Kwara Rising

Category: News

  • Kwara Records Lowest Infant Mortality Rate in Nigeria — Official

    Kwara Records Lowest Infant Mortality Rate in Nigeria — Official

    …State’s focus on skilled birth attendants, immunisation, and maternal care credited for landmark health achievement

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government has announced that it currently holds the lowest infant mortality rate in Nigeria, marking a major milestone in its ongoing healthcare reforms.

    Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Nusirat Elelu, made this known on Thursday during the First Quarterly Meeting of the Kwara State Task Force on Immunisation and Primary Health Care in Ilorin.

    Citing data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), Dr. Elelu said Kwara recorded just two child deaths per 1,000 live births — the lowest figure in the country.

    “This is a direct reflection of improved healthcare delivery in our primary health facilities,” she said. “We have seen increased confidence among mothers who now prefer to give birth at health centres, thereby reducing preventable child deaths.”

    Dr. Elelu added that Kwara also leads the North-Central region in the deployment of skilled birth attendants across its primary health centres (PHCs), which has significantly boosted maternal and infant survival rates.

    To sustain the momentum, she said the state government has distributed free delivery kits to PHCs across all 16 local government areas and launched a toll-free line to eliminate illegal charges at health centres.

    “In addition to safe deliveries, we are making progress in immunisation coverage for children under five. However, we still face resistance from some fathers who prevent their spouses from vaccinating their children,” she noted.

    In response, Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi expressed concern over this barrier and pledged that the state would intensify community engagement, especially with men, to ensure full support for immunisation campaigns.

    “The government is committed to working with local authorities to engage fathers and husbands on the importance of immunisation and maternal care,” he said.

    The meeting also reviewed progress made in improving access to health services and discussed strategies to strengthen outreach to underserved communities.

  • Kwara Flags Off New Round of Farm Inputs Distribution to Boost Food Security

    Kwara Flags Off New Round of Farm Inputs Distribution to Boost Food Security

    …Governor AbdulRazaq reinforces commitment to agriculture with large-scale support for farmers across 16 LGAs

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday flagged off another phase of machinery and agricultural input distribution to farmers across the 16 local government areas of the state, as part of efforts to enhance food security and rural economic development.

    Speaking at the symbolic launch in Ilorin, the Governor — represented by his Senior Adviser and Counsellor, Alhaji Sa’adu Salau — described the gesture as a practical step towards poverty reduction and economic empowerment through agriculture.

    “Our administration has consistently prioritised agriculture, not just as a sector, but as a tool to empower our people, strengthen rural livelihoods, and create sustainable jobs,” the Governor said. “What we are flagging off today is another wave of this assistance. More distributions will follow in organised batches, reaching deeper into our communities and reinforcing our shared productivity.”

    Thursday’s distribution included 16 additional tractors, ploughs, harrows, and ridgers; 32,000kg (1,600 bags) of maize seeds; 18,000kg (360 bags) of Faro 44 rice seeds; and 10,800kg (270 bags) of TGX 1951 soya bean seeds. Farmers also received 720 sachets of inoculants, 5,040 bags each of NPK and urea, 720 bags of SSP, and various herbicides tailored for specific crops. To enhance chemical application, 2,400 knapsack sprayers were also distributed.

    Governor AbdulRazaq highlighted infrastructural gains made in the sector, including rehabilitation of rural roads, investment in irrigation, and support for farmer cooperatives.

    “These inputs are not handouts — they are investments in your productivity, your future, and the prosperity of our state,” he told the farmers, urging them to use the resources wisely.

    Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge, noted that the intervention falls under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), a World Bank-supported programme.

    Chairman of the Kwara State Farmers’ Support and Welfare Association, Abdullahi Ahmed, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his continued commitment to agricultural growth and food sufficiency.

    Dignitaries present included members of the state executive council, local government chairmen, the Emir of Shonga Dr. Haliru Yahaya, APC stakeholders, women groups, and youth representatives.

  • PUBLIC CLARIFICATIONS ON THE PROPOSED PAVILION

    PUBLIC CLARIFICATIONS ON THE PROPOSED PAVILION

    Kwara State Geographic Information Service (GIS) again wishes to state the following on the proposed pavilion project:

    • The Service restates that at no time was any approval sought nor any given before the contractor illegally embarked on the construction work at the site. This is a grave offence under the law, which attracts 200% penalty. The Service does not tolerate such behaviour under whatever guise, hence the stoppage of work on the second day it started, February 7, 2025.
    • ⁠The Service hereby acknowledges that it received a set of incomplete documents from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security with a cover letter from the Ilorin Emirates Council. That was a single document out of many others.
    • ⁠Acknowledging that the said proposed pavilion is a constituency project to be funded by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Service had since written to the client Ministry requesting it to supply all relevant documents that ought to accompany the request for statutory approval. This is a matter of law.
    • ⁠The Service’s letter is dated March 12. It was acknowledged by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on April 7, 2025.
    • ⁠It is not true that the Service has received any further correspondences providing the documents required to process the request for approval. For the avoidance of doubt, the documents being awaited from the client Ministry included (but not limited to): detailed survey plan; locational plan; block plan with detail dimensions, specifications and setbacks to the adjoining roads and properties; site analysis; parking lots plan; sewage system plans; drainage system plans; fire safety plan; storm water management plan; M & E drawings; soil test; environmental management plan; environmental impact assessment; and geophysical examination report.
    • ⁠As of today, Thursday, May 8, 2025, the Service has not received any response from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, or anyone for that matter, furnishing us with the required documents to process the approval.
    • ⁠The Service is not empowered under the law to issue statutory approvals where conditions precedent have not been fulfilled. This is to prevent any untoward happenings afterwards.

    Signed:

    ESV. Abdulkareem Babatubde Sulyman
    Executive Chairman, KWGIS
    May 8, 2025

  • Kwara Remains One of Nigeria’s Most Peaceful States — Nigerian Military

    Kwara Remains One of Nigeria’s Most Peaceful States — Nigerian Military

    …Army Commends Governor AbdulRazaq’s Investments in Security and Economy During Visit

    #KwaraRising

    Kwara State remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria, thanks to its proactive investment in security and economic development, the Nigerian Military has said.

    The commendation came from Colonel Usman Hashim Muhammed, the lead officer of the Senior Course 47 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, during an interactive session with top government officials in Ilorin on Tuesday.

    “Kwara State is one of the most peaceful states, but this fact does not mean that we should relent. It only requires that more efforts are made so that the peace continues and improves in the future,” Col. Muhammed said.

    He added that the visit was part of a study tour to understand the strategies behind the state’s peaceful status and that findings from the interaction would help shape further recommendations to sustain and enhance security in the state.

    The delegation was received by senior government officials, including the representative of the Secretary to the State Government, Abdulganiy Yita; Special Adviser on Media, Alhaji Bashir Adigun; SSA on Security, Alhaji Muyideen Aliyu; SSA on Religion (Christianity), Revd Timothy Akangbe; and Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye.

    The Nigerian Army praised the AbdulRazaq-led administration’s commitment to peacebuilding and people-centered initiatives that foster economic growth and social inclusion.

    In his briefing to the delegation, SSA on Security Muyideen Aliyu outlined the government’s approach to security, which includes logistical and financial support for security agencies, collaboration with traditional and religious leaders, and engagement with community-based vigilante groups.

    Speaking at the session, Alhaji Adigun highlighted the vital role of community structures in bolstering security, while appreciating the military for its continued efforts in safeguarding internal peace.

    CPS Rafiu Ajakaye, who moderated the session, spoke on the state’s economic growth, citing a 125.82% increase in Internally Generated Revenue—from N30.6 billion in 2019 to N69.1 billion in 2024—achieved through automation, fiscal discipline, and tax reforms.

    He detailed flagship projects introduced under Governor AbdulRazaq, including the Garment Factory, Innovation Hub, Film Factory, and Kwapreneur programme, all designed to uplift vulnerable groups, grow the local economy, and expand youth opportunities through skills acquisition and job creation.

    Ajakaye noted that the administration has created tens of thousands of jobs across various sectors and recruited over 8,600 teachers between 2019 and 2025—describing it as the highest education-sector employment in recent Kwara history.

    He added that the state has committed over N4 billion in counterpart funding to unlock development partnerships, particularly for rural infrastructure, with over 1,000 kilometers of roads already rehabilitated or under construction.

    The interactive session affirmed Kwara’s multipronged governance model—anchored on security, economic empowerment, and inclusive growth—as a national example of effective subnational leadership.

  • Kwara Records 16% IGR Growth, $85 Million Grant, and 45.8% Debt Reduction in Q1 2025

    Kwara Records 16% IGR Growth, $85 Million Grant, and 45.8% Debt Reduction in Q1 2025


    … Finance Commissioner hails Governor AbdulRazaq’s fiscal reforms as State posts major wins in revenue growth, debt sustainability, and global funding access

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Ministry of Finance has reported significant fiscal achievements for the first quarter of 2025, reflecting the State’s commitment to prudent financial management and economic development under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

    Presenting the Q1 2025 Ministerial Briefing, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, highlighted a 16% increase in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) compared to the same period in 2024. She attributed this growth to effective investment strategies and comprehensive tax reforms aimed at reducing dependence on federal allocations. “This growth underscores our commitment to financial autonomy and sustainable economic development,” Dr. Nuru stated.

    In addition to the IGR performance, Dr. Nuru announced that Kwara State secured over $85 million in performance-based grants through the World Bank’s Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, placing Kwara among the top-performing states nationwide. She described the achievement as a direct result of the administration’s consistent efforts to uplift the poor and vulnerable and to implement development programmes effectively across all 16 local government areas.

    Dr. Nuru also revealed that Kwara’s domestic debt stock had dropped by 45.8%, a remarkable reduction that positions the State among Nigeria’s most fiscally sustainable sub-national governments. She said this development, along with stable fiscal indicators, reflects the prudent management of public resources under the present administration.

    The Commissioner reported that the ₦584.69 billion 2025 budget was published promptly, demonstrating transparency and a commitment to accountability. She added that the Ministry has advanced its financial operations by automating processes, adopting the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), and introducing real-time expenditure monitoring systems to enhance oversight and service delivery.

    Reaffirming the State’s policy of prompt payment of salaries and pensions, Dr. Nuru stressed the importance of the ongoing Kwara State Residents Registration Agency (KWSRRA) exercise, which is required for all State and local government pensioners and employees. She noted that the exercise would ensure seamless verification and timely disbursement of monthly entitlements.

    Dr. Nuru concluded by acknowledging Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s visionary leadership and support for financial reform. “His Excellency’s direction and commitment to good governance have been pivotal in steering our financial strategies toward success,” she said.

  • Kwara Vaccinates Over 130,000 Animals to Curb Zoonotic Diseases

    Kwara Vaccinates Over 130,000 Animals to Curb Zoonotic Diseases


    …State government intensifies livestock health efforts as part of broader strategy for food security, public health, and sector growth

    Kwara State Government has vaccinated 132,792 animals across the state in a large-scale effort to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. The exercise targeted susceptible animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.

    The State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Hon. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, disclosed this while presenting the Ministry’s report at the quarterly inter-ministerial press briefing held at the Ministry of Finance in Ilorin. She noted that the vaccination campaign covered 110,241 cattle, 16,009 sheep, and 6,542 goats.

    Hon. Thomas stated that the mass vaccination campaign is part of the administration’s commitment to improving animal health, public safety, and agricultural productivity. She added that the newly created Ministry has also inaugurated a Live Bird Market to support poultry farmers and fowl sellers. The market, she said, will serve as a surveillance point to monitor and prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases.

    The Commissioner noted that a Cadre Harmonise analysis was recently conducted, with the findings presented to the national government, ECOWAS, and the United Nations by the National Task Force. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to building a modern and inclusive livestock sector capable of generating jobs, ensuring food security, and fostering peace.

    She highlighted key intervention programmes such as the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) and the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Programme as instrumental to the progress being recorded in the livestock sector under the AbdulRazaq-led administration.

    Hon. Thomas also revealed that the Ministry is finalising plans to begin a rabies vaccination campaign across the state, aimed at controlling and eliminating rabies cases caused by dog and cat bites. She emphasized that the present administration remains focused on safeguarding public health through proactive veterinary and agricultural policies.

  • Kwarans Urge Sen. Saliu Mustapha to Obtain Statutory Approval Before Constructing Pavilion at Emir’s Palace

    Kwarans Urge Sen. Saliu Mustapha to Obtain Statutory Approval Before Constructing Pavilion at Emir’s Palace

    A wave of public sentiment has emerged in support of the Kwara State Government amid an ongoing controversy surrounding the construction of a pavilion within the Emir of Ilorin’s Palace.

    Citizens are calling on Senator Saliu Mustapha, the Turaki of Ilorin and senator representing Kwara Central, to obtain proper statutory approval before proceeding with the project.

    A majority of contributors to a weekend radio discussion threw their weight behind the government, urging the senator to seek authorization from the appropriate state agencies before embarking on any building projects within the revered palace premises. Many warned that failing to follow due process could lead to avoidable disputes or unintended consequences in the future.

    The issue was extensively debated on Eto Wa, a widely listened-to radio program produced by leading pro-democracy group Kwara Must Change. The episode featured seasoned commentators, including Mr. Dare Kamaldeen Babasiga and development analyst Dr. Ibrahim Kuranga, who explained the legal and procedural frameworks governing public infrastructure development—especially in historically and culturally sensitive areas.

    The pavilion in question is reportedly being constructed under the directive of Senator Mustapha without documented clearance from relevant state regulatory bodies, a move that has raised concern about procedural compliance.

    In a rare move, the program’s anchor, Bolaji Galadima, opened the phone lines earlier than usual to capture real-time public sentiment. The responses were emphatic and largely unanimous, callers from across Ilorin and beyond expressed strong support for the Kwara State Government’s insistence on adherence to due process.

    Several contributors emphasized that no individual, regardless of social or political status, should bypass the laid-down procedures for construction, especially within the Emir’s Palace, which stands as a symbol of cultural heritage and traditional authority in Ilorin Emirate.

    “The rule of law must prevail, one caller stated.

    The controversy has reignited broader conversations about the boundaries of political influence in traditional institutions and the need to uphold institutional integrity.

  • Kwara Govt Pushes Infrastructure Drive with 24 New Road Projects, Tallest Flagpole in West Africa

    Kwara Govt Pushes Infrastructure Drive with 24 New Road Projects, Tallest Flagpole in West Africa

    …33 projects completed, 209km of rural roads underway, FG interventions acknowledged

    The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding infrastructure and unlocking economic opportunities across the state through a series of strategic investments aimed at improving connectivity and enhancing the lives of residents.

    At the Q1 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held on Wednesday in Ilorin, the Honourable Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, said the state has awarded 24 new road projects this year alone, with six already completed. He noted that out of the 46 ongoing projects as of Q4 2024, 33 have now been fully delivered, while 11 continue into the new quarter.

    One of the flagship projects mentioned is the construction of the Agbamu–Ila-Orangun Road, described as a critical inter-state link between Kwara and Osun States, expected to spur economic activities and ease regional access.

    “More border communities will soon be opened up as part of the administration’s rural-urban integration agenda,” the Commissioner stated.

    Olododo also disclosed that projects earlier delayed due to cost variations have now resumed, including key roads in the Ilorin GRA axis and other parts of the state.

    In the area of emergency response, the Commissioner reported that the Kwara State Fire Service saved properties worth over ₦728 billion during the period under review—underscoring improvements in operational efficiency.

    He also highlighted the state’s success under the ongoing Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), with 209.77km of rural roads under construction. The project has earned Kwara two national recognitions: Best in Counterpart Funding and Best in Overall Disbursement.

    A notable highlight of the briefing was the announcement of a 70-meter flagpole—billed as the tallest in West Africa—under construction on Wahab Folawiyo Unity Road. Olododo described the initiative as “a symbol of Kwara’s rising prominence and collective pride.”

    He further acknowledged major federal road interventions across the state, including:

    ● The 49km Eyenkorin–Afon–Ojoku–Offa–Odo-Otin Road

    ● The 83km Lafiagi–Shonga–Bacita Road

    ● The 130km Bode Saadu–Kaiama–Kosubosu Road

    ● The Okuta–Gwanara–Bukuro Road

    “These state and federal investments are reshaping Kwara’s future,” he said.

    Engr. Olododo concluded by commending Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s visionary leadership, stating that the government remains resolute in transforming Kwara through balanced rural-urban development and long-term prosperity for all citizens.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Celebrates Workers

    Governor AbdulRazaq Celebrates Workers

    …. Reaffirms Commitment to Job Growth and Civil Service Reforms.

    As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark the 2025 International Workers’ Day, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has saluted the dedication and contributions of workers across the public and private sectors, describing them as the engine room of societal development.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, the Governor praised the efforts of civil servants, farmers, factory workers, teachers, healthcare personnel, engineers, artisans, and professionals whose resilience and industry continue to drive economic growth and social progress in the state.

    “For us in Kwara State, we appreciate the immense contributions of our workers. Their dedication, resilience, and skills are the pillars of our growth and development,” the Governor said.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for workers to thrive, highlighting policies focused on strengthening the civil service, expanding job opportunities, and attracting investments to grow the state’s economy.

    “We are determined to implement policies that strengthen our civil service, grow the economy, attract investments, and expand job opportunities. Through targeted infrastructural and socioeconomic initiatives, our administration has maintained financial stability, ensured timely salary payments, supported entrepreneurship, and provided social safety nets,” the statement added.

    Governor AbdulRazaq noted that the changing nature of work, shaped by innovation and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation, calls for strategic adaptation. He pointed to various state-led projects like the Kwara Innovation Hub, the Visual Arts Centre, and the expansion of ICT centres as part of efforts to equip citizens for future opportunities.

    “As the world of work evolves… we must adapt. That thinking is at the heart of our numerous initiatives,” he said.

    The Governor also extended his appreciation to labour leaders for their support and collaborative engagement with the state government, assuring that the administration will continue to uphold workers’ welfare and dignity.

    “I wish everyone a fulfilling and inspiring Workers’ Day celebration,” he concluded.

  • KFA Edges Araba FC in Narrow Victory Despite Spirited Performance

    KFA Edges Araba FC in Narrow Victory Despite Spirited Performance


    … Matchday 3 – NLO 2025 | Tuesday, April 29 | KFA Main Pitch

    Araba FC suffered a narrow defeat on Tuesday afternoon in their Matchday 3 clash against Kwara Football Academy (KFA), with the hosts scoring an early goal that sealed the outcome in a tightly contested match.

    Screenshot

    The game kicked off under clear skies at the KFA Main Pitch, and for the first time in the tournament, fans and stakeholders applauded what many described as fair and balanced officiating. However, that early boost in officiating standards wasn’t enough to swing the tide in Araba FC’s favour.

    KFA made their mark early in the first half, capitalizing on a loose ball in the 6th minute to slot in the game’s only goal — Kwara Football Academy’s Timothy Maxwell powered home a well placed cross from Abduljelil Kamaldeen on his debut for the Academy Senior Team. It was a momentary lapse in Araba’s defensive line and KFA punished it ruthlessly.Despite the early setback, Araba FC responded with purpose and resilience. The team settled into a steady rhythm and began controlling key portions of the midfield. Tactical buildup, quick passes, and aggressive pressing soon followed, showcasing the brand of football that has earned Araba FC a loyal following in the ongoing Nationwide League One (NLO) season.

    Chances came in waves — a close-range strike that rattled the crossbar, a curling free kick that missed the top corner by inches, and a beautiful one-two combination in the box that narrowly went wide. The boys pushed hard, but as the saying goes, “mother luck” was not in their favour.

    Fans remained vocal and passionate throughout the game, urging the players forward and appreciating their continued effort to overturn the early deficit. The coaching team made timely substitutions to refresh the squad, but the equalizer simply refused to come.

    Though the match ended in disappointment for Araba FC, the performance showed heart, structure, and the fighting spirit the club has become known for. The defeat, though painful, serves as a moment of reflection and a push toward greater focus in the upcoming fixtures.

    Coach Femi Oki and the technical bench will no doubt return to the drawing board, but supporters can take pride in the team’s attitude and composure under pressure.

    Next Challenge: Sunrise FC on Friday
    The journey continues as Araba FC gears up for their next match against Sunrise FC on Friday. It’s another opportunity to bounce back stronger and reaffirm their status as one of the most exciting sides in this year’s NLO campaign.

    Final Score:
    KFA 1 – 0 Araba FC