Kwara Rising

Category: News

  • Kwara Shines in Lagos as Kwara United Lifts Historic Federation Cup

    Kwara Shines in Lagos as Kwara United Lifts Historic Federation Cup

    …Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Flow 92.7 fm Chairman, Araba Femi Sanni, other dignitaries Join Fans at Thrilling Federation Cup Finals

    The Mobolaji Johnson Sports Arena in Lagos was the stage for two dramatic Federation Cup finals, bringing an end to the 2025 edition of the national knockout tournament. After a gruelling series of matches since February, four clubs Kwara United, Abakaliki FC, Nasarawa Amazons, and Rivers Angels emerged to contest the men’s and women’s titles.

    In the men’s final, Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Kwara United secured their first-ever major honour, edging past a spirited Abakaliki FC side in a tense affair. Despite both teams creating chances, poor finishing defined the match, with neither able to take full control in regular time. Kwara United eventually found the breakthrough, sealing a historic moment they have long waited for.

    Abakaliki FC, who will compete in Nigeria’s third-tier league next season, had captured the hearts of fans after eliminating several big-name clubs via penalty shootouts en route to the final. But the Cinderella story fell just short at the final hurdle, as their shootout luck ran out when it mattered most.

    In the women’s final, Rivers Angels held off a determined Nasarawa Amazons side to retain the title they won last year. It was a contest full of grit and experience, with Rivers showing once again why they are a force in women’s football. Nasarawa, without key players Rachael Unachukwu and Sikiratu Isah due to national duty, gave a solid performance but couldn’t break through the Rivers defence.

    Among the dignitaries that saw the games were several dignitaries including the Governor of Lagos State. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Kwara state Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, There was Senator Sadiq Suleiman Umar representing Kwara North alongside Flow 92.7 fm Chairman, Araba Femi Sanni.

    There were also Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, the former Deputy Governor of Nassarawa state who is currently the Director General of the National Directorate of Employment, Silas Ali Agara,

    With both finals now concluded, this year’s Federation Cup delivered memorable moments, new champions, and further proof that Nigerian football continues to rise at all levels.

  • Kwara Govt Declares Zero Tolerance for Environmental Violations

    Kwara Govt Declares Zero Tolerance for Environmental Violations

    …Mobile Courts to Sanction Offenders at Major Markets

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State has announced immediate enforcement of environmental laws through mobile courts, with Ilorin Central Market (Oja Oba) as the first implementation site. Environment Commissioner Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge issued the stern warning during a ministry meeting in Ilorin, signaling an end to leniency for environmental offenders.

    The commissioner revealed a multi-agency enforcement strategy involving Environmental Health Officers and security personnel. “Violators dumping refuse illegally or trading on walkways and road medians will face magistrates at mobile courts,” Buge stated. “Those unable to pay fines will serve correctional time with their wares confiscated.”

    The crackdown coincides with flood alerts from NiMET and NEMA, prompting the commissioner to caution residents against blocking waterways. She urged property owners to regularize documents with Kwara State.

  • PRESS STATEMENT BY ARABA FEMI SANNI FNICE Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

    PRESS STATEMENT BY ARABA FEMI SANNI FNICE Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

    On the Passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo

    I join countless Nigerians in mourning the loss of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo — former Governor of Kwara State, Senator, Minister of Communications, and one of the towering figures in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    Chief Adebayo was not only a national icon but also a personal mentor who introduced me to politics. It was under his guidance that I learned the true meaning of politics rooted in ideology, principle, and service. Through him, I came to understand that public life is not about expediency, but about values and unwavering integrity.

    During our time in exile in Canada, he led the NADECO group with unmatched discipline and clarity of purpose. Working closely with him was an honour and an education. He was a true “general” in the pro-democracy struggle — calm under pressure, deeply thoughtful, and always guided by reason and restraint.

    One vivid memory stands out: the morning General Abacha passed, Chief Adebayo called me and, in his typically cautious and deliberate manner, urged me to verify the news through my contacts before reacting. That moment captured the essence of who he was — a man of wisdom, principle, and sound judgment.

    His life was a masterclass in statesmanship. Kwara has lost a great son, and Nigeria a voice of reason, dignity, and moral clarity.

    On behalf of myself, Flow FM 92.7, and the many others he mentored and inspired, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, the good people of Kwara State, and the entire nation.

    Chief Adebayo’s legacy will live on in the many lives he touched, and in the values he stood for.

    May his noble soul rest in perfect peace.

    Signed,
    Araba Femi Sanni
    Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

  • PRESS STATEMENT BY ARABA FEMI SANNI FNICE Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

    PRESS STATEMENT BY ARABA FEMI SANNI FNICE Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

    On the Passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo

    I join countless Nigerians in mourning the loss of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo — former Governor of Kwara State, Senator, Minister of Communications, and one of the towering figures in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

    Chief Adebayo was not only a national icon but also a personal mentor who introduced me to politics. It was under his guidance that I learned the true meaning of politics rooted in ideology, principle, and service. Through him, I came to understand that public life is not about expediency, but about values and unwavering integrity.

    During our time in exile in Canada, he led the NADECO group with unmatched discipline and clarity of purpose. Working closely with him was an honour and an education. He was a true “general” in the pro-democracy struggle — calm under pressure, deeply thoughtful, and always guided by reason and restraint.

    One vivid memory stands out: the morning General Abacha passed, Chief Adebayo called me and, in his typically cautious and deliberate manner, urged me to verify the news through my contacts before reacting. That moment captured the essence of who he was — a man of wisdom, principle, and sound judgment.

    His life was a masterclass in statesmanship. Kwara has lost a great son, and Nigeria a voice of reason, dignity, and moral clarity.

    On behalf of myself, Flow FM 92.7, and the many others he mentored and inspired, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, the good people of Kwara State, and the entire nation.

    Chief Adebayo’s legacy will live on in the many lives he touched, and in the values he stood for.

    May his noble soul rest in perfect peace.

    Signed,
    Araba Femi Sanni
    Chairman, Flow FM 92.7

  • 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

    #KwaraRising

    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

    #KwaraRising

    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

    #KwaraRising

    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

    #KwaraRising

    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

    #KwaraRising

    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.