…Governor commiserates with victims’ families, pledges support through KWASSIP
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the weekend visited Babanla, Oke-Ode and other communities in Ifelodun Local Government Area to reassure residents of his administration’s commitment to strengthening security and protecting livelihoods.
The Governor, accompanied by security chiefs including the Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, and the State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, commiserated with families affected by the recent attacks and pledged that government would prevent further breaches. He also directed the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) to provide immediate support to those affected.
“We are here in Babanla today to commiserate with you over the recent incident. We reassure you and other communities that we will ensure this does not happen again. It is a sad incident which we are working hard to curtail,” AbdulRazaq said.
The Governor explained that the influx of criminal elements into the area was a spillover from increased military pressure in other parts of the country, but assured residents that security forces are determined to flush them out.
“You can see that the security commanders are also here, and you have witnessed the return of normalcy in the past week. We will make sure everything is in order and you live in peace,” he added.
The Governor was received in Babanla by the Oba of Babanla, Oba Aliyu Adegboyega Yusuf Arojojoye II, who commended the administration’s swift intervention and the federal government’s support in restoring calm.
“Your visit today is a great relief for our people. We commend your actions to restore peace. The attack led to the loss of nine motorcycles, food items, and phones, but with your assurances, our people can now feel safer,” the monarch said.
Also on the Governor’s entourage were the Senior Special Assistant on Security, Muyideen Aliyu, and Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Femi Yusuf.
…Abdulrazaq Urges Vigilance as Security Operations Target Gunmen in Northern Kwara
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has announced intensified efforts to curb criminal activities in the state’s hinterlands, particularly in the northern district, where recent gunmen attacks have caused unrest. In a statement released on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaiye, the governor called on residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities to security forces and state authorities.
Abdulrazaq praised President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s security agencies for their recent success in apprehending top leaders of the Ansaru terrorist group, describing the arrests as a testament to the administration’s commitment to combating terrorism. He highlighted the role of intelligence-driven operations in achieving these arrests, calling them a “significant victory for the nation.”
“We commend the President, the National Security Adviser, and the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces, including the army, air force, navy, and police, for their remarkable efforts,” Abdulrazaq said. “These achievements strengthen our resolve to support national security initiatives on all fronts.”
The governor expressed optimism that the clampdown on terrorist leaders would enhance ongoing efforts to eliminate criminality across Nigeria. He reassured residents that the state government is working closely with security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and properties. “No effort is being spared to protect our communities,” he emphasized.
Abdulrazaq urged citizens to remain calm but alert, noting that the lack of public details about specific security operations does not indicate inaction. “Significant work is being done behind the scenes, including intelligence gathering, arrests, and attack prevention,” he explained. To bolster security, additional operatives, including forest guards, are being deployed to vulnerable areas.
The governor also directed the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) to assess the needs of communities affected by recent incidents, ensuring support is provided to local leaders and residents.
Abdulrazaq concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to eliminating threats and maintaining peace in Kwara. “We are intensifying efforts to stop these cowardly criminal acts and ensure the safety of our people,” he said.
…Governor reassures residents, directs KWASSIP to support affected persons
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has applauded President Bola Tinubu and Nigeria’s security agencies for the arrest of top leaders of terrorist groups, describing the breakthrough as a major boost to the nation’s counterterrorism efforts.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Governor said the capture of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, leader of Ansaru, and his deputy Mahmud al-Nigeri (popularly called Malam Mahmuda), demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations under the present administration. “These arrests are a big win for the country,” AbdulRazaq said. “We commend the President, the National Security Adviser, and the leadership of the Armed Forces, Police, and other agencies for this feat. On our part, we will continue to support their efforts on all fronts.”
The Governor reassured residents of Kwara that his administration is working closely with security operatives to neutralize threats and protect lives and property. He stressed that the absence of public details about ongoing operations should not be mistaken for inaction. “A lot is being done behind the scenes in collaboration with security agencies, leading to intelligence gathering, arrests, and prevention of planned attacks,” he said. “Our people must remain alert but calm, and report any suspicious activities promptly.”
AbdulRazaq disclosed that more operatives, including forest guards, are being deployed to safeguard rural areas. He also directed the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) to immediately take inventory of affected persons for support, working with community leaders to ensure accountability. The Governor further urged residents to remain vigilant, cooperative, and confident in the renewed efforts to curb insecurity across the state and beyond.
… Governor reaffirms commitment to stronger security measures across the state
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Saturday held a strategic security meeting with senior officers of the army, police, and other security agencies in Kwara South.
The meeting followed reviewed security reports from various stakeholders, including the outcome of a recent routine gathering of Kwara South Leaders convened by Engr. Dr. Johnson Adewumi. Present were Irepodun Local Government Chairman, Hon. Abdulazeez Yakub; Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju; Prince Olanrewaju Shuaib (SOFAB); and top security officers.
The Governor commended the Nigerian Army, police, local vigilantes, and community leaders for their collaboration, which he said has been vital in maintaining peace and safety across the state.
He directed security agencies to maintain a lockdown in areas showing signs of potential threats, stressing the importance of keeping Kwara inhospitable to criminal elements. He also assured residents that the state government is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser to strengthen security measures.
Governor AbdulRazaq urged residents to remain calm and support ongoing operations by security forces, assuring them that all necessary steps are being taken to safeguard lives and property.
…Security Forces Neutralize Threats and Rescue Victims in Major Operation
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A robust security campaign in Kwara State has restored calm to Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas, with the capture of a key criminal figure, Tambaya, and several of his associates. The operation, targeting lawbreakers responsible for recent disturbances, has significantly reduced threats in the region.
Authorities confirmed that over 15 individuals, including Tambaya, a central figure in a violent assault on security personnel and local vigilantes in Gada, Lafiagi, were detained during the crackdown. In one confrontation, Tambaya and eight others were apprehended, while several members of his gang were neutralized during exchanges with security forces. The operation also led to the rescue of two kidnapped individuals and the recovery of N11 million, believed to be proceeds from criminal activities.
The initiative, driven by the Kwara State government in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser, state security leaders, and local vigilante groups, underscores a determined effort to dismantle criminal networks. The successful raids have bolstered safety and stability, allowing residents to resume normal activities with renewed confidence.
… Joint Task Force Moves Detainees to Abuja for Interrogation
Kwara State has launched a major security offensive across border communities, resulting in the arrest of over 20 suspects linked to arms trafficking and criminal networks. The operation, coordinated with the Office of the National Security Adviser, involves nearly 400 special operatives focusing on Ifelodun, Edu, and Patigi Local Government Areas.
Security sources confirmed that ten high-value detainees have been transferred to Abuja along with recovered ammunition, while the operation has already secured the release of several kidnap victims in Babanla and surrounding areas. The crackdown implements Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s recent pledge to eliminate criminal hideouts in state forests.
Authorities have established cross-border coordination with Kogi and Niger states to prevent suspect movement. “Eruku axis is on complete lockdown, and all exit routes are being monitored,” revealed a government official involved in the operation.
Residents are urged to report suspicious activities via emergency security lines as operations expand to other identified hotspots. The measures follow increasing security breaches in Kwara’s northern agricultural communities.
… AbdulRazaq meets top military commanders in latest push to fortify Kwara against criminal elements
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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq convened a high-level security meeting with senior Nigerian Army officers on Friday as part of ongoing efforts to bolster safety across the state. The closed-door session at Ahmadu Bello House in Ilorin brought together Brigadier General Daniel Dieke and three other top military commanders to review security operations.
This marks the governor’s second strategic engagement with security chiefs in three months, following his April meeting with Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede. The discussions focused on enhancing inter-agency coordination and maintaining Kwara’s status as a “hostile environment for non-state actors,” according to a government statement.
The Nigerian Army has acknowledged the governor’s consistent support, including recent donations of operational vehicles and motorcycles to the 22 Armoured Brigade. Security sources indicate the latest talks prioritized intelligence-sharing mechanisms and rapid response strategies for Kwara’s border communities.
“Kwara remains committed to proactive security investments that protect lives and livelihoods,” Governor AbdulRazaq stated after the meeting. The administration’s #SaferKwara initiative has reportedly reduced criminal incidents by 37% since 2023 through strengthened community policing and technology-aided surveillance.
Military representatives reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate with civil authorities, particularly in monitoring flashpoint areas along Kwara’s northern and southern boundaries. The meeting concluded with plans for joint military-civilian patrols ahead of the upcoming farming season.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is a man of many firsts. Before public office, he established First Fuels Limited and NOPA Oil Services, becoming the first indigenous company to import crude oil and petroleum products into Nigeria. That groundbreaking feat was achieved at a relatively younger age.
After making a success of the private sector, AbdulRazaq ran consistently and progressively for public office, with the story ending up in another first. He emerged the first gubernatorial candidate to defeat the then-reigning dynasty in 2019, ushering in a new era in Kwara State.
Since being at the helm of affairs, Governor AbdulRazaq has gone on to achieve many firsts on the governance front. He has created the enabling environment for glittering records to be broken by the state, repositioning Kwara as a shining model of a first-generation state.
The victory of Kwara United Football Club at the recently concluded 2025 Federation Cup is the latest addition to the long list of firsts recorded under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The win has been widely celebrated by sons and daughters of the state because it is both historic and symbolic. Since the creation of Kwara State in 1967, no football club from the state has won the federation cup. The team officially will be representing Nigeria in the 2025/2026 CAF Confederation Cup.
As evident by his morale-boosting attendance in the stand yesterday, it is instructive to note that the recent win was not by happenstance, it is a reward for deliberate investments, intentional strategies, and quality attention paid to the sports sector by the sports-loving Governor AbdulRazaq. His attitude and approach to other sectors is similar, and there have also been fruitful results to show for it.
Just a day to the Kwara United historic win, Kwara students who represented the state at the 26th edition of the presidential debate (senior category) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, bested their peers nationwide to emerge winner of the coveted contest. Like the Federation Cup, that was also the first time Kwara students would be leading the senior category of the presidential debate. However, their juniors in the basic category have brought the trophy home three times in a row. They won the three in succession for the first time under Governor AbdulRazaq.
With his transformative policies and programmes in the education sector, especially the tech-based KwaraLEARN, Governor AbdulRazaq is actively supporting younger ones in Kwara State with facilities that give them a head start in school and life.
AbdulRazaq also cracked the glass ceiling. He appointed a 56.25% female majority cabinet, a first not only in Nigeria but also in West Africa. Under this category, he appointed the first female commissioner for finance in the history of the state. He also appointed the first female Chairman for the State Internal Revenue Service. And many others. Women now feel so empowered in the state, and are encouraged to aspire to anything they wish in life.
It is also on record that AbdulRazaq is the first Governor to implement the minimum wage twice in office. Before his coming, the implementation of minimum wage across cadres for civil servants is believed by many to be usually delayed and chaotic. In contrast, Kwara was one of the top 10 states to implement the last minimum wage in Nigeria.
AbdulRazaq is also the first Kwara Governor to construct two flyovers, the state-of-the-art infrastructure that have made bold additions to the artery and aesthetics of the state capital.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq also created KWASSIP, an innovative strategy to reduce poverty, empower the citizens financially, and promote social security. KWASSIP is Kwara’s first ever institutionalised social protection scheme—and it was equally dubbed the largest to be owned by a subnational government—with young, old, indigent, enterprising Kwarans benefitting hugely from it since establishment.
AbdulRazaq is the first governor to take budget preparation session outside of the traditional bureaucratic offices. In 2021, Kwara State Government began to host townhall meetings across the three senatorial districts with diverse stakeholders to gather imput and feedback from the citizens to make the budget process more inclusive and ensure it addresses the needs of the communities.
Access to information and awareness are key ingredients to fostering unity and strengthening democracy. The first radio, private or public, in Kwara North was also created by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. This helps to bridge the information gap between the government and the people in the hinterlands.
According to the Global Startup Ecosystem Index Report 2025 by @StartupBlink, Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State, debuted in the world’s most comprehensive start-up ecosystem map for the first time ever this year. Right under AbdulRazaq, Kwara waltzed into 6th in Nigeria, and featured 885th in the global top 1000 ranking. Some development observers and temperate analysts have likened the transformation to one of the wonders of democracy for a state widely renowned as a conservative, traditional civil servant economy barely six years ago.
The haul of laurels for Kwara under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq can only swell as he goes on to complete his term. But six years in, he is being the leader of many firsts in building sustainable growth and development.
•Abdullateef is the Senior Special Assistant on Communication to Kwara Governor
…Gov AbdulRazaq’s Initiative Expands to Target 7,500 Youths, Boosts Tech Education in Public Schools
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Kwara State has onboarded 5,503 students in its Coding and Digital Literacy Program, marking a significant stride in Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s agenda to position the state as a regional tech hub. Hon. Kayode Ishola, Special Assistant to the Governor on Digital Innovations, disclosed this on Sunday, announcing the program’s expansion to 50 public secondary schools with a revised target of 7,500 students by 2025.
Launched as a pilot in 2024 with 684 students across six schools, the initiative—now the largest state-led digital education program in Nigeria—equips youths with skills in coding, computational thinking, artificial intelligence, and digital literacy using existing school infrastructure. As of April 25, 2025, 73.4% of the target has been met, with participation across senatorial districts: Kwara North (1,222), Kwara South (2,186), and Kwara Central (2,095). Gender inclusivity remains a highlight, with 53.4% female (2,939) and 46.6% male (2,564) trainees.
“The program will resume seamlessly on Monday, May 5, 2025, to deliver future-ready skills as schools begin their third term,” Ishola stated, emphasizing the administration’s focus on making public schools “competitive and desirable” in tech education. Participants will receive Certificates of Participation, while schools get commendations and prompt remuneration for their roles.
The initiative, praised by groups like Women in Tech and KidsTech Africa, aligns with AbdulRazaq’s broader vision as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. Partnerships with the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development, and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology, further underscore its cross-sector impact.
“This program is a testament to Kwara’s commitment to innovation and youth empowerment,” the statement added, noting its role in bridging the gap between public institutions and high-cost private tech training.
… Military delegation tours state-owned garment facility as part of study on grassroots intelligence and internal security
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The Kwara Garment Factory in Ilorin on Monday welcomed participants of Senior Course 47 from the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, Kaduna State, as part of their study tour of Kwara State.
Led by Colonel Usman Hashim Muhammed, the delegation comprised senior officers from various branches of the Nigerian Armed Forces and allied nations. They were received by the Managing Director of the factory, Hajia Bukola Adedeji, who guided them through the facility’s operations.
In her welcome remarks, Hajia Adedeji emphasized the factory’s critical role in driving industrialization, creating employment opportunities, and supporting Kwara’s economic diversification agenda. The visitors toured the production line—from fabric cutting to garment finishing—interacting with staff and observing the factory’s modern machinery in action.
The visit also featured the presence of the Permanent Secretary, General Services, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Ganiyu Shuaib, who noted that the tour was part of a broader initiative to expose participants to key institutions in the state and expand their understanding of governance and development processes.
Colonel Muhammed commended the state government and the factory management for the warm reception and operational excellence. He said the visit, under the theme “Harnessing Grassroots Intelligence for Enhancing Internal Security,” was designed to explore the intersection of economic development and national security.
He highlighted the factory’s contributions to youth empowerment and poverty reduction through job creation, stressing the value of such initiatives in fostering peace and stability.
Interactive sessions between course participants and factory staff underlined how grassroots economic enterprises can bolster internal security by reducing unemployment and encouraging civic engagement.
The AFCSC delegation was presented with branded souvenirs, including T-shirts and caps, in appreciation of their visit.
