…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.
