…Governor AbdulRazaq Approves International Standard Facilities in Sports Infrastructure Push
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Kwara State has commenced comprehensive rehabilitation work at the Olofa Stadium in Offa, marking the first major upgrade of the sporting facility in recent years. The project, approved by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq during the State Executive Council meeting, includes installation of alternative power supply, expanded pavilion capacity, water-sprinkler systems, and international-standard natural grass turf.
Additional improvements feature a solar-powered borehole and professional pitch upgrades that will transform the stadium into a fully equipped sporting venue. The development continues the administration’s sustained investment in sports infrastructure, following earlier renovations at Kwara State Stadium Complex, Indoor Sports Hall, and specialized courts for tennis, baseball, and squash.
Offa residents and football enthusiasts have welcomed the renovation, noting the potential to inspire young athletes and increase community sports participation.
…As government upgrades 32-sport complex, Offa and Lafiagi stadia
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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has been commended for what stakeholders describe as the largest and most comprehensive investment in sports infrastructure in the history of the state.
Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Coach Bola Magaji, said the administration’s massive renovation of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin — including the Pa Gabriel Ladipo Indoor Sports Hall which alone cost over ₦2 billion — has repositioned Kwara as a major sports destination in Nigeria.
“This indoor sports hall alone has gulped over ₦2bn. Government has also invested in the football field, tennis court, squash court, and several others. Not many sectors have enjoyed as much support as sports from His Excellency AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq in the last six years,” Magaji said during a media tour of the stadium by members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council.
He described the stadium as unmatched in Nigeria for its scope and design, housing facilities for 32 different sports in one complex — a feat, he said, that neither Lagos, Abuja, nor Ibadan stadia can match.
“Our sports complex is the only one in Nigeria where you can play almost every sport within a single location except golf. Abuja has packages A and B, but even those don’t compare to what we have here,” he added.
Magaji said the administration’s investment is not limited to the state capital, citing the ongoing reconstruction of the Offa and Lafiagi stadia as part of the Governor’s plan to decentralize sporting facilities and give equal opportunities to athletes across senatorial districts.
He noted that the state’s performance in national competitions has significantly improved under the AbdulRazaq administration, rising from 23rd to 5th place in recent National Sports Festivals — the best performance in Kwara’s history.
“The Governor has given us all the necessary encouragement, financially and morally. Some of our athletes who left Kwara before are now eager to return because of how much the Governor has changed the face of sports in the state,” Magaji said.
He also praised the Governor’s athlete reward policy, which grants ₦1 million for gold medalists, ₦500,000 for silver, and ₦300,000 for bronze winners. Coaches and officials also receive incentives, while top-performing athletes, including those with disabilities, have been gifted brand new cars.
At the Kwara Football Academy (KFA), Magaji lauded the Governor for renovating hostels, dining halls, and clinics to enhance student welfare.
Students of the academy — Abdullahi Hassan, Saad Ahmad, and Adnan Muhammad-Akanbi — described the facilities as among the best in West Africa, noting that the structured academic and training programmes have improved their development both as students and athletes.
“I love football, and I chose KFA because it is one of the best academies in Nigeria,” said Hassan.
Ahmad added: “KFA is one of the best in West Africa. They take good care of us. We have good accommodation, reliable electricity, and a well-equipped medical facility.”
Magaji concluded that Governor AbdulRazaq’s long-term vision for sports development has placed Kwara among Nigeria’s leading sporting states, creating opportunities for young talents and strengthening the local economy through sports tourism.
…Athletes deliver strong performances in para-powerlifting, cycling, swimming, karate, and table tennis
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Team Kwara athletes are making their mark at the ongoing 9th edition of the National Youth Games (NYG), holding at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, with a haul of gold, silver, and bronze medals across several categories.
Ridwan Adebayo powered to victory in the 49kg Para-powerlifting event, clinching a gold medal for the state. His win was followed by another golden moment from cycling champion Abdulrasaq Falilat, who triumphed in the women’s road race to secure Kwara’s first gold in cycling at this year’s Games.
In swimming, Team Kwara earned two bronze medals. Ojo Shammah impressed in the 100m butterfly (female category) to claim a spot on the podium, while the girls’ 4×100m medley relay team also battled strongly to win bronze.
Para-table tennis added another medal to the tally, with Ridwan Mustapha securing bronze in the boys’ singles event after a spirited performance against his Abia State opponent in the semi-final.
Kwara’s karate team also delivered medals despite tough challenges. Awe David secured the state’s first medal in the sport, winning silver in the Kumite male (-50kg) category after narrowly losing to Edo State’s Desmond Izengbuwa in the final. Later, Adam Ajayi fought bravely through injury to win bronze in his category, raising the karate medal count to one silver and one bronze.
With these results, Team Kwara continues to show resilience and promise in Asaba, positioning itself as a strong contender at the 2025 National Youth Games.
……Governor AbdulRazaq praised for sports investment, Rashidi Yekini Stadium upgrade
Mallam Abdullahi Yusuf, Chairman of Abraysports FC and the Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) Kwara Chapter, has praised Kwara United’s technical crew and players for their strong showing at the Value Jet Preseason Football Tournament.
Speaking after watching the team secure a 3-2 win over Ikorodu United and a 1-1 draw against Abia Warriors, Yusuf — popularly known as Abray — said the matches reflected notable tactical improvements.
However, he urged the technical team to give other goalkeepers and players a chance to prove themselves, stressing that preseason is the best time to integrate new signings and build squad confidence.
“Suraju Ayeleso is excellent, but others deserve a chance to prove themselves as well,” Abray said.
He noted that the focus of the preseason should not be solely on winning, but also on preparing adequately for the CAF Confederation Cup and the 2025/2026 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.
Abray also commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his investment in sports, particularly the ongoing rehabilitation of the Rashidi Yekini Stadium. While admitting that the stadium’s readiness for the Confederation Cup remains uncertain, given the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) approval of Uyo Township Stadium and MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja, he said the upgrades will be of long-term benefit to the state’s sporting development.
…Says Kwara-born athlete is an inspiration to a new generation
Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has congratulated Mariam Eniola Bolaji for winning gold at the 2025 British and Irish Para-Badminton International Tournament, describing the achievement as another milestone in her remarkable career.
“I join sports lovers around the world to celebrate the legendary para-badminton talent Mariam Eniola Bolaji on yet another incredible feat on the global stage as she emerged global champion (gold medalist) at the just concluded British and Irish Para-Badminton International Tournament 2025,” the Governor said in a statement.
He praised the Kwara-born athlete for her determination, hard work and courage, noting that her consistent success is establishing her as one of the best para-athletes in the world.
“Eniola stands as an inspiration to our younger generation that there is no limit to what they can achieve in life. Her journey continues to inspire millions,” he said.
AbdulRazaq urged her to remain focused and ambitious, assuring her of the state government’s support as she pursues even greater achievements in the years ahead. He recalled that his administration recently named a sporting facility after her in recognition of her outstanding contributions.
“Thank you for making Africa, Nigeria and Kwara proud once again, Eniola,” the Governor added.
…State Celebrates National Sports Festival Medalists with Cash Rewards
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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq hosted and rewarded the state’s 2024 National Sports Festival medalists during a ceremony at the Ilorin Banquet Hall on Friday. Gold medalists received N1 million each, silver medalists N500,000, and bronze winners N300,000, with coaching staff also receiving financial recognition.
The state’s contingent secured six gold, 11 silver, and 12 bronze medals at the Abeokuta-hosted tournament. Governor AbdulRazaq praised the athletes as “heroes” whose achievements brought honor to Kwara, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to sports development.
In a landmark announcement, the Governor revealed the settlement of a N201 million sign-on fee debt owed to Kwara United FC players and coaches for 16 years. “This underscores our commitment to athlete welfare,” AbdulRazaq stated, highlighting recent infrastructure upgrades including an Olympic-sized swimming pool and continental-standard squash courts.
Sports Commission Chairman Bola Magaji credited the achievements to the Governor’s support, noting increased international representation for Kwara athletes. Former Sports Commissioner Hameed Adio commended the administration’s dual focus on sports and education.
The event was attended by sports administrators, local government officials, and SWAN Chairman Ismail Ayodeji, who urged hosting Kwara United’s continental matches in Ilorin to boost local morale and economy.
…Team receives grand welcome in Ilorin after winning 2025 President Federation Cup and National Youth League
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday hosted Kwara United Football Club following their historic win of the 2025 President Federation Cup — the first time the state has claimed the title. The Governor also celebrated the club’s U-19 team, who won the inaugural National Youth League.
To mark the achievements, each senior team player was awarded five million naira and a plot of land at the Kwara Smart City. The Governor described the victory as a proud moment for the state and praised the players and management for their discipline and hard work.
Kwara United secured the President Federation Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout win over Abakaliki FC, following a goalless 90-minute final. The win is the club’s first in the competition, which predates the national football league and is widely regarded as Nigeria’s most prestigious domestic trophy.
The team’s return to Ilorin on Monday was met with widespread celebration. Residents lined the streets to welcome the players, who arrived in a long motorcade from Eiyenkorin to the Banquet Hall in Government Reserved Area, where the reception was held.
Speaking at the reception, Governor AbdulRazaq hailed the significance of the win, describing the Federation Cup as the biggest trophy in Nigerian football. “It is bigger than the League Cup. This has been in existence even before the League was formed. The trophy is in Kwara today. I must congratulate everybody who has made it happen,” he said.
He recalled the state of the club in 2019 when his administration took over. “Everything was down. We were owing players a lot of money, but today the story has changed,” the Governor said.
He dedicated the victory to the late Alhaji Yusuf Salami, who he said had invested his personal resources to bring success to the club but never lived to witness it. “May Allah grant him Alijanna Fridaous,” he added.
The event was attended by key dignitaries including Chairman of the House of Assembly Committee on Sports Hon. Rukayat Shittu, Hon. Yusuf Abdulwaheed Gbenga of Shawo/Essa Constituency, Deputy Chief of Staff Princess Olubukola Babalola, Chairman of the State Sports Commission Coach Bola Magaji, Kwara United Chairman Kumbi Titiloye, State FA Chairman Malam Abdullahi Musa Thuraya, Head Coach Tunde Sanni, and APC chieftain Alhaji Yahya Seriki, among others.
In their remarks, Coach Magaji and Kumbi Titiloye thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for his strong support, noting that the administration’s commitment to the club laid the foundation for this historic success.
… Team Secures Continental Ticket After 49-Year Wait
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Kwara State erupted in celebration as Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq announced a N5 million cash reward and plot of land for each Kwara United FC player following their dramatic President Federation Cup victory. The unprecedented package came as the team returned to Ilorin on Monday with Nigeria’s oldest football trophy, ending the state’s 49-year wait for glory since Alyufsalam Rocks’ 1976 final appearance.
Thousands lined the streets to welcome the champions during a victory parade culminating at the Banquet Hall GRA, where the Governor honored the squad that edged Abakaliki FC 4-3 on penalties after a tense goalless final in Lagos. Goalkeeper Suraju Aiyeleso’s heroic saves and stellar performances from Afeez Nosiru, Wasiu Alalade, Isa Gatta, and Wasiu Jimoh throughout the tournament proved decisive.
“This reward reflects the magnitude of your achievement in putting Kwara on Nigeria’s football map,” Governor AbdulRahman stated during the reception. The victory secures Kwara United’s debut in the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup, marking their first continental campaign.
Coach Tunde Sanni described the win as “a dream realized,” while players dedicated the triumph to loyal fans who supported them through years of near-misses. The celebrations signal renewed hope for Kwara football, with the “Afonja Warriors” now shifting focus to preparing for African competition.
…Kwara United wins 2025 President Federation Cup, students top President’s School Debate in Abuja
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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has celebrated what he described as a proud and historic weekend for the state, following two major national victories in football and education.
Kwara United Football Club emerged champions of the 2025 President Federation Cup after defeating Abakaliki FC on penalties at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium in Lagos, the first time any team from Kwara has won the title since the state’s creation in 1967. On the same day, a team of secondary school students from Kwara won the Senior Category of the President School Debate Competition held in Abuja.
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In a statement issued on Saturday evening, Governor AbdulRazaq said both victories reflect the result of sustained investment and focus on youth development, sports, and education in the state.
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“I’m overwhelmed with joy as I joined the Harmony Boys of Kwara United this evening to bring home the 2025 President Federation Cup, the first time any team from our state has ever won the prestigious trophy since Kwara was created in 1967,” the Governor said.
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He praised the players, coaching crew, management of Kwara United, the State Sports Commission, and the supporters’ club, describing their performance as “a remarkable feat” powered by teamwork, discipline, and determination.
Governor AbdulRazaq also commended the state’s debate team, noting their consistent performance in the national competition. “For three unbroken editions, our pupils under the State Universal Basic Education have remained the national champions in the President School Debate Competition. I commend the Kwara contingents that have made us proud.”
He said the double victories were not accidental, but “deserving fruits of hard work and strategic investments” in key areas that directly impact young people and the future of the state.
“These achievements are proof that Kwara is on a steady rise. They show that our successes are not one-offs, but part of a larger, deliberate effort to place the state on the national and global stage for the right reasons,” he said.
The Governor congratulated all Kwarans at home and abroad, and reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the momentum in delivering positive results across various sectors.
…Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Flow 92.7 fm Chairman, Araba Femi Sanni, other dignitaries Join Fans at Thrilling Federation Cup Finals
The Mobolaji Johnson Sports Arena in Lagos was the stage for two dramatic Federation Cup finals, bringing an end to the 2025 edition of the national knockout tournament. After a gruelling series of matches since February, four clubs Kwara United, Abakaliki FC, Nasarawa Amazons, and Rivers Angels emerged to contest the men’s and women’s titles.
In the men’s final, Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Kwara United secured their first-ever major honour, edging past a spirited Abakaliki FC side in a tense affair. Despite both teams creating chances, poor finishing defined the match, with neither able to take full control in regular time. Kwara United eventually found the breakthrough, sealing a historic moment they have long waited for.
Abakaliki FC, who will compete in Nigeria’s third-tier league next season, had captured the hearts of fans after eliminating several big-name clubs via penalty shootouts en route to the final. But the Cinderella story fell just short at the final hurdle, as their shootout luck ran out when it mattered most.
In the women’s final, Rivers Angels held off a determined Nasarawa Amazons side to retain the title they won last year. It was a contest full of grit and experience, with Rivers showing once again why they are a force in women’s football. Nasarawa, without key players Rachael Unachukwu and Sikiratu Isah due to national duty, gave a solid performance but couldn’t break through the Rivers defence.
Among the dignitaries that saw the games were several dignitaries including the Governor of Lagos State. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Kwara state Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, There was Senator Sadiq Suleiman Umar representing Kwara North alongside Flow 92.7 fm Chairman, Araba Femi Sanni.
There were also Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, the former Deputy Governor of Nassarawa state who is currently the Director General of the National Directorate of Employment, Silas Ali Agara,
With both finals now concluded, this year’s Federation Cup delivered memorable moments, new champions, and further proof that Nigerian football continues to rise at all levels.
