Kwara State PDP has just issued a statement raising an alarm that Kwara State pilgrims in the holy land Saudi Arabia are stranded.
As a policy of the media team, we checked to see if anything is amiss, contrary to what we knew about the scheduled return of our pilgrims.
I spoke with the Ameerul Hajj and Olupo of Ajase-Ipo HRM Oba Ismail Yahya Alebiosu and the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims’ Board. They both had a good laugh at the statement of the PDP because there is nothing as such.
Kwara has some 2,204 pilgrims this year, one of the biggest contingents from Nigeria. These pilgrims are scheduled to depart Saudi in four batches as follows: June 21st, 23rd, 25th, and 27th. This schedule was not designed by the Kwara State Government; it was designed by all the stakeholders: NAHCON, airlines, and the pilgrims’ board.
Many states of the federation still have pilgrims in the holy land. Nigeria has some 41,000 pilgrims this year; of these, only 6,951 are back, according to NAHCON figures this afternoon.
Today is June 17th. How did the story of being stranded arise?
As a reporter, I’m for a democracy that allows for free exchange of information and robust conversations on issues of shared interest. But I am not for sheer mischief and irresponsibility. They serve no good. In fact, mischief constitutes existential threats to all of us. This is why false alarm attracts stiff penalties in many societies.
“It’s only when we discover how to live with one another peacefully, governed by institutions, rules, and norms to which we mutually consent, that we can turn our attention to other vital issues,” according to Jeremy Weinstein.
I appeal to our colleagues in the media, legacy or new, to adopt a higher level of scrutiny for what they accept from anyone at all — ruling or opposition politicians. This is important for the good of all. If we allow just anything and no line is too sacred to cross, we risk psychological numbing to issues of grave significance to the public welfare or safety.
Pray, where did the PDP get the idea that Kwara pilgrims are stranded? How are they stranded? When are they expected back home? Has that time lapsed? If purveyors of fake news know that people will ask questions, they will think twice before dishing it out. I beg that we set the bar very high in our own interest.
▪︎Rafiu Ajakaye is CPS to the Governor of Kwara State
The visionary leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has shielded Kwara State from the sharp rise in rural poverty recently highlighted by the World Bank, which reported that 75.5% of rural Nigerians now live below the poverty line.
Long before this stark statistic emerged, His Excellency had already begun laying the groundwork for rural development and economic empowerment across the state. A Buffer and a Prime Mover, His Excellency’s policies—centered on inclusivity, sustainability, and practical impact—are now producing measurable results in improving the standard of living for citizens.
Women and youths, once marginalized in economic development plans, have become central to Kwara’s progress story. Through the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) and other empowerment schemes, thousands have accessed startup capital, vocational training, and digital skills—translating into jobs, business growth, and improved livelihoods in both urban and rural communities.
One of the boldest illustrations of this transformation is the Kwara Garment Factory, commissioned in August 2024. Equipped with advanced technology, including the only Oshima Cutting Machine in West Africa, the factory currently employs over 245 trained workers, with plans to scale up to 4,000. The factory produces around 6,000 garments daily and is rapidly becoming a key contributor to the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).
The impact of this project has been so significant that the Federal Government recently adopted it as a national model with the creation of the Cotton, Textile and Garment Development Board (CTGDB), domiciled in the Presidency. This step is part of a broader strategy aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy and combating insecurity through agribusiness, livestock development, and industrial growth—initiatives Kwara is already well ahead on.
Furthermore, value-chain projects such as the Shea Butter Processing Plant and the Innovation Hub (in partnership with HIS) are opening new doors for local producers and tech-savvy youths. These projects are creating a bridge between traditional industries and modern technology, allowing rural communities to connect with broader markets and digital opportunities.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has also strengthened rural development through its active participation in major national and international projects. Under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) program, the state is tackling land degradation and improving climate resilience in different parts of the state. These interventions promote sustainable land use, reforestation, and access to clean water.
Through the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Kwara is enhancing animal health services and boosting livestock productivity in multiple rural locations. This initiative has improved food security and increased rural incomes, particularly among women and pastoralist communities.
Additionally, the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) project, in collaboration with the African Development Bank and the Federal Government, is positioning Kwara as a regional hub for agro-industrial growth. With planned hubs and supported communities in various parts of the state, SAPZ will catalyze agribusiness investments, create jobs, and connect farmers to high-value markets.
As Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, I have observed firsthand how Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership is restoring dignity to rural life and building a foundation for sustainable development. His administration’s choices have not only improved living conditions but also inspired confidence in what purposeful governance can achieve.
Kwara’s story today is one of foresight, discipline, and people-focused leadership. And in these trying times, that makes all the difference.
As these transformative initiatives continue to expand, I call on all stakeholders—community leaders, private investors, development partners, and the good people of Kwara—to rally behind His Excellency’s bold rural development vision. Together, we can secure a future where no Kwara community is left behind.
… Calls for Ilorin circular road, masterplan review to ease population pressure and boost development
#KwaraRising
President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Project Managers of Nigeria (CIPMN), Chief Olabode Afolayan, has commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s urban renewal strategy, urging other Nigerian governors to adopt the Kwara model for sustainable development.
Speaking to journalists in Ilorin during the Easter season, Afolayan described Governor AbdulRazaq’s approach as a deliberate, gradual upgrade that does not overstretch existing infrastructure while positioning the state for future growth.
“There are quite a lot of things for other states to learn from Kwara, especially the government’s urban renewal strategy. It is being done patiently, and that’s the key to sustainable development,” he said.
Afolayan, a former president of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria, noted that Kwara’s infrastructure renewal is responding to the increasing population and urban growth in Ilorin, the state capital. He praised the Governor for taking necessary steps to modernize the city and improve living standards.
He emphasized the catalytic role of urban renewal in attracting investors and residents, adding that it will “make Kwara State an attractive place for people to settle and enjoy the best of life.”
Afolayan proposed a bold expansion of Ilorin’s infrastructure with the inclusion of a circular road network in the city’s master plan. According to him, a road connecting Offa through Ganmo, Sango, Kwara Polytechnic, Sobi, Oloje, Ogundele, and the airport, back to Ganmo, would decongest the city centre and allow seamless travel across key areas without entering Ilorin’s core.
“Such a circular road, though capital intensive, is crucial. It should be designed and embedded in the master plan for future administrations to build upon,” he added.
He also stressed the importance of a robust maintenance system for the new infrastructure projects, noting that “these initiatives cost a lot of money, and it is only right that proper maintenance structures are established to protect the investment.”
The CIPMN President expressed confidence in the vision of Governor AbdulRazaq, describing his leadership as forward-thinking and people-centred. “He has started well, and I wish him well,” Afolayan concluded.
When Nigeria adopted the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) in 1985, the echoes of its ramifications began to reverberate through every sector of the economy. As foreign companies exited en masse, the nation spiraled into a crisis rooted in economic mismanagement and a fundamental failure to build a productive economy. The grim reality is that we have spent an estimated $1.5 billion daily subsidizing fuel, endeavoring to artificially prop up the Naira against the dollar. What was the endgame of such ill-fated strategies? Did we believe that endless financial gymnastics could buoy a sinking ship? The ensuing consequences have laid bare the painful truth: our evasive tendencies have led us to the precipice of national disaster.
The trajectory became even more alarming as internal corruption and insecurity began rendering vast swathes of the nation ungovernable. Billions were looted from the coffers of the state, epitomized by the Dasuki scandal, yet we remained collectively blind to the consequences. When Boko Haram sought to overrun extensive regions in Borno, claiming dominion over four northern states, we expected merely a temporary aberration in our peace. Similarly, the escalating conflicts between Fulani herdsmen and farmers in Benue should have spelled the warning for imminent chaos. Did we not contemplate the futility of our neglect? The emergence of banditry, the paralysis of the Southeast economy by Biafra agitators, and the rampant vandalization of pipelines have culminated in a catastrophic erosion of both public trust and national wealth. Did we truly think that such a confluence of misfortunes would not yield dire repercussions?
These issues, deeply entrenched in Nigeria’s socio-political fabric, did not materialize overnight. They are the harvest of decades of negligence, corruption, and systemic failures that have been allowed to fester. Can we genuinely ascribe all this turmoil solely to the current administration? The question warrants a nuanced discussion.
As Nigeria grapples with the dire consequences of economic mismanagement, the recent shifts under President Tinubu’s leadership have sparked both criticism and debate. The elimination of fuel subsidies has stripped bare the façade of financial wellness, revealing the deeper malaise that has plagued the nation for years. We now find ourselves at a crucial juncture, where vulnerability and adversity demand reflection and action. Yet, as we endure this hardship, one must ask: who among the cacophony of critics possesses the intellectual rigor, global financial insight, and fortitude to make the kind of daunting decisions that Tinubu has dared to enact?
This is a pivotal moment—an inflection point that juxtaposes pain with necessity. It is easy to castigate leaders for decisions that ignite discomfort, yet it requires exceptional courage and vision to confront hard truths and embrace the transformative processes essential for recovery. The question remains: are we ready to face the reality of our circumstances? Are we genuinely prepared to rise to the occasion, understanding that the journey forward will demand sacrifice and unity?
Today, we stand amidst economic disarray, the era of financial cushioning is definitively over. The pain we endure is not merely hardship; it is a price we are compelled to pay for decades of neglect and mismanagement. As we forge ahead, it is imperative to recognize that the solutions will not emerge from superficial band-aids but from profound systemic changes rooted in accountability, transparency, and revitalization of our productive sectors.
While the current milieu of hardship feels insurmountable, there lies a silver lining: just as gold must undergo fire to emerge in radiant splendor, Nigeria, too, must navigate this crucible of challenges to reclaim its rightful place on the world stage. We are at a crossroads; the urgent call for introspection and decisive action is paramount. We can no longer afford to point fingers while remaining immovably entrenched in our own inertia. It is essential to coalesce as a nation, wielding our collective strength and determination to rebuild.
In doing so, we must embrace a steadfast commitment to truth, reform, and resilience. The path may be agonizing, but it is a journey we must undertake to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for generations yet to come. Are we ready to embrace this truth? Only time will tell, but the opportunity for renewal is before us, waiting for the courage to act.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq continues to raise the bar in governance with his people-focused approach to development in Kwara State. His leadership style is one that places emphasis on real impact, ensuring that policies and projects are not just about political showmanship but about actual benefits to the people. His administration has consistently shown a deep understanding of what the people need and has taken deliberate steps to address these issues.
One of the key areas where his leadership has been exemplary is in teacher recruitment. Unlike in the past when employment into the education sector was marred by favoritism and inefficiencies, the AbdulRazaq administration has redefined the process. The recruitment exercise for teachers in Kwara has been one of the smoothest in the state’s history, free of the usual controversies that often accompany government hiring processes.
The recruitment was strictly merit-based, ensuring that only qualified candidates were selected. This move was aimed at strengthening the quality of education in public schools, giving students access to competent and passionate teachers. Many applicants attested to how transparent and fair the process was, as there were no backdoor dealings or political interferences. This has helped restore public confidence in the government’s hiring system, as job seekers now believe that their chances depend solely on their qualifications and performance.
The focus on education goes beyond recruitment. Governor AbdulRazaq’s government has invested heavily in school infrastructure, ensuring that teachers and students have a conducive learning environment. Many schools that were previously dilapidated have been rehabilitated, and more instructional materials have been provided. This holistic approach to improving education shows a commitment to the future of Kwara.
His leadership extends to several other sectors. The governor has demonstrated a deep understanding of governance by engaging with citizens through various media platforms. He listens, observes, and takes action based on feedback from the people. A notable example is how he uses media discussions to gauge public sentiments on government policies and projects.
The governor’s performance has not gone unnoticed. His achievements have been widely recognized both within and outside Kwara State. The Journalist Hangoutanchors noted that his leadership is a refreshing departure from the norm, describing him as a leader who is genuinely interested in service. They emphasized that his style of governance, which involves listening to the people and taking decisive action, should be emulated by other leaders.
He has also received accolades from various organizations and stakeholders who have acknowledged his developmental strides. His administration’s transparency, accountability, and dedication to the people have earned him respect across political divides.
On TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout of February 27th, his administration was discussed, and the panelists had choice words for his style of governance. They noted his ability to stay connected with the people, listen to their concerns, and respond with policies that address their needs. One of the anchors described him as “a governor who understands governance in the real sense,” highlighting his strategic engagement with the public to ensure his policies align with their expectations.
The anchors also pointed out that his government is different from past administrations in how it communicates with the people. They emphasized that he does not shy away from constructive criticism and uses media platforms as a tool for improvement rather than a means of propaganda. This sets him apart as a leader who values the voice of the people and incorporates their views into decision-making.
His approach to governance is practical and focused on tangible results. Whether it is in education, infrastructure, health, or economic policies, there is a clear pattern of progress in Kwara State. Projects are not abandoned, promises are kept, and the government operates in a way that citizens can relate to and trust.
Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership is a refreshing departure from the norm. He has set a new standard for governance by prioritizing efficiency, transparency, and direct engagement with the people. If his current trajectory continues, Kwara will experience even greater development in the years to come.
In an era where political grandstanding often overshadows substance, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State has carved out a distinct governance style—one marked by quiet but impactful progress. His administration has faced challenges such as overcoming entrenched lawlessness in urban areas, addressing neglected infrastructure, and ensuring welfare programs reach marginalized communities. By implementing stringent urban planning laws, initiating comprehensive road rehabilitation projects, and expanding healthcare access, the administration has delivered tangible benefits to citizens. For instance, the enforcement of urban planning in Ilorin has curbed chaotic development, while the refurbishment of healthcare facilities has improved service delivery in rural areas, showcasing a governance style that prioritizes long-term, impactful solutions over superficial achievements.
Urban Renewal: Reshaping Kwara’s Capital
One of the hallmarks of AbdulRazaq’s administration is the urban renewal initiative, which has significantly transformed the landscape of Ilorin, the state capital. This initiative is not merely about aesthetics; it addresses long-standing issues of lawlessness and haphazard development that had plagued the city. By enforcing town planning laws and restoring order, the government has not only beautified the city but also laid the groundwork for sustainable development.
Driving through Taiwo Road, Unity, Challenge, and Ahmadu Bello Way, one cannot help but notice the transformation. These areas, once characterized by chaotic development, now exemplify order and modernity. Residents have expressed their delight at the improved road networks and aesthetic appeal, noting that the enhanced infrastructure has eased traffic flow and boosted local businesses. For instance, a shop owner in Unity remarked on how the organized environment has attracted more customers, while a resident of Challenge praised the reduction in congestion, making daily commutes more manageable. These testimonials highlight the tangible impact of the urban renewal efforts on everyday life. The enforcement of setbacks and adherence to approved building plans have been critical in achieving this transformation. The administration’s firm stance on these issues, despite initial resistance, underscores its commitment to long-term urban planning.
The government’s efforts in urban renewal have also fostered a sense of pride among residents. The new and improved infrastructure not only enhances the city’s aesthetic appeal but also boosts economic activities. The ongoing development of a Central Business District is a case in point. This area, spanning from the Challenge area through the Post Office to the Government House, is set to become a hub of economic activity, further cementing Ilorin’s status as a modern capital city.
In addition to these developments, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, recently visited Ilorin to inaugurate several key projects. Among them were two newly constructed flyovers, named in honor of the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the late General Tunde Idiagbon. These flyovers are expected to significantly enhance traffic flow and contribute to the city’s modernization efforts.
Furthermore, the First Lady commissioned an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Community Centre at the Kwara State College of Education in Ilorin. This project, a collaboration between the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aims to empower communities by providing access to digital resources and training.
Infrastructure Development: A Statewide Approach
While some critics argue that the administration’s focus has been primarily on Ilorin, a closer examination reveals a more balanced approach. Significant projects are underway across various districts, reflecting a commitment to statewide development. The selection and prioritization of these projects are based on a comprehensive needs assessment, which takes into account the unique challenges and requirements of each district. This ensures that resources are allocated effectively to address critical issues, whether it be improving road infrastructure in rural areas, upgrading healthcare facilities, or enhancing educational opportunities. By tailoring initiatives to meet the specific needs of diverse communities, the administration aims to foster inclusive and balanced growth throughout the state. For instance, in Oro district alone, there are numerous projects ranging from road infrastructure to healthcare and education.
Among the notable projects is the Kwara Sugar Film Factory along Ajase Ipo Road in Ilorin. This facility aims to reposition Kwara as a hub for the creative industry, fostering job creation and youth empowerment. Similarly, the Ilorin Innovation Hub is more than just a workspace; it is a catalyst for technological growth and collaboration among young innovators.
Another significant project is the Shea Butter Factory in Wozibe, Kaima Local Government Area. This initiative, in partnership with the World Trade Organization and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, aims to modernize shea butter processing. By adopting international standards, the project seeks to enhance the value chain and boost the local economy.
The Ilorin Visual Arts Centre, designed as an Institute for African Art and Film, is another bold initiative. It signifies a commitment to cultural preservation and the promotion of arts, positioning Kwara as a center for artistic expression in Nigeria.
Sustaining the Momentum
As the administration enters its final years, the focus remains on completing ongoing projects and laying the groundwork for future initiatives. The Smart City Plan, a component of the state’s master plan, exemplifies the forward-thinking approach of AbdulRazaq’s government. While some projects may extend beyond his tenure, the foundation being laid today ensures continuity and sustainability.
In conclusion, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s quiet yet impactful governance offers valuable lessons in leadership. By prioritizing substance over spectacle, he has been able to achieve significant milestones that promise long-term benefits for the people of Kwara State. As citizens, it is our collective responsibility to acknowledge these achievements and support the administration’s efforts to build a better Kwara for all.
The recent visit to Kwara State by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu to commission some landmark projects executed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq has ended criticisms by the opposition parties that no project had been commissioned by his administration.
One of the criticisms against Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq by the opposition parties in Kwara State was the non-commissioning of “any project” since his assumption of office. But the negative impression was confined to the dustbin of history when the wife of President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, visited the 58 years old state on the invitation of the governor between January 28 and 30, 2025, and commissioned about 10 major projects built by the administration. The list was not exhausted as other projects are ongoing with the expansive 10-storey building of the Kwara State Internal Revenue Services (KWIRS) becoming a reference point.
The monumental projects, named after some iconic Nigerian personalities, mostly of Kwaran descent, dwarfed the initial criticisms by some Kwarans. However, the critics, rather than acknowledge the governor’s efforts, held the position that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu rather than his wife should have paid the working visit to the state “if there was no love lost between the governor and the president.”
The kennel of the commissioning was the opening of two overhead bridges – one at the Tanke end of the state capital to decongest the route to the University of Ilorin and the other at Unity Roundabout .
On the entourage of the First Lady were the wives of the Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief of Staff to the President and the wives of some state governors.
Senator Tinubu’s first point of call was the Kwara State University of Education, where she inaugurated the ICT Community Centre built under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA); Intensive Care Unit, and Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, among others.
She then paid homage to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari at his palace. The Emir applauded her for her unflinching support to her husband’s government. He led a prayer session for the success of the administration. The visitor thanked the Emir for his encouragement to both the President and the state governor, appealing for more of such in future.
Thereafter, she inaugurated the newly constructed Unity Flyover, which Governor Abdulrazaq named after the emir, an honour anchored on his support for the administration, his peaceful reign, his fatherly role in the emirate and beyond, and his support for the socio-economic development of Ilorin.
Along with the ICT Centre built under the RHI at the Kwara State University of Education, Tinubu also inaugurated the ultramodern Intensive Care Unit, Executive Ward, and Gen. Tunde Idiagbon Flyover.
She also inaugurated other iconic projects of the governor such as the Innovation Hub; Visual Arts Centre; and the Garment Factory – all reputed to be the best of their kinds in the country and African sub-region.
Speaking at the inauguration of the ICT Centre, Mrs. Tinubu commended the governor and his wife for building it, expressing belief that youths and women would benefit from it.
She said: “I have been informed that these centres have greatly benefited our youths, especially women and girls, by providing invaluable opportunities for growth and empowerment. I am glad to hear about the success stories and the opportunities these centres afford members of these various communities that have benefitted from this intervention.
“The knowledge of ICT serves as a significant tool to empower communities, especially women, to break traditional barriers and access new opportunities by equipping themselves with ICT skills.
“So far, NITDA has constructed four Community ICT Centres in total. This centre we are commissioning today is the second, while Benue and Oyo centres are ready to be commissioned soon.
“Other Digital Economy Centres have also been fully equipped with computers and other ICT materials in five states, namely Jigawa, Ebonyi, Cross River, Oyo, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory.
“Ten additional Digital Economy Centres in Abia, Edo, Delta, Ondo, Kano, Katsina, Lagos, Nasarawa, Yobe, and Zamfara are also being fully equipped with ICT materials and will be ready for commissioning soon.”
In her remarks, Mrs. AbdulRazaq said the new edifice would speak to the many engagements and partnerships of the First Lady to adequately support Nigerians while pursuing their goals and seeking to improve their means of livelihood.
She, therefore, enjoined the host school and users alike to protect the facility and take full advantage of its services towards developing themselves and promoting positive causes.
“While this milestone will continue to up the status of women, youths and other users of the facility, it is also creating pathways into making Nigeria a digitally empowered nation as well as fostering a technology enabled equitable future for all Nigerians,” she said.
On his part, the governor appreciated President Tinubu and the First Lady for what he called “an impactful initiative.”
He said the ICT project would not just be an investment in infrastructure but also a powerful statement about the essential role of technology in man’s survival and progress in the digital era.
He added: “Technology is here to stay, and the only path forward is to aggressively invest in the skills and infrastructure that will secure a prosperous future for our people.
“As we commission this ICT Community Centre today, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to Her Excellency and the Renewed Hope Initiative for this remarkable investment in our community and youth.”
Besides, AbdulRazaq commended the unwavering support of the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, towards realising the set objectives.
At the Innovation Hub, a facility that is designed to be Kwara’s version of the Silicon Valley to raise generations of techies and build skills that resolve local developmental challenges, Tinubu said: “I am so, so glad with what I have seen. This is truly amazing, and I am going back to tell the President what I have seen. You (governor) are a man truly in love with your people. You have really done so well.
“What I have seen here is borne out of a clear dream about where the governor wants his people to be. This dream is coming alive. We can stay here forever. You have enough projects to showcase, and I am indeed very proud of you.”
Tinubu ended her three-day visit to Kwara with a tour of the Garment Factory, another signature project of the governor.
She interacted with workers of the factory, telling them to make the most of the foresight of the governor by working hard.
“What your governor has done is to create opportunities for enterprise and productive engagement of youths and women. I want you to work hard and become successful. I’m here purposely to encourage you to make this a huge success for yourself and for your state,” she said in Yoruba language.
She later gave the hundreds of workers a stipend of N20,000 each.
The state Chairman of the PDP, Babatunde Mohammed, described the naming of some of the edifices after the personalities as good but faulted the governor for acting as if he was the one that built all of them from the scratch, particularly the stadium.
“Credit must go to Innih and such ex-governor Bukola Saraki who carried out major renovations on the edifices and turned them all to modern event centres,” he said.
Besides, he criticised the leaving out of the doyens of Kwaran politics like the late Olusola Saraki, Chief Sunday Olawoyin, and Chief Cornelius Adebayo from the list of those that the projects were named after.
However, the APC chairman in the state, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, said Mohammed was putting up “destructive criticisms against what they could not do when in power for 16 years but which we have successfully done under a period of six years. We still have many other projects under construction. In fact, many of them are nearing completion as we speak. Many deserving Kwarans will still benefit from the naming processes.”
However, a chieftain of the APC in the state, Akogun Iyiola Oyedepo, has criticised the governor for allegedly concentrating projects in the metropolis instead of spreading them across all the senatorial districts in the state.
Oyedepo said: “The visit of the First Lady to Kwara should now be an eye opener to her to observe what some of us had been saying for some years. Our major concern is that projects are being over concentrated in the state capital. We have three senatorial districts in Kwara so how do we develop other districts if this is the way we always want to follow? So certainly, some people are being neglected.”
Another chieftain of the party, Chief Wole Oke, supported some of the views expressed by Oyedepo, describing them as those of the majority of the party members in the state.
He advised the governor to use his remaining years in office to spread development to other areas of the state.
Regardless of how they hide and downplay it every now and then, Kwarans already know Senator Saliu Mustapha is nursing the ambition to become Governor of Kwara State come 2027. While there is nothing strange in nursing an ambition, it is evil to play dangerous and cunning politics capable of tearing lineage apart, setting the Emirate for war, and destroying the party that gave you the platform to be whatever you are presently.
This barbaric politics is exactly what Mustapha and his team are playing, and it’s so foolhardy of them to think it can sail through. While it may give them emotive sympathy in the beginning, people will later come to see the truth, then it backfires heavily. Nobody likes to be taken for a ride!
Yesterday, we read reports (obviously from commissioned media outlets) of how the Sulu-Gambari Pavillion was stopped by the Kwara State Government. They slanted the story to give sympathy to the camp of the lawmaker. The truth later emerged when KW-GIS issued its official statement, that the project, facilitated by Mustapha, failed to follow due protocol and get necessary regulatory approvals.
I recall that this is not the first time. That was exactly what the senator’s camp did during the Gaa Aremu-Isale Jagun road construction. They bypassed the state authorities, but were quick to play the victim card.
It is even more laughable that after commissioning slanted media narratives to milk political capital and sympathy, the senator would formally come out to direct that the right thing be done. This is being clever by half. The development can only mean two things, and none is good for the image Mustapha is seeking for himself.
On the one hand, it could be interpreted to mean incompetence and mediocrity, which many political commentators had argued would characterise the representation of Mustapha. Isn’t he proving the assumption right with examples in these flagrant disregards for basic protocol and laws overtime, and what appears to be a lacklustre performance compared to the tempo set by his predecessor?
On the other hand, it could well be perceived as a mischief. You disregard protocol and regulations to curry public sympathy, and then later come out to acknowledge they were truly ignored. Now, that is impunity. Or does the senator and his team expect to get a special treatment? Saliu Mustapha should not forget he is a lawmaker; more reason he should follow laws and protocols. If as a lawmaker, you are too big to follow the laws, and basic rules and regulations, then you do not know your onions.
I must also underline that the political strategy of using the voice of Jacob and the hands of Esau is old-fashioned and dead-on-arrival. Everyone knows who does what. The senator should stop being a weakling and man up to his agenda. This desperation is now seen everywhere!
There is a reason Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Sardauna of Ilorin, enjoys his solo moves within or outside of the state capital: he, among other things, fears the genuflection and the praise-singing that may get in the way of his primary assignment if everyone is in the know.
That habit is grossly misunderstood, but he is contented with seeing things without the fillers and being able to focus on his work while attracting lesser attention to himself.
Like every human being, he welcomes being accorded his due without the praises that come with the political environment. He scoffs at sycophancy and purposeless exposure. Instead, he encourages constructive criticisms for better governance outcomes.
This attitude explains his disapproval of celebrations on his birthdays as a sitting Governor. He fears that the sudden celebration does not last and there is no basis encouraging it. This is fine, although there is a thin line between telling the story of an individual for posterity and buttering them up for whatever purpose.
Regardless, I am persuaded by Edward Said’s statement that ‘nations themselves are narrations. The power to narrate, or block other narratives from forming and emerging, is very important to culture’.
As he clocked 65 a few hours ago, bookmakers have a lot to document about the seventh democratic Governor of Kwara State whose tenure is synonymous with unmatched rebuilding and modernisation of the capital city Ilorin, rural development, youth and women empowerment, gender inclusion, and countless economic initiatives that have steadily put the people back to productive work.
Apart from his legacy projects, which are unrivalled in the history of the state, he has effected profound psychosocial reforms with his approach to governance, which many consider strange. His style and personal discipline have put government appointees on a leash.
Along with his no-siren movement and the spartan style, his decision to discontinue the everyday gathering and merriment in Government House, a relic of the past years, is a strong message that attention must now be paid to higher productivity.
A party chieftain recently told me: ‘That style appeared painful and distant at the beginning, but it is really reshaping the mindset of our people. Except for a few people, you hardly see any crowd hanging around the party secretariat these days except during important events. It is a good thing. It simply tells our people to do something much more meaningful, rather than loitering around politicians. It is good for everyone as it restores the dignity of the human person, and I hope his successor does the same.’
The Governor is very nostalgic about the Ilorin of his childhood. He strongly believes in restoring sanity to the GRA, especially — devoid of the health-shattering loud disco music in the evenings— and much of what ought to constitute the central business district of the capital city. A story is told of an old couple who complained that their health had deteriorated with some unhealthy practices within the GRA, a narrative that apparently aligns with his sentiment.
This is a reason he feels that the Kwara Hotel, a fit-for-purpose relaxation facility outside of residentials, must regain its status along with other well-located premium hospitality facilities in the state. This is a critical public health issue, as it is about appropriate land use and sustainable living.
His reforms are not without its critics. Yet true leaders, once convinced of the genuineness of their actions, should not fear being heckled. The sense of pride and the excitement with which Kwarans have received the new look of the capital city have drowned out the criticisms from the political opposition.
Abdulrazaq is a typical leader trapped at the intersection of history, the current realities of the digital age, and the capacity of his own people, Kwarans. This is why his decisions are mostly dictated by the geography, demography, and history of the state, sometimes ruffling feathers.
Restoring the proper land use and aesthetics of the GRA and environs reflects his interrogation of history, such as the location and naming of the Sugar Factory film studios to remind younger generations of the Tate & Lyle. The garment factory, the largest in Nigeria in one single location, brought to memory the legacy of cloth-making and enterprise for which Kwarans were known, while the bespoke Innovation Hub speaks to his understanding of how technology has redesigned how we live in this century.
Governor Abdulrazaq understands that Kwara has one of the largest concentration of shea trees in the country, explaining his establishment of two factories in Kaiama and Baruten in the shea belt, the former being one of the biggest in the country.
He is currently rebuilding the Patigi Motel to resuscitate the regatta, a dream now strengthened by the establishment of the Kampe National Park in the same axis. The Governor is fascinated by the successes of the Okin Biscuits in Offa and Jebba paper mills, but his dream for the two is hampered by boardroom politics and decay in which they are long trapped. The visual arts centre heralds his vision for creativity, tourism, and sports development, explaining the investment in the Owu Water Fall road, eight-winged squash court, international conference centre, and the resuscitation of the indoor sports hall, table tennis area, among others.
Along with dozens of rural roads that connect towns and agrarian communities, the Governor has recently delivered the Osi and Ilesha Baruba campuses of Kwara State University, a pointer to his effort to ensure statewide development and roll back rural urban migration.
The focus on Offa and Lafiagi Stadia this year will strengthen this effort, as would the ongoing Shonga ICT Centre and the upcoming rehabilitation of the Patigi Cultural Centre.
He believes that the capital city is filled up and growing informally. This has consequences for sustainable living in the future. The Ilorin smart city, his brainchild, is to allow for a well-planned physical development.
But his dreams will require a successor who views Kwara as a state in a race to fulfil its destiny, bolstered by its geography, culture, and the lofty aspirations of its people. From health, education, agribusiness, social protection, and infrastructure, his successor will be lucky to inherit a template to move faster, possibly less encumbered by the hugely entrenched prebendary politics that stared Abdulrazaq in the face.
His achievements are a new record breaker in the annals of Kwara. He has hired up to 8,600 teachers between 2019 and now, the highest that any (Kwara) administration has employed since 1999, while his KwaraLEARN continues to improve literacy, numeracy, and general learning outcomes.
Abdulrazaq’s handling of sensitive issues of national importance proves his bonafide as a true leader who, like Konrad Adenauer, prefers dialogue, strategic humility, consensus-building, and patience in place of grandstanding and media show. In deference to the President, whom he holds in high esteem, and in national interest, he convinced his colleagues of the need to work out a consensus tax policy for Nigeria. He had acted in the same way following the subsidy removal, the transitional difficulties, and the multifaceted responses to mitigate the effects on the public. He proved that such sensitive moments require leaders to act with extreme caution — a quality that speaks to his standing as the Sardauna of the southernmost emirate in Nigeria.
▪︎ Rafiu Ajakaye is Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
In an era where political leadership often seems to be detached from the everyday realities of citizens, there is a stark contrast presented by the leadership of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State. His tenure has consistently highlighted the importance of empathy, integrity, and a sincere commitment to serving the people. As members of the National and State Executive of the Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group gather to celebrate another year of his life, it is crucial to reflect on the immense value he brings to the table and how he stands as a beacon of hope for the masses.
Kwara State, like many regions across Nigeria, faces numerous challenges ranging from economic hardship, infrastructure deficits, and social injustices. It is often a struggle for the populace to find leadership that is not only approachable but actively seeks to uplift their quality of life. This is where Governor Abdulrazaq distinguishes himself. His life’s work has been characterized by genuine engagement with the needs of his constituents. For many citizens, he serves as a reminder of what compassionate governance should embody—forward-thinking policies that prioritize inclusivity, economic development, and social welfare.
As we celebrate the birthday of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, we honor not just a leader, but a committed visionary whose dedication has changed the landscape of governance in Kwara State. His administration is a testament to what it means to lead with empathy and sincere purpose. From initiatives aimed at boosting local economies to investments in education and health care, the Governor continues to reinforce the significance of social responsibility. He embodies a leadership style that not only addresses systemic issues but uplifts the hearts and spirits of the citizens by showing them that their voices truly matter.
On this special day, the National and State Executive members of the Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group express their heartfelt gratitude for the Governor’s unwavering commitment and dedication to the people of Kwara State. We celebrate his efforts, which resonate across the state, reminding us all of the importance of service, empathy, and integrity in leadership. May this birthday be a reflection of his impactful journey so far and an inspiring impetus for the continued progress of Kwara State. Happy birthday, Governor Abdulrahman! Your leadership is, indeed, a blessing to the people of Kwara.
