospitals Get Solar Power and Modern Equipment

    The Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming healthcare delivery in the state. The administration has taken bold steps to ensure that state hospitals function optimally to save lives and enhance the quality of life for residents.

    This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary of the Kwara Hospital Management Board, Dr. Abdulraheem Malik, during his appearance on Kwara State Television’s popular program, Network Kwara.

    Dr. Malik highlighted that the state government has begun equipping hospitals with solar-powered lighting systems to address the persistent issue of epileptic power supply.

    This move aims to ensure uninterrupted operations, particularly during critical medical procedures, thereby enhancing service delivery and patient outcomes.

    Modern Equipment and Skilled Workforce

    According to Dr. Malik, the administration has provided modern and relevant medical equipment to hospitals, enabling them to deliver high-quality healthcare. Additionally, the Kwara Hospital Management Board has prioritized training and retraining healthcare workers to improve service delivery across the 46 secondary care hospitals in the state.

    “The state government is dedicated to equipping hospitals with the tools and knowledge needed to deliver better services to the people,” Dr. Malik said.
    Dr. Malik noted a significant improvement in public perception of government hospitals. “Government hospitals are now receiving commendations and recommendations from the public due to the noticeable enhancement in service quality, a stark contrast to the challenges faced before this administration,” he stated.

    In a bid to address patient concerns effectively, the administration has implemented SERVICOM (Service Compact with All Nigerians) across state hospitals.

    This platform allows patients to lodge complaints and receive assistance, even from the comfort of their homes.

    Hospital Renovations Underway

    Dr. Malik further revealed that the government has embarked on comprehensive renovations of state hospital facilities, with work currently ongoing in many of these locations.

    He concluded by commending Governor

    AbdulRazaq’s unwavering dedication to ensuring that healthcare services in the state align with global standards, driven by his administration’s love for humanity and commitment to saving lives.
    Through these initiatives, Governor AbdulRazaq continues to cement his legacy as a leader deeply invested in the health and wellbeing of Kwarans, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of quality healthcare.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Commended for Transforming Primary Healthcare in Kwara State

    Governor AbdulRazaq Commended for Transforming Primary Healthcare in Kwara State

    The AbdulRazaq-led administration’s focus on innovation, inclusivity, and quality care ensures a brighter and healthier future for all government-owned facilities, ensuring accessibility to residents in every corner of the state. Over 500 health facilities and more than 10,000 settlements have benefitted from various interventions aimed at improving health outcomes.

    This was revealed by Dr. Nusirat Elelu, Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency, during the 4th Quarter Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Ministry of Finance in Ilorin. Represented by Dr. Ayodeji Adeniran, Deputy Director of Primary Health Care Systems, Dr. Elelu emphasized the administration’s relentless efforts to enhance the quality of life through robust healthcare initiatives.

    Dr. Elelu highlighted the agency’s delivery of a wide range of services, including immunization, health education, nutritional promotion, safe water advocacy, sanitation, and maternal and child health services. These programs, delivered through fixed and outreach strategies, aim to reduce disease burdens and improve overall public health.

    Among the significant activities in 2024 were Zero-dose mapping to track immunized and partially immunized children, two rounds of Polio immunization, the Big Catch-Up campaign, and two optimized Maternal Newborn and Child Health Weeks (MNCHW). The agency also distributed folic acid supplements for pregnant women, organized food demonstrations at Primary Health Care Centres (PHCs), and held regular strategy meetings with local health workers to improve service delivery.

    Acknowledging Governor AbdulRazaq’s Leadership.
    Dr. Elelu praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his unwavering commitment to healthcare. “The Governor’s massive investments in the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency have ensured access to quality healthcare services for residents in all nooks and crannies of the state,” she said.

    This dedication has earned the agency recognition as the best in basic healthcare delivery across the North-Central region for the second consecutive time. The achievement underscores the administration’s focus on inclusivity and excellence in healthcare.

    The agency has prioritized health sensitization campaigns, strengthened collaborations with stakeholders, and maintained consistent communication with community leaders to support the vision of an inclusive healthcare system. These efforts are designed to enhance resources at health facilities and ensure that healthcare services meet the needs of the population.

    Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, the State Commissioner for Communications, described the Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing as a critical platform for fostering transparency and accountability. He explained that the briefing allows the public to stay informed about the government’s activities and achievements, promoting trust and engagement between the administration and the people.

    With Governor AbdulRazaq at the helm, Kwara State continues to lead in healthcare delivery, setting a benchmark for others to follow. His administration’s focus on innovation, inclusivity, and quality care ensures a brighter and healthier future for all Kwarans.

  • Kwara Education : Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq Approves Recruitment of 1,800 Teachers

    Kwara Education : Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq Approves Recruitment of 1,800 Teachers

    … Tescom’s Boss commends AbdulRahman’s continued investment in education

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, has approved the recruitment of 1,800 senior secondary school teachers, 100 non-teaching staff, and 200 security guards to enhance the safety and quality of education in schools across the state.

    The recruitment will particularly target rural areas, where there is a pressing shortage of teachers.

    In a statement issued by the Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Mallam Bello Tauheed Abubakar, it was announced that the application process will soon be made available online. Applicants will be required to possess a university degree in education or a degree in a relevant field with a teaching certificate, such as B.Ed, BSc. Ed, B.A. Ed, BSc plus PGDE, or NCE. Those without the specified qualifications will not be considered.

    The recruitment is aimed at addressing the human resource gap in rural schools, with a focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.

    Applicants in the Arts and Commercial fields will also be considered, and the relevant subject areas will be listed on the application portal. TESCOM has urged applicants whose subject areas are not specified not to apply.

    Further, all applicants will be required to upload their certificate of local government origin and provide proof of their local government of residence at different stages of the recruitment process. Additional requirements may be announced as the process progresses.

    After the online application, applicants will undergo a Computer-Based Test (CBT), with only those who meet the required standards being shortlisted for interviews and peer teaching sessions.

    In line with the state government’s commitment to fighting drug abuse, all shortlisted candidates will undergo mandatory drug tests.

    TESCOM also stated that applicants must not exceed 35 years of age by January 31, 2025. Any candidate who exhibits behavior unfit for a teacher will be disqualified at any stage of the recruitment process.

    The commission commended Governor Abdulrazaq for his continuous investment in public education since taking office in 2019, highlighting the Governor’s focus on improving educational standards across Kwara State.

  • 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.