…State Moves to Align Poverty Reduction Efforts With National Framework
#KwaraRising
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.
…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.
…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.
… Road Upgrade to Temporarily Affect Traffic Flow in Ilorin Metropolis
The Kwara State Government has announced plans for partial closure of the Post Office to Challenge section of Muritala Mohammed Way beginning Sunday, June 15, 2025. The temporary measure will enable asphalt laying as part of ongoing road rehabilitation works aimed at improving the critical transport artery.
Commissioner for Works Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo explained that while the road will remain accessible to motorists, traffic diversions will be implemented to facilitate construction activities. He advised road users to expect some delays and exercise patience while navigating the area, emphasizing the importance of obeying traffic officials deployed to manage the flow of vehicles.
“We sincerely regret any inconvenience this may cause residents and commuters,” Engr. Olododo stated. “This infrastructure upgrade forms a crucial part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s urban renewal agenda, designed to enhance the road’s economic value and improve connectivity across the state capital.”
The Ministry has assured the public that all necessary measures have been put in place to minimize disruptions during the construction period. Safety remains a top priority, with adequate signage and traffic control personnel deployed to guide motorists. The government has pledged to complete the project efficiently while maintaining quality standards.
Motorists are strongly advised to plan their routes accordingly, allow extra travel time, and follow all traffic directives. The rehabilitation works form part of broader infrastructure upgrades being implemented across Ilorin metropolis, with similar projects scheduled for other major roads in the coming months.
The government expressed appreciation for residents’ understanding and cooperation as it delivers these critical infrastructure improvements that will ultimately benefit all road users. The Ministry of Works will provide regular updates on project progress through its official communication channels.
Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi attributed falling food prices in Kwara to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s farming investments. He spoke at the University of Ilorin’s 9th Faculty of Agriculture Lecture themed “Agriculture and National Security.”
Alabi cited increased farmer support, counterpart funding, and strategic partnerships as key factors. He noted dry season farming initiatives are expanding to ensure year-round food supply, stabilize prices, and boost income. These efforts aim to optimize irrigation infrastructure and enhance food security.
Linking agriculture to national stability, Alabi called it a tool for economic growth and peace building. He highlighted Kwara’s peaceful environment as attracting agribusiness investments.
Keynote speaker Major-General Bello Alhaji Tsoho connected agriculture to national defense. The military officer and UniIlorin agriculture graduate stressed food insecurity could trigger unrest without policy action. “National security extends beyond military might to include food systems,” he stated, urging treatment of agriculture as a security priority.
The event was hosted by Vice Chancellor Prof. Wahab Egbewole and Faculty Dean Prof. Oluyemisi Fawole.
Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq congratulated Nigerians on Democracy Day. He issued the statement on behalf of all state governors.
AbdulRazaq described June 12 as a watershed in national history. He stated the NGF joins President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other stakeholders in honoring heroes and heroines of the democratic struggle.
The Kwara Governor acknowledged appreciable progress during 26 years of unbroken democracy. He noted Nigeria still faces challenges like any nation. The Forum commits to leveraging constructive dialogue and democratic mechanisms for better outcomes.
AbdulRazaq pledged governors will work with the Federal Government, civic organizations, and partners to widen the democratic space. The goal is fostering sustainable peace and inclusive prosperity.
When I made a condolence post on Tuesday asking for the update about a reported tragic incident at Bukola Saraki’s residence over the weekend, some misguided and headless mob came to my page to brand it as false and misleading.
But the last has not been heard about the parallel durbar former senate president Bukola Saraki held at his GRA Ilorin residence on Sunday. Earlier condemned by stakeholders in several quarters for being an act of disrespect and contempt of the highest order for Emir of Ilorin Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR and the entire people of Ilorin Emirate, reports have also emerged about how it left a trail of blood and anguish in the life of a poor family.
Since I have been challenged to come up with details, some even going ahead to threaten my family, it was a matter of time before they got exposed for this fraud. One death has now been confirmed.
The victim, Hajia Roheemat Aduke Atanda, a middle-aged woman, is the wife of former PDP chairman of Abeemi/Itamerin joint zone. The husband, Mallam Jimoh Atanda, popularly known as Baba Mufu, died barely three months ago.
They lived in Olosan Compound at Itamerin.
The wife reportedly died in tragic circumstances in Bukola Saraki’s residence during the contemptuous and haphazardly planned ‘Temu Durbar’ or ‘Ojude Saraki’ celebrations held in GRA on Sunday.
Several eyewitness accounts allegged that it was a case of poor safety and crowd control which led to a brief stampede.
The victim left behind a child. As a result of this incident, the poor child has now been turned into an orphan.
She was buried yesterday amidst sobbing and sadness. The entire Ile Olosan compound and the community are in mourning over the sad incident.
Over 48 hours after the incident, neither Bukola Saraki nor Kwara PDP has acknowledged this development. It is even more insensitive that PDP went ahead to release a statement today commending Saraki for the jamboree, but there was not a word of condolence for the victim and her family.
It is surprising and shocking that both Saraki and the leaders of the PDP would even try to cover the incident up totally. Instead of showing empathy and accountability, party chieftains have resorted to threatening family members and neighbours from disclosing details of the victim and the circumstances of death in order to protect the image of their leader.
Most wickedly, they also instructed some of their members to tell anyone inquiring that the incident happened at the parallel Saraki-Durbar, in order to divert attention, instead of coming clean that it was another tragedy at the backyard of the Sarakis during the odd ‘Ojude Saraki’ jamboree. This goes to give a bad name to Durbar2025, organised by Engr Yahaya Alapansapa-led committee under the auspices of Emir of Ilorin Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, which went smooth and free without hassle. I hope that the committee sees this and take urgent action to save their reputation which may be sullied by Saraki and his followers before a global audience because of their selfish political interest.
When people celebrate Durbar next year, the family members of the victim will now be using the day as a remembrance of a daughter, mother, and grandmother, whose death could have been avoided.
Some have since said this is another political sacrifice. It somewhat rehashed the old memory of annual sallah ‘ritual’ due to stampede linked to the former senate president and his dynasty.
According to Premium Times, no less than 47 lives were lost between 2010 and 2013 while queuing up for food and pittance from the former Governor.
These were people with husbands, children, friends and extended family. The late wife of the former PDP zonal chairman has now joined the list.
At what point would this gale of avoidable tragedy stop?
I am urging the relevant government agencies, especially the security, to look into the issues carefully with a view to upholding justice and preventing future occurrence in the politician’s residence.
Now, members of PDP should advise Saraki to reach out personally to the poor family with support and empathy, and own up to the incident as decent people will do instead of the reports of threats flying around. He can no longer ignore them just because he wants to protect his image. The public is fully aware. If he cannot do this to reward the sacrifices of the late husband and wife, he should at least consider the future of the teenager the good woman left behind. They should also stop this criminal and wicked act henceforth. Only Allah giveth and taketh lives. But it is terrible threatening a grieving family just to cover the irresponsibility of the one leader they trusted. It is cowardice.
Abdullateef is Senior Special Assistant on Communication to the Governor
The Kwara State Government has restated its strong commitment to promoting oral health as a key component of general wellbeing, urging residents to embrace preventive care and regular dental check-ups.
This was made known by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, during the opening of a three-day free oral health outreach organised by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with Pharma Decko PLC at the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH), Ilorin.
Represented by the Director of Public Health, Dr. Oluwatosin Fakayode, the Commissioner said oral health is often neglected despite being foundational to overall health.
“Oral health is the cornerstone of overall health, yet it is often neglected. Poor oral hygiene contributes to several non-communicable diseases. Its effects may be gradual but often become severe if left unaddressed. That’s why this outreach is timely and essential,” El-Imam said.
She commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his sustained investments in the health sector, including the renovation and equipping of the state’s dental clinic, which she described as a major step forward in improving access to dental care.
The Commissioner urged Kwarans to take full advantage of the outreach by getting free dental checks, treatments, and professional advice on oral hygiene.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Pharma Decko PLC, Mr. Ishola Olukayode, praised the Kwara State Government and Ministry of Health for their swift support.
“Despite the short notice, the Ministry gave us overwhelming support. Pharma Decko PLC is committed to supporting oral health in Nigeria. Unfortunately, due to lack of awareness, many people still use harmful substances on their teeth, risking their general health,” he noted.
Mr. Olukayode emphasized that oral care involves more than just daily brushing. He advocated for regular professional check-ups and increased public sensitization to tackle deep-rooted misconceptions and risky practices.
During an oral health education session at the event, Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr. Kasali Ajao, revealed that brushing alone addresses only about 40% of oral health needs. He recommended scaling and polishing at least twice a yearfor proper dental care.
“Comprehensive oral hygiene requires professional care, not just daily brushing,” he added.
The free oral health outreach continues until Thursday at the Dental Unit of KWASUTH, offering residents free diagnoses and treatments, including scaling, polishing, and oral health consultations.
Residents are encouraged to turn out in large numbers and use the opportunity to take proactive steps towards better oral and overall health.
The Kwara State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to the timely, transparent, and full payment of salaries and pensions, emphasizing that all civil servants and retirees with valid registration details have been duly paid up to May 2025.
This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, in a statement issued in Ilorin. She explained that the disbursements were made through the implementation of the State Social Identity Database (SSID) verification process — a reform that has significantly improved the accuracy and transparency of salary and pension administration.
Dr. Nuru disclosed that 97% of state workers with valid records under the Kwara State Residents Registration Agency (KWASRRA) database have received their salaries for May. The remaining 3%, she said, were unpaid due to issues such as invalid registration, name mismatches, or failure to complete the mandatory registration process.
“Likewise, 81.2% of state pensioners with valid KWASRRA registrations have been verified and paid. However, approximately 17% remain on hold due to non-participation in physical verification or failure to register, while 1.8% face issues with invalid SSID numbers or are untraceable due to relocation abroad or other factors, including possible deaths,” she added.
At the local government level, including the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Nuru said 95% of workers have received payment, while 5% have not, owing to errors such as incorrect Personnel Staff Numbers (PSN), invalid SSID or National Identification Numbers (NIN), and non-registration with KWASRRA.
She noted that 76.7% of verified local government pensioners have also been paid their May pensions. The outstanding 23.3% remain unpaid due to similar registration and verification issues.
The Commissioner urged affected individuals to update their records without delay. “KWASRRA has introduced a simple SMS-based process for pensioners to lodge complaints and resolve payment issues without needing to visit offices physically,” she said.
Affected pensioners are encouraged to send an SMS to 08032059986 with the following details: • Full Name • Verification Number • Pension Number • Account Number and Bank Name • NIN • KWASRRA SSID Number
Pensioners who have lost their SSID can retrieve it online via the KWASRRA website: https://www.kwasrra.ng/register/validate.
Dr. Nuru assured the public that the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration remains fully committed to protecting public funds while ensuring that workers and retirees are not denied their entitlements.
She also advised media outlets to cross-check claims before publication to prevent misinformation. “It’s important that platforms are not used by partisan actors to spread mischief or cause public disaffection,” she said.
…Says the Festival Calls for Devotion to God and Commitment to Nigeria’s Progress
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has congratulated the people of the state, particularly the Muslim community, on the occasion of Eid-el-Adha, urging them to remain faithful to God and committed to the unity and development of Nigeria.
In a goodwill message to mark the Eid, which begins on Friday, Dhul-Hijjah 10, 1446 A.H., the Governor also extended warm felicitations to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.
Governor AbdulRazaq described the festival as a celebration of sacrifice, submission, and fulfillment of divine promises, drawing inspiration from the lives of Prophets Ibrahim and Muhammad (peace be upon them).
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, I urge everyone to remain steadfast in their faith in God and in our shared commitment to the Nigerian project,” the Governor said. “Let us continue to promote peaceful coexistence, support sustainable development efforts, and reject anything that undermines the growth and unity of Nigeria, our fatherland.”
He called on citizens to use the period of celebration to reflect on the values of sacrifice and obedience, and to show love and compassion to others, especially the less privileged.
Governor AbdulRazaq also encouraged continued support for President Bola Tinubu and his own administration in their shared quest to build a better country.
“I wish everyone a blessed Eid and many more years of good health and happiness,” he added.
