Kwara Rising

Category: Technology

  • Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Hails Kwara’s Sugar Factory Film Studio as Game-Changer for Creative Industry

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Hails Kwara’s Sugar Factory Film Studio as Game-Changer for Creative Industry

    … Donates N350 Million to Boost Kwara’s Film Industry and Showcase State’s Cultural Heritage
    … Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s Legacy Project Poised to Elevate Nollywood, Continental Film Production

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday expressed excitement over the world-class facilities at the Sugar Factory Film Studio in Ilorin, declaring that Kwara State is primed to revolutionize Nigeria’s creative industry. The studio, a legacy project of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has been hailed by industry veterans as one of the best-equipped film production hubs in Nigeria and Africa.

    During her tour of the studio, Senator Tinubu marveled at its cutting-edge equipment, sound stages, and post-production suites, describing the facility as a “jaw-dropping” investment in Nigeria’s cultural and economic future. “What I have seen here today is extraordinary. Kwara is clearly prepared to cause a major upset in the Nigerian creative industry.” she said.

    A Hub for African Storytelling

    The Sugar Factory Film Studio, conceptualized under Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration, is designed to position Kwara as a premier destination for film and television production. Equipped with advanced technology, including high-definition cameras, editing suites, and soundproof stages, the studio aims to attract local and international filmmakers, reducing the need for Nigerian producers to seek facilities abroad.


    Industry veterans and creatives who have toured the studio have endorsed its capacity to rival top studios in Lagos, South Africa, and beyond. “This facility is a game-changer. It has everything needed to produce blockbuster movies and series right here in Kwara,” said a veteran Nollywood director who participated in the studio’s test runs.

    Senator Tinubu emphasized the studio’s potential to create jobs, empower youth, and showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage to the world. This aligns perfectly with President Tinubu’s agenda to harness Nigeria’s creative talents for national development, she added that the studio’s emergence dovetails with the federal government’s push to expand the creative economy, which currently contributes over 2% to Nigeria’s GDP.

    To boost the state’s creative ambitions, Senator Tinubu donated N350 million to produce a major film highlighting the state’s culture and traditions. The donation, hailed by the state government and residents, will fund a movie project that showcases Kwara’s unique heritage globally while creating opportunities for local filmmakers and actors. Her Excellency’s generosity is a sign of her deep commitment to Kwara’s development. With industry analyst hopeful that the gnerous donation will open doors for more talents.

    Governor AbdulRazaq, who accompanied the First Lady on the tour, reiterated his administration’s commitment to diversifying Kwara’s economy through investments in innovation, culture, and technology. “The Sugar Factory Film Studio is more than a creative space; it is an economic catalyst. We are creating an ecosystem where talent meets opportunity, and where African stories are told with global appeal,” he said.
    The studio is part of a broader creative cluster in Kwara that includes the Visual Arts Centre and the recently commissioned Innovation Hub, both designed to nurture talent across the arts and tech sectors.

  • First Lady Tinubu Hails Governor AbdulRazaq as an Outstanding Achiever Amid New Project Launches

    First Lady Tinubu Hails Governor AbdulRazaq as an Outstanding Achiever Amid New Project Launches

    …Kwara State witnesses historic commissioning of landmark projects

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday described Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as an “outstanding leader and amazing achiever” during the second day of her three-day visit to the state.

    The visit, marked by the commissioning of landmark projects and the launch of new initiatives, showcased the governor’s transformative leadership and commitment to development.


    Joined by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman, and several first ladies from across the country, Senator Tinubu began the day by flagging off the distribution of 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the North Central region. The kits, part of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), aim to support and encourage frontline health workers who play a critical role in maternal and child healthcare.

    Historic Commissioning of Flyovers

    The First Lady later commissioned the General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, a 562-meter-long structure designed to ease traffic congestion and boost economic activities in Ilorin.

    Cecilia Idiagbon, widow of the late General Tunde Idiagbon, expressed gratitude for the gesture, describing it as a reflection of Governor AbdulRazaq’s respect for history and dedication to honoring national heroes.

    Senator Tinubu also inaugurated the Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover, a 457.4-meter-long structure named after the revered Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs. Both flyovers are expected to significantly reduce travel time, enhance road safety, and improve the aesthetics of the state capital.

    Groundbreaking for Oluremi Tinubu Hospital

    The First Lady performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the epynomous Senator Oluremi Tinubu Hospital, a multi-storey healthcare facility being constructed on the site of the old civil service clinic in the GRA.

    The hospital, designed to offer premium healthcare services, is part of the state government’s efforts to improve access to quality medical care for residents and beyond.

    Commissioner for Health Dr. Amina Ahmed el-Imam explained that the hospital would address critical healthcare needs and serve as a legacy project for future generations.

    Innovation Hub and Sugar Factory Film Studio

    Senator Tinubu also visited the Ilorin Innovation Hub, a state-of-the-art facility designed to nurture tech talent and drive local solutions to developmental challenges.

    Impressed by the hub’s vision and impact, the First Lady described it as “mind-blowing” and pledged to share her experience with President Bola Tinubu.

    “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. You have enough projects to showcase, and I am indeed very proud of you,” she said.

    Her tour concluded at the Sugar Factory Film Studio, another legacy project of the AbdulRazaq administration aimed at promoting creativity and cultural expression in the state.

    Midwife Kits Distribution and Maternal Health Advocacy

    At the distribution of professional kits to midwives, Senator Tinubu commended Governor AbdulRazaq and his wife, Amb. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, for their hospitality and commitment to development. She emphasized the importance of supporting midwives, who play a vital role in reducing maternal and perinatal mortality.

    “This is to complement the ongoing federal government’s retraining exercise of 120,000 frontline health workers nationwide. The Renewed Hope Initiative procured 60,000 branded scrubs and 60,000 crocs as incentives to encourage and support the tireless dedication of our midwives,” she said.

    Governor AbdulRazaq, in his remarks, praised the First Lady for her humanitarian gestures, noting that the kits would enhance the capacity of health workers and improve maternal and child healthcare services in the state.

    The day’s events was attended by prominent figures, including Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi and his wife Abieyuwa; Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Yakubu Danladi Salihu; Senator Sadiq Umar; federal and state parliamentarians; cabinet members; heads of government agencies; party leaders; clerics; and community leaders

  • Driving Innovation, Empowering the Future! Welcome To The Ilorin Innovation Hub

    Driving Innovation, Empowering the Future! Welcome To The Ilorin Innovation Hub

    … As Gov AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman leads Technology Revolution In Kwara State

    #KwaraRising

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub, a groundbreaking initiative by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, stands as a beacon of technological advancement and youth empowerment.

    As Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, tours this iconic facility, Kwara takes a bold step into the future of software engineering, AI, robotics, digital marketing, and more.

    Designed to attract global tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Facebook, this hub will nurture the next generation of innovators, equipping Kwara youths with world-class digital skills to thrive in the modern economy.

    Governor Abdulraham Abdulrazaq is doing a lot to put Kwara state on the tech map and ensure that the youths reap the benefits of the IT world.

  • Celebrating Progress: AATSG Congratulates Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on the Ilorin Innovation Hub

    Celebrating Progress: AATSG Congratulates Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on the Ilorin Innovation Hub

    By Abayomi Odunowo.

    In a world increasingly driven by technology, the gap between those equipped with digital skills and those without is growing wider. In Nigeria, this divide is particularly pronounced. With a significant portion of its population consisting of young people, the nation faces the pressing challenge of preparing its youth for a future in a digital economy. Without targeted efforts to equip them with the necessary skills, many will lack access to the opportunities necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving job market. It is against this backdrop that the newly inaugurated Ilorin Innovation Hub emerges as a beacon of hope for Kwara state and its young populace.

    Every day, countless young minds in Kwara yearn for avenues to harness their potential and acquire skills relevant to the digital economy. However, traditional education systems have often fallen short, failing to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. The increasing complexity of technology, including software engineering, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing, makes it imperative for young people to have access to specialized training and resources. As an organization comprised of passionate supporters of Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu and his vision for Nigeria, the AATSG—especially the Kwara state executives and members—recognizes this urgency. Our youth must be prepared not just to survive but to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

    With great pride, we congratulate Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the vision, conceptualization, and implementation of the Ilorin Innovation Hub—a landmark initiative poised to transform Kwara’s technological landscape. This facility stands as a monumental stride towards addressing the pressing need for specialized training in ICT within our state. Recently commissioned by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the Hub represents one of the country’s most significant commitments to fostering youth empowerment through technology.

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub is not merely a facility; it is a comprehensive training and incubation center that will offer programs in software engineering, artificial intelligence, machine languages, graphics design, robotics, and digital marketing, among others. These fields are not just trends; they are essential components of a competitive global economy. By equipping our youth with these skills, we are not only preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow but also allowing them to innovate and create opportunities for themselves and their communities.

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub is designed with an ambitious vision: to become a nexus for investment and partnerships with some of the world’s leading technology companies, including giants like Google, Microsoft, and Facebook. This ambition is essential, as it will not only enhance the quality of training but also create a vibrant tech ecosystem in Kwara state. As a result, our state will see increased investments, leading to job creation, innovation, and technological advancements that benefit the entire region.

    Kwara youths will no longer have to seek opportunities elsewhere; they will be empowered to harness their skills locally, ensuring that they play an active role in the digital economy. This initiative is a clear demonstration of Governor AbdulRazaq’s commitment to building a prosperous future for the youth of Kwara, instilling hope, motivation, and a sense of purpose among them.

    The AATSG, including its dedicated Kwara state executives and members, calls on all stakeholders—government, private sector, and educational institutions—to rally around the Ilorin Innovation Hub. Let us take collective action by promoting this facility, encouraging our youth to engage in its programs, and partnering to ensure its success. We have the unique opportunity to create a wave of technological enthusiasts and innovators right here in Kwara, fostering an environment where creativity and productivity flourish.

    As we stand in admiration for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s visionary leadership, let us also commit ourselves to supporting this initiative. By doing so, we are paving the way for a brighter future for Kwara youths, who will be equipped with the skills necessary to navigate and succeed in the fast-paced digital world.

    The Ilorin Innovation Hub is not just a facility; it is a transformative initiative that promises to reshape the future of Kwara youths. Through unwavering support and a unified commitment to harnessing technology for development, we can empower our next generation and ensure that they are well-prepared for the opportunities that lie ahead. The future is bright, and together, we can illuminate the path for our youth in Kwara state.

    Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
    National Chairman AATSG

  • Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Champions Digital Empowerment and Infrastructure Development in Kwara

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Champions Digital Empowerment and Infrastructure Development in Kwara

    …As first lady visits, commissions projects

    #KwaraRising

    Excitement filled the air in Ilorin on Tuesday as Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commenced a three-day visit to Kwara State. The visit, marked by the unveiling of several landmark projects, underscored Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s commitment to digital empowerment, healthcare, and infrastructure development in the state.

    First Lady Inaugurates Key Projects

    Senator Tinubu’s visit began with the inauguration of the ICT Community Centre at the Kwara State University of Education, a project built by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), a foundation led by the First Lady.

    The centre is expected to provide invaluable opportunities for youth and women, equipping them with essential ICT skills to break traditional barriers and access new opportunities.

    The First Lady also inaugurated an ultra-modern Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the Dr. Amuda Aluko Ward, two major healthcare projects initiated by Governor AbdulRazaq.

    These facilities are set to significantly enhance the state’s healthcare delivery system.

    Groundbreaking Ceremonies and Project Tours

    Over the next two days, Senator Tinubu is scheduled to unveil or conduct groundbreaking ceremonies for several other projects. These include the Emir Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari Flyover and the Gen. Tunde Idiagbon Flyover, both of which are set for inauguration on Wednesday.

    Additionally, the rescheduled groundbreaking ceremony for the Oluremi Tinubu Hospital will take place on Wednesday.

    The First Lady will also tour other iconic projects initiated by Governor AbdulRazaq, such as the Innovation Hub, Visual Arts Centre, and the Garment Factory.

    These projects are reputed to be among the best of their kind in the country, reflecting the governor’s vision for a technologically advanced and economically vibrant Kwara State.

    *State Dinner and Royal Homage*

    Later on Tuesday, the First Lady attended a state dinner organized in her honor by the Kwara State government at the Flower Garden, a recently revitalized recreational facility that was once a hideout for criminal activities.

    The event was attended by prominent figures, including Vice President’s wife Nana Shettima, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, First Ladies from across the country, federal and state parliamentarians, cabinet members, and party elders.

    Senator Tinubu also paid a visit to the palace of the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, who offered prayers for President Tinubu, the First Lady, and Governor AbdulRazaq.

    The Emir praised the governor for his achievements and unwavering support for the President.

    Governor AbdulRazaq’s Vision for a Digital Future

    Speaking at the inauguration of the ICT Community Centre, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu and the First Lady for their impactful initiatives. He emphasized the importance of technology in securing a prosperous future for the people of Kwara.

    “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,” the Governor said. “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.”

    The Governor also commended the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, for their support in realizing the project’s objectives.

    A Call to Protect and Utilize New Facilities

    Mrs. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, the Governor’s wife, urged the host school and users of the new ICT Centre to protect the facility and take full advantage of its services. She highlighted the project’s role in promoting digital empowerment and fostering a technology-enabled equitable future for all Nigerians.

    The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, reiterated the President’s commitment to harnessing the potentials of digital innovation to drive national prosperity and inclusivity.

    Food Support for the Vulnerable

    As part of her visit, the First Lady, led by Nana Shettima, distributed food support to vulnerable groups under the Renewed Hope Initiative and ASR Initiative. Governor AbdulRazaq commended this intervention, expressing his gratitude to the First Lady for her efforts in alleviating the plight of the less privileged.

    The three-day visit of Senator Oluremi Tinubu to Kwara State not only highlights the significant strides made under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration but also shows the collaborative efforts between the state and federal governments in driving development and empowerment across Nigeria.

  • Governor AbdulRazaq Advances Kwara’s Technological Growth with N482 Million Dual ICT Projects in Shonga and Ilorin

    Governor AbdulRazaq Advances Kwara’s Technological Growth with N482 Million Dual ICT Projects in Shonga and Ilorin

    The Kwara State Government has embarked on a significant technological advancement journey with the commencement of two major Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) projects, collectively valued at N482 million. These initiatives include the N240 million Shonga ICT hub and the N242 million Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) tech hub, both championed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON.

    The Shonga ICT project, officially handed over to Skylat-One Nigeria Ltd., is a direct response to the community’s request for a modern ICT center. Speaking at the handover event in Shonga, the Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, highlighted the state government’s unwavering commitment to providing socio-economic infrastructure that fosters technological advancement in Kwara.

    “The Ultra-Modern ICT project in Shonga is a testament to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision for economic growth and development. This project will significantly impact the local economy and create numerous job opportunities for the people of Shonga and surrounding communities,” Hon. Adelodun stated.

    She further emphasized the project as a key example of the state government’s dedication to improving the ease of doing business, urging the contractor to ensure quality delivery and value for money.

    The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Mary Kemi Adeoshun, also praised the government’s efforts, noting the project’s potential to stimulate economic growth and urging efficient use of resources to meet the agreed timeline.

    The Emir of Shonga, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Haliru Ndanusa Yahaya, expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for addressing the community’s needs. He underscored the importance of the project in enhancing the local educational system, fostering economic growth, and promoting social development. The Emir reiterated the community’s long-standing advocacy for quality skills in computer literacy and the digital economy, essential for socio-economic advancement.

    Simultaneously, the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) tech hub, a project pledged by Governor AbdulRazaq, is set to bolster technological infrastructure in Ilorin. This project has been widely praised by residents, reflecting the Governor’s commitment to fostering technological innovation and enhancing the state’s digital landscape.

    Contractor Adegboyega Akinwumi of Skylat-One Nigeria Ltd. assured that the Shonga ICT project would be delivered to the highest standards, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the state’s development.

    These ICT hubs are part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s broader strategy to position Kwara State as a leader in technological innovation, providing essential infrastructure to support education, drive economic growth, and create jobs. His administration continues to receive accolades for its forward-thinking initiatives, reinforcing Kwara’s status as a hub for technological and economic development.