Kwara Rising

Category: News

  • Kwara Cabinet Approves Dissolution of Harmony Holdings Over Financial Woes

    Kwara Cabinet Approves Dissolution of Harmony Holdings Over Financial Woes

    …Unprofitable Subsidiaries to Revert to Finance Ministry

    Kwara State Executive Council has ordered the winding down of Harmony Holdings and its subsidiaries following years of financial losses and mounting liabilities. The decision, reached during Tuesday’s cabinet meeting presided over by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, will see all public properties under the conglomerate returned to the Ministry of Finance Incorporated.

    Finance Commissioner Dr. Hauwa Nuru presented damning findings showing consistent losses across most subsidiaries since 2012, despite multiple government bailouts. Only Harmony Securities Limited remained profitable, while Harmony Transport Services, Harmony Insurance Brokers, and Harmony Investment and Property Development Company continued draining public resources.

    “Audited statements reveal these companies cannot meet short-term obligations, with quick ratios below the 1:1 industry standard,” Nuru disclosed. She noted repeated financial interventions failed to yield returns, prompting the recommendation for dissolution.

    The cabinet approved transferring assets to the Ministry of Finance Incorporated for more cost-effective management. The proposal now moves to the State House of Assembly for legislative ratification, alongside documentation of outstanding liabilities.

    This move concludes the state’s efforts to salvage the conglomerate after 13 years of operational deficits and marks a significant shift in Kwara’s public asset management strategy.

  • Kwara Reaffirms Staff Welfare Focus in Tertiary Education

    Kwara Reaffirms Staff Welfare Focus in Tertiary Education

    …Commissioner Vows Sustainable Development Amid Stakeholder Talks

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    Kwara State Government has restated its commitment to staff welfare and sustainable growth across state-owned tertiary institutions. Tertiary Education Commissioner Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo Kawu delivered the assurance during a stakeholder meeting with leaders from Kwara’s Colleges of Education and union representatives in Ilorin.

    The session gathered Provosts, Registrars, and Bursars from Colleges of Education in Ilorin, Oro, Lafiagi, and the College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies (CAILS). Also present were Office of Head of Service Permanent Secretary Dr. Olufunke Mercy Shittu, Kwara Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS) officials, and ministry directors.

    “Governor AbdulRazaq prioritizes both infrastructure and the wellbeing of those managing these institutions,” Modibbo Kawu stated, urging stakeholders to foster unity and harmonious working relationships. She emphasized the administration’s dedication to peaceful academic environments alongside physical development.

    Dr. Shittu from the Head of Service office reinforced that worker welfare remains non-negotiable: “The Governor does not take this lightly.” She pledged to address union concerns raised during the meeting.

    Committee of Provosts Chairman Prof. Mukaila Aremu and academic union leader Comrade Salawu Omotayo applauded the Governor’s education investments, describing the approach as “people-centered and education-driven.”

    In parallel, the Commissioner held financial sustainability talks with college Bursars and KWIRS. Discussions focused on boosting internal revenue generation and enforcing prudent financial management. Modibbo Kawu stressed the need for financial discipline and innovative strategies, noting institutions must achieve greater self-sufficiency without compromising educational quality.

    The meetings concluded with commitments to implement joint solutions addressing operational challenges across Kwara’s tertiary education landscape.

  • Kwara Sets Up Committee to Curb Student Loitering, Teacher Lateness

    Kwara Sets Up Committee to Curb Student Loitering, Teacher Lateness

    …Education Commissioner Demands Discipline Revamp in Public Schools

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    Kwara State Government has inaugurated a high-level committee to tackle student loitering during school hours and teacher absenteeism/lateness. Education Commissioner Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe launched the body at the Ministry headquarters in Ilorin, charging members to “restore discipline and sanity” in public schools.

    “The objectives are clear: eliminate student loitering and improve teacher punctuality,” Olohungbebe stated. He urged members to avoid power struggles, work as a team, and act with accountability before God. The initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s education revamp agenda.

    Teaching Service Commission Chairman Mallam Tahueed Bello and SUBEB head Professor Sheu Adaramaja pledged full institutional support. Both emphasized the committee’s role in achieving the Governor’s vision to “transform the child of nobody into somebody.”

    Senior officials witnessing the inauguration included Ministry Permanent Secretary Mrs. Olanrewaju Rebecca Bake, TESCOM Permanent Member III Chief (Mrs) Bosede Daniel, SUBEB Permanent Members Hon. Dorcas Opeyemi and Hajia Habitat Muasu, and directors from all three agencies.

    The committee will design enforcement mechanisms and monitoring frameworks across Kwara’s public schools immediately.

  • Governor Touts Creative Industry as Kwara’s Economic Engine

    Governor Touts Creative Industry as Kwara’s Economic Engine

    …Investments in Film Studio, Innovation Hub Anchor Growth Strategy

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    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has declared the creative sector a vital economic driver and identity-builder beyond mere entertainment. Represented by Communications Commissioner Hon. Bola Olukoju at the “Kwara Kre8 Workshop” in Ilorin Innovation Hub, the Governor stated creativity “transforms lives and powers economies from design to gaming.”

    Hosted by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media Hon. Fafoluyi Olayinka Solace and Kwara Kre8 Lead Adebisi Oyelere, the event focused on professionalizing Nigeria’s creative industry. AbdulRazaq positioned the sector as a sustainable alternative to oil revenues, enabling youth to succeed through talent alone without connections.

    “Kwara intentionally builds environments where creativity is seen, respected, and rewarded,” Olukoju conveyed. The administration highlighted practical support including digital creator partnerships and major infrastructure like the Ilorin Innovation Hub and Sugar Factory Film Studio – a production base for filmmakers and content developers nationwide.

    “This facility invests in dreams and global reach for Kwara-born creatives,” the Governor emphasized. Oyelere praised the state’s investments, noting the hub, visual arts center, and film factory enable “more profitable impressions.” He echoed the Governor’s view of creativity as a significant economic contributor.

    The workshop gathered creatives to address industry challenges and ethical considerations, reinforcing Kwara’s push to position arts and technology as pillars of youth empowerment and economic diversification.

  • Kwara Issues Flood Alert for Jebba, Moro LGA Amid Heavy Rain Forecast

    Kwara Issues Flood Alert for Jebba, Moro LGA Amid Heavy Rain Forecast

    … Residents Urged to Take Precautions as National Warning Highlights Risk

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    Kwara State Government has alerted residents of Jebba and surrounding communities in Moro Local Government Area to a heightened flood risk following a national warning. The National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre in Abuja projected intense rainfall across Nigeria in coming days, specifically identifying Jebba as vulnerable.

    The release emphasized this coincides with peak rainy season, historically linked to flash floods. While no emergencies are currently reported, the government urged proactive measures. Residents in low-lying areas should relocate to higher ground if necessary and avoid waterlogged roads during downpours.

    The advisory calls for community action: clear drainage channels around homes and public spaces, monitor verified weather alerts, and report rising water levels or overflowing drains to local authorities immediately.

    “This proactive notice aims to minimize risks and protect lives and property,” stated Omotola. Residents are advised to stay calm but vigilant, taking all necessary precautions as rainfall intensifies. The Ministry continues monitoring the situation through official channels.

  • Kwara Launches Major Farm Inputs Distribution for 3,000 Farmers

    Kwara Launches Major Farm Inputs Distribution for 3,000 Farmers

    … State Partners Arzikin Noma to Boost Grain Production, Curb Herder-Farmer Clashes

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    Kwara State has launched a large-scale farm inputs distribution program targeting 3,000 farmers in Kaiama Local Government as part of efforts to enhance food security and livestock development. The initiative, a collaboration between the state government, Arzikin Noma, and international partner IDH, focuses on sorghum and soybean cultivation to address both human consumption and animal feed needs.

    At the flag-off ceremony in Apata Alaje community, Livestock Development Commissioner Mrs. Oloruntoyosi Thomas revealed the package includes 18,000 bags of fertilizer, 18,000 liters of agrochemicals (three different types), 75 metric tons of sorghum seeds, and 100 metric tons of soybean seeds. She emphasized the program’s potential to modernize livestock farming and reduce farmer-herder conflicts by ensuring adequate animal feed supply.

    “The grains production initiative directly addresses the root cause of clashes while supporting our industrialisation agenda,” Thomas stated. “This ensures agricultural products get value addition within Kwara rather than leaving as raw materials.”

    The event attracted top government officials including Transportation Commissioner Hon. Aliyu Kora Sabi, who noted the project’s location would foster peace in the agrarian community. Special Adviser on Strategy Alhaji Atiku Abdulsalam described it as part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s agricultural transformation blueprint.

    Private sector partners outlined their roles – Arzikin Noma CEO Adesola Adeoluwa guaranteed market access through off-takers like Olam, while IDH’s Dr. Daniel Abah emphasized creating sustainable agricultural value chains that benefit smallholder farmers.

    Beneficiaries including Mrs. Asmau Muhammad and Iliasu Saka praised the intervention, pledging to maximize the inputs’ potential. The program represents Kwara’s latest move to position itself as Nigeria’s emerging agribusiness hub while resolving longstanding pastoral conflicts through innovative solutions.

  • Kwara State University of Education Lists JAMB-Approved Courses for 2024/2025 Academic Session

    Kwara State University of Education Lists JAMB-Approved Courses for 2024/2025 Academic Session

    …Newly Established Institution Opens Admissions Through Change of Institution Process

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    The Joint Admissions and Matriculations Board (JAMB) has officially listed seventeen accredited courses for the 2024/2025 academic session at Kwara State University of Education (KWASUED). Established by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the institution offers specialized programs including Business Education, Entrepreneurship, and Education and Technology. Other available courses span various disciplines such as Education Management, Guidance and Counseling, Sustainable Development, and Home Economics and Education.

    Prospective students interested in science education can apply for Education and Physics, Education and Biology, Education and Chemistry, or Education and Computer Science. The university also offers Creative Arts Education, Education and English Language, Education and Yoruba, Education and History, and Electrical/Electronics Education.

    KWASUED is currently accepting applications for both the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 academic sessions. Eligible candidates are advised to utilize the JAMB change of institution service at any accredited CBT center to select KWASUED as their first choice institution. The university emphasizes that this step is mandatory for admission consideration.

    For further inquiries, candidates may contact the Director of Admissions through their institution’s Desk Officer or via the CAPS mail system. This development represents a significant milestone in Kwara State’s educational landscape, providing specialized teacher training opportunities aligned with current educational needs.

    Prof. Is-haq O. Oloyede, the JAMB Registrar, confirmed the institution’s readiness to welcome its pioneer students. The establishment of KWASUED underscores the state government’s commitment to expanding access to quality teacher education in Nigeria.

  • Kwara Seeks Federal Partnership to Boost Social Welfare Programs

    Kwara Seeks Federal Partnership to Boost Social Welfare Programs

    …State Moves to Align Poverty Reduction Efforts With National Framework

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    Kwara State has initiated talks with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to strengthen social protection systems for vulnerable residents. The move came during a working visit by Social Development Commissioner Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam to Minister Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda in Abuja.

    Hajia Imam explained the visit aimed to synchronize Kwara’s social interventions with federal poverty alleviation programs. “We’re bridging policy gaps and optimizing funding opportunities to deliver sustainable impact,” she stated, highlighting Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s achievements in women/youth empowerment and grassroots poverty reduction.

    Minister Yilwatda praised Kwara’s inclusive governance model, particularly its community-based humanitarian approach. He pledged federal support while emphasizing the need for robust accountability systems and alignment with national development goals.

    The partnership seeks to expand Kwara’s social safety nets through shared technical expertise and potential funding access. Both parties agreed to establish joint implementation teams to fast-track collaborative programs benefiting vulnerable populations.

  • Kwara Launches Free Online Registration for 2025 Junior Secondary Placement

    Kwara Launches Free Online Registration for 2025 Junior Secondary Placement

    …State-Sponsored Portal Opens June 11 for Common Entrance Exam

    Kwara State has begun online registration for the 2025 Common Entrance Examination into public junior secondary schools. The fully government-sponsored exercise runs from June 11 to June 23 through the official portal: https://placement.kwarastate.gov.ng.

    Education Ministry officials confirmed all registration and examination fees are fully covered by the state government, reinforcing its free education policy. Prospective pupils must register exclusively through their current primary schools, with private institutions required to obtain Quality Assurance Bureau clearance first.

    Head teachers of public primary schools are undergoing mandatory training to ensure smooth implementation. The Ministry warned against any illegal charges to parents, stating violators will face disciplinary action under public service regulations.

    While the examination date will be announced later, parents and school administrators are urged to complete registrations before the June 23 deadline. Support is available via SMS/WhatsApp (07068977077) or email (c2c@kwarastate.gov.ng).

    This initiative advances Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to accessible education across Kwara.

  • Kwara Pilgrims Compensated After Currency Swap Fraud in Saudi Arabia

    Kwara Pilgrims Compensated After Currency Swap Fraud in Saudi Arabia

    …Governor Replaces Stolen $500 Allowances, Backs CBN Card System

    The Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Board confirmed elderly pilgrims were defrauded of their Basic Travel Allowance (BTA) in Medina, Saudi Arabia. This follows a viral video showing pilgrims claiming they received five $1 bills instead of $500.

    Board investigations revealed each pilgrim originally collected five authentic $100 bills in Nigeria under Directorate of State Security supervision. Victims signed receipts after counting cash alongside officials. The fraud occurred later in Medina when vulnerable pilgrims sought currency exchange help from strangers who swapped $100 notes for $1 bills.

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has provided $500 to each affected pilgrim to offset losses. During a separate visit to pilgrims in Mecca, he also gave additional financial support for local expenses. The Board expressed gratitude for these interventions.

    With similar fraud reported nationwide, the Board endorsed the Central Bank of Nigeria’s proposal to replace cash BTA with preloaded debit cards. This system aims to prevent theft, enhance transparency, and protect elderly pilgrims.

    Investigations continue to identify the perpetrators. The Board condemned the exploitation of pilgrims and requested public assistance for justice.