Kwara Rising

Category: Technology

  • Kwara Trains 200 Schoolchildren in Artificial Intelligence

    Kwara Trains 200 Schoolchildren in Artificial Intelligence

    … Govt partners Digital Equity Africa on ‘Future Minds AI Bootcamp’

    #KwaraRising

    The Kwara State Government has trained at least 200 schoolchildren from across the state on how to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to think, create, and solve real-world problems.

    The five-day programme, tagged Future Minds Independence AI Bootcamp, was organised in partnership with Digital Equity Africa and held between October 1 and 5, 2025. Participants were drawn from both public and private primary and junior secondary schools through what organisers described as a seamless selection process.

    Speaking at the grand finale in Ilorin on Sunday, Managing Director of the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Temi Kolawole, said the government’s sponsorship of the 200 participants underscores its commitment to digital inclusion among young people.

    “It is very impressive to see young kids under the age of 10 presenting websites they built, storybooks they authored, and even music they composed with the help of AI. If they can do this at this stage, we can imagine what they will achieve in the next five to ten years,” Kolawole said.

    He added that such early exposure fosters curiosity, innovation, and creativity.

    CEO of Digital Equity Africa, Mrs Justina Nnam Oha, said the bootcamp was not only about teaching technology but also about shaping mindsets and nurturing innovation.

    “Over the past few days, these children have explored the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence, learning how machines think, create, and solve real-world problems. They have collaborated, built, and imagined boldly – proving that the future belongs to the curious, courageous, and creative,” she said.

    Mrs Oha commended the Kwara State Government and the Ilorin Innovation Hub for their commitment to digital literacy and inclusion, stressing that the initiative ensures that children, regardless of background, have access to opportunities of tomorrow.

    Participants, including Abdulkareem Khadijat, Ahmed Imam Ayodeji, and Aminat Akanbi, expressed gratitude to the government and Digital Equity Africa for providing them with a platform to acquire digital skills and become AI-compliant.

  • Kwara Govt Launches AI Training to Empower Teachers 

    Kwara Govt Launches AI Training to Empower Teachers 


    …Initiative marks new phase in state’s education reform agenda 

    The Kwara State Government has introduced a one-day training programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in pedagogy for selected public senior secondary school teachers across the state.

    The training, themed “Empowering the 21st Century Educator”, was held at the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development Resource Centre, Tanke, Ilorin.

    Declaring the programme open, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, described the initiative as a turning point in Kwara’s education reform drive.

    “Today marks a pivotal moment in our collective journey to transform education in Kwara State and prepare our students and teachers for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital world,” he said.

    He urged teachers to embrace their role as “architects of transformation,” noting that AI integration is not just about technical tools but about re-imagining how knowledge is delivered in classrooms.

    “Let today be the beginning of a new chapter, one where Kwara classrooms become hubs of innovation, inclusion, and inspiration,” he added.

    The Commissioner praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for creating an enabling environment for innovation through sustained investment in education.

    Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Olanrewaju Rebecca Bake, also applauded the Governor’s commitment to education reforms, urging participants to put the knowledge gained to practical use for the benefit of students.

    Lead trainer Mrs. Fadimu Benedicta Toyosi described the workshop as a “golden opportunity” for teachers to adapt to digital realities, commending the Ministry for spearheading efforts to modernise teaching methods.

    Participants expressed appreciation to the government and called for AI training to be expanded to reach more teachers across the state.

    The event was attended by senior officials of the Ministry, including the Director of Personnel, Finance and Supply, Alhaji Abduraheem Abiodun Rufai, and Director of Human Capital Development, Mrs. Oludare Olawumi Victoria.

  • Kwara Govt, KWASU Unveil Converted Electric Vehicles in Push for Sustainable

    Kwara Govt, KWASU Unveil Converted Electric Vehicles in Push for Sustainable

    … Governor AbdulRazaq hailed for visionary support as university showcases innovation

    The Kwara State Government, in partnership with Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, has unveiled converted electric vehicles as part of its drive to promote sustainable transportation and technological innovation.

    At the official handing-over ceremony, the Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, described the project as a landmark achievement in the state’s collaboration with KWASU. He said the initiative underscores the potential of electric vehicles to cut carbon emissions and foster eco-friendly mobility in Kwara.

    Hon. Adelodun praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, for his visionary leadership and support, noting that training sessions for relevant staff will soon follow to ensure the smooth adoption of the new technology.

    Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Mary Kemi Adeoshun, also commended KWASU for conceiving and executing the project at a time when global attention is shifting towards renewable energy. She expressed gratitude to the Governor for championing forward-thinking projects that “put smiles on the faces of the people.”

    Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Chairman of KWASU Holdings Committee, Prof. Kenneth Adeyemi, said the university was proud to work with the state government on a project that demonstrates Kwara’s potential in electric mobility. He described the initiative as proof of what public-private and public-public partnerships can achieve under an enabling environment.

    Prof. Adeyemi explained that KWASU successfully converted scrapped petrol-powered vehicles into electric models, serving as a proof of concept for wider adoption of sustainable technologies in the state. He lauded the Governor’s infrastructure-driven vision for building a “new Kwara State.”

    The initiative, jointly championed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology and KWASU, is expected to drive innovation, strengthen environmental awareness, and inspire further research into sustainable energy solutions.

    Dignitaries present at the event included senior officials from the Ministry, members of KWASU Holdings Committee, representatives of the Centre for Sustainable Energy, and university management staff.

  • Kwara Govt, KWASU Unveil Converted Electric Vehicles in Push for Sustainable

    Kwara Govt, KWASU Unveil Converted Electric Vehicles in Push for Sustainable

    … Governor AbdulRazaq hailed for visionary support as university showcases innovation

    The Kwara State Government, in partnership with Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, has unveiled converted electric vehicles as part of its drive to promote sustainable transportation and technological innovation.

    At the official handing-over ceremony, the Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, described the project as a landmark achievement in the state’s collaboration with KWASU. He said the initiative underscores the potential of electric vehicles to cut carbon emissions and foster eco-friendly mobility in Kwara.

    Hon. Adelodun praised Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, for his visionary leadership and support, noting that training sessions for relevant staff will soon follow to ensure the smooth adoption of the new technology.

    Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Mary Kemi Adeoshun, also commended KWASU for conceiving and executing the project at a time when global attention is shifting towards renewable energy. She expressed gratitude to the Governor for championing forward-thinking projects that “put smiles on the faces of the people.”

    Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Chairman of KWASU Holdings Committee, Prof. Kenneth Adeyemi, said the university was proud to work with the state government on a project that demonstrates Kwara’s potential in electric mobility. He described the initiative as proof of what public-private and public-public partnerships can achieve under an enabling environment.

    Prof. Adeyemi explained that KWASU successfully converted scrapped petrol-powered vehicles into electric models, serving as a proof of concept for wider adoption of sustainable technologies in the state. He lauded the Governor’s infrastructure-driven vision for building a “new Kwara State.”

    The initiative, jointly championed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Technology and KWASU, is expected to drive innovation, strengthen environmental awareness, and inspire further research into sustainable energy solutions.

    Dignitaries present at the event included senior officials from the Ministry, members of KWASU Holdings Committee, representatives of the Centre for Sustainable Energy, and university management staff.

  • Ilorin Innovation Hub Featured on CNN in June Broadcast Lineup

    Ilorin Innovation Hub Featured on CNN in June Broadcast Lineup

    …Global Spotlight to show Kwara’s Growing Role in Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem

    #KwaraRising

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub has earned international recognition with a series of scheduled features on CNN throughout June, spotlighting its mission to drive technological advancement and entrepreneurship in Kwara State.

    According to a statement from the Hub, the CNN segments will explore the impact of its initiatives, the vision behind its establishment, and how it is positioning Ilorin and Kwara State as emerging centers of innovation in Africa.

    The broadcasts will air across various CNN programs including CNN This Morning, Early Start, and CNN News Central. Viewers are encouraged to tune in at the following times (WAT, UTC+01:00):

    • Friday, June 6 – CNN This Morning – 12:59 PM
    • Monday, June 9 – Early Start – 11:59 AM
    • Tuesday, June 10 – CNN News Central – 1:29 PM
    • Wednesday, June 11 – CNN This Morning – 12:59 PM
    • Thursday, June 12 – Early Start – 11:59 AM

    This CNN spotlight marks a significant milestone for the Ilorin Innovation Hub, which continues to play a transformative role in building a vibrant tech ecosystem, supporting startups, and preparing young people for the digital economy.

  • Ilorin Innovation Hub Partners with Paystack to Accelerate Kwara Startup Growth

    Ilorin Innovation Hub Partners with Paystack to Accelerate Kwara Startup Growth

    …Strategic Deal Grants Local Entrepreneurs Priority Access to Payment Tech, Global Perks, and Scaling Resources

    #KwaraRising

                                                                                                  The Ilorin Innovation Hub (IIH) announced today a landmark partnership with Paystack for Startups, Africa’s leading payment technology platform. This collaboration aims to empower Kwara State’s startups and small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) by providing exclusive access to enterprise-grade financial tools and global growth resources.

    Through this agreement, IIH-affiliated ventures will receive priority onboarding and dedicated support from Paystack’s team, along with the Paystack Startup Bundle featuring credits and perks from partners including AWS, Stripe, and Intercom. Eligible businesses gain early access to beta features, product launches, and invite-only events, while also qualifying for customizable payment processing rates that scale with their growth. Additionally, participants obtain full usage rights to Paystack’s comprehensive suite for payments, disbursements, and real-time business analytics.

    “This partnership eliminates payment friction so our founders can focus on innovation,” stated IIH leadership. “With Paystack’s infrastructure powering over 70,000 businesses across Africa, we’re advancing Kwara’s position as a premier technology and entrepreneurship destination in Nigeria.”

    Startups within the IIH ecosystem may apply immediately by submitting company details via email to paystack@iih.ng.

  • Kwara Inaugurates Youth Technical Working Committee to Boost Innovation and Empowerment

    Kwara Inaugurates Youth Technical Working Committee to Boost Innovation and Empowerment

    …New Committee to Drive Youth-Centric Solutions Across the State

    #KwaraRising

    To secure a brighter future for young people, the Kwara State Ministry of Youth Development has inaugurated the Kwara State Youth Technical Working Committee. The initiative reflects the government’s growing focus on empowering youths through innovation, skills development, and targeted support.

    The inauguration ceremony was led by the Commissioner for Youth Development, Ambassador Ndanusa Usman Shehu, who commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for consistently supporting youth initiatives and building an environment that enables young people to thrive.

    The Commissioner said the committee will serve as a collaborative platform to boost mentorship, technical training, and vocational capacity for young people across the state. He noted that this effort builds on existing government programs like the Youth Employment and Empowerment Generation Scheme and the International Vocational, Entrepreneurship and Technical College.

    He emphasized the importance of identifying community-specific challenges and designing strategic responses. According to him, the committee’s work will focus on implementing practical and forward-thinking solutions that make a tangible difference in the lives of Kwara’s youth.

    Ambassador Shehu urged committee members to remain proactive, resilient, and innovative in discharging their responsibilities.

    Also speaking at the event, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, encouraged members to be exemplary representatives of their communities. He assured them that the government will continue to recognize and support efforts that promote youth development and technological advancement.

    In his acceptance remarks, Chairman of the committee, Mr Abdulkareem Abdulkareem, thanked the Governor on behalf of the members and pledged their commitment to building a tech-driven and prosperous future for the state’s youth.

    Other attendees at the ceremony included the Special Assistant on Special Needs, Hon. Soliu Habeeb Baba Oloye; Special Assistant on Students Affairs, Hon. Wasiu Onidugbe; Director of Planning, Finance, and Supply, Dr. Funmilola Adenike Ajide; Director of Youth, Alhaji Abdulsalam Akeem; Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Kwara State Chapter, Comrade Ali Nasiru; as well as members of the newly inaugurated committee.

  • Ilorin Joins Global Roster of Startup Cities, Cracks Top 1000 for the First Time

    Ilorin Joins Global Roster of Startup Cities, Cracks Top 1000 for the First Time

    #KwaraRising

    Ilorin has officially entered the ranks of the world’s most promising startup cities, landing a spot in the 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Index released by StartupBlink. The Kwara State capital debuted at 885th globally and 6th in Nigeria, a stunning leap that places it ahead of several long-established urban centres including Kano, Benin City, and Kaduna.

    This is the first time Ilorin has appeared in the global index, signaling a sharp rise in its reputation as a city where ideas can thrive and startups can scale. While Nigeria as a country dropped in both global and continental rankings, Ilorin’s breakthrough offers a bold contrast and a compelling signal of regional momentum.

    The ranking, accessible at https://www.startupblink.com/startupecosystemreport2025.pdf credits Ilorin’s emergence to a mix of grassroots innovation, expanding startup visibility, and decisive government backing. Much of this progress has been driven by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, whose administration has made innovation a cornerstone of its agenda. Investments in digital skills, tech infrastructure, and youth-led enterprise have begun to deliver tangible outcomes.

    Key initiatives include the launch of state-backed innovation hubs, funding support for tech-driven solutions, partnerships with national and global accelerators, and regular bootcamps designed to turn Kwara’s youth into builders and creators. These moves have not only sparked a culture of entrepreneurship but positioned Ilorin as one of the most forward-looking cities in Nigeria’s startup scene.

    As Lagos remains the national leader and Abuja posts the fastest growth, Ilorin’s entry into the top 1,000 is proof that emerging cities are capable of punching far above their weight. With a growing pool of developers, founders, and creative talent, the city is charting a new course for regional innovation.

    This achievement belongs to the ecosystem builders, entrepreneurs, and bold thinkers who call Ilorin home. It marks the start of a new chapter for Kwara’s digital economy — one that signals that the global stage is no longer out of reach.

  • Ilorin Aims for Global Tech Spotlight with Virtual Townhall Featuring Flutterwave Co-Founder

    Ilorin Aims for Global Tech Spotlight with Virtual Townhall Featuring Flutterwave Co-Founder

    … Iyin Aboyeji to Discuss Building Innovation Hub at Event Hosted by Ilorin Innovation Hub, Partners

    #KwaraRising

    Ilorin Innovation Hub, in collaboration with IHS Towers, CcHUB, and Future Africa, will host a virtual townhall on Saturday, May 17th, 2025, featuring tech entrepreneur Iyin Aboyeji, co-founder of Flutterwave and Future Africa. The session, themed “Building a Global Tech Hub from Ilorin,”aims to chart pathways for positioning Kwara State’s capital as a nucleus of innovation.

    Scheduled for 5:00 PM WAT, the event will explore strategies to leverage local talent, infrastructure, and partnerships to create a globally competitive tech ecosystem. Aboyeji, renowned for his role in Nigeria’s fintech revolution, is expected to share insights on scaling startups, attracting investments, and fostering cross-sector collaboration.

    “This townhall is a call to action for stakeholders to unite in transforming Ilorin into a beacon of technological excellence,” organizers stated. Registration is open via https://bit.ly/IIHTownhall.

  • Kwara Trains Over 5,500 Students in Coding, Digital Literacy Across State

    Kwara Trains Over 5,500 Students in Coding, Digital Literacy Across State


    …Gov AbdulRazaq’s Initiative Expands to Target 7,500 Youths, Boosts Tech Education in Public Schools

    #KwaraRising

    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.