Kwara APC Professionals Council

18/10/2025

“…In addition to our HEADMASTER, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq), anyone who wants to be a governor must be very loyal to him; he is our boss.

“We’re giving Kwara special attention. And again, the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is very committed to supporting the people of Kwara State and the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.

“You (Governor AbdulRazaq), have been very instrumental in ensuring that all other governors support the programmes of Mr. President.”

— Senator David Nweze Umahi, Minister of Works of Nigeria

22/05/2025

Breaking News

Press Release by Ilorin Emirate Durbar committee,

OUR POSITION ON THE PAVILION FOR THE FORECOURT OF THE PALACE OF ILORIN:
ILORIN DURBAR COMMITTEE

On behalf of His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, Dr.Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari (CFR ), it has become imperative for the Ilorin Durbar Committee, the Organizers of Ilorin Annual Durbar event, to make some clarifications on the proposed pavilion for the forecourt of the palace of Ilorin as follows:

1. The Durbar Committee initiated the idea of having a pavilion in the forecourt of the palace of the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR. We considered this as both a cost-cutting initiative and an effort to enhance the safety, comfort, and security of our people as well as further embellish the spectacle and beauty of the Ilorin Annual Durbar and other Royal events.

2. ⁠This idea was discussed with different stakeholders in Ilorin, including His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq ( CON) , the Governor of the State, Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), and Sardauna of Ilorin as the lead sponsor of the Durbar events in the past 6 years. In his response, the Governor made significant suggestions about our initial design and how the project can better serve its purpose.

3. ⁠The discussions on amendments to our original design and ex*****on of same, among other things, were still ongoing as of December 25, 2024 when a representative of the Distinguished Senator Saliu Mustapha, Turaki of Ilorin, unveiled a design of the pavilion at the annual Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU) National Conference as a gift from his office.
4. ⁠The Durbar Committee heard of this development like everyone else at the event. We were not privy to it until then. The new design from Senator Saliu Mustapha is also different from the Durbar Committee's original Architectural and Structural Design, which was being reviewed based on the inputs from the State Governor.
5. ⁠While the Durbar Committee remains highly indebted to His Excellency Governor AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq ( CON) and acknowledges the interest of other stakeholders, including Distinguished Senator Salihu Mustapha in our objectives, we however plead for the understanding of all the stakeholders who share our common values and whom we trust are working genuinely for the same purpose of ensuring that the best is done for our community and in honour of our revered Emir, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR to stop further comments on the pavilion in the interest of peace, oneness of purpose, and mark of our usual highest regards for the seat of Sheikh Alimi.

6. ⁠The imperative for all to heed this appeal is fundamental in order to allow for a lucid resolution of issues as the Government considers the Original Pavilion Design and other subsequent Plans before it in accordance with building standards, public safety and environmental impact regulations. We fully submit to the legal role of Government to uphold due process and security of its citizens; it is our duty to comply with the final decision of the state government on this matter. Accordingly,⁠ His Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, being a legal Icon with excellent track records of being enforcer of due process and rule of law, appeals to all to align with the letter and spirit of the law and regulations in the processing and ex*****on of the project.
7. It is equally important that we put on record our acknowledgement and appreciation of His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahaman AbdulRazaq, the Governor of Kwara State, as the lead sponsor of the Durbar events and other cultural activities since his assumption of office. As a true son of the Emirate, he has demonstrated the greatest regards for the traditional stool and shown commitment to the preservation of our rich cultural heritage. We appreciate him.

Similarly, we acknowledge the various contributions of our respected Royal and Honorary Title holders, sons and daughters of the Emirate, as well
as other well-meaning friends of the Emirate towards the success of the Durbar Committee in all our events.
8. ⁠This statement becomes necessary to clarify our position on the subject matter, given the leading role of our committee in the organization of the annual Ilorin Emirate Durbar to which every son and daughter of Ilorin looks forward as part of the celebrations of the Eid-ul-Kabir and our rich cultural heritage. Once again, our very clear position remains to align with all standards and safety regulations in our pursuit of the original Design and Plan earlier submitted to the government by our Committee.

Signed:

Engr.Suleiman Yahaya
Alapansapa,FNSC,
Danmasani of Ilorin and
Ilorin Emirate Durbar committee,
May 22,2025.

18/05/2025

Beyond the Flagpole: Transformative Projects of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq is building, constructing, and reconstructing:

The largest Innovation Hub in West Africa

The largest Film Factory in West Africa

The largest Garment Factory in West Africa

Ilorin International Conference Centre

The Multi-Storey Revenue House

Dr Ibrahim Sulu Gambari Flyover (Completed)

General Tunde Idi-Agban Flyover (Completed)

The largest Intensive Care Unit in North Central

Seidu Kawu Six-Storey Court House Complex

70 Projects by the Ministry of Works (39 completed)

And many more that time wouldn't permit to be mentioned.

WHAT HAVE YOU (PAVILIONIST MEDIOCRES AND DEAD PDP) SAID REGARDING THESE GIGANTIC PROJECTS?

Obviously, nothing! Simply because your prejudiced foresight could not feel their impactful presence and future. You never want to hear or see Kwara rising, as far as AbdulRahman is ruling. Your administrative trajectory is looting and borrowing to loot. Your sixteen years in power is evidence enough of your corruption.

To conclude, news has it that following the removal of fuel subsidy, Senators now receive nothing less than N2bn for constituency projects. With far less funding, Senator Ibrahim Yahya Oloriegbe was able to record landmark projects in his constituency. Senator Saliu Mustapha should be urged to disclose what he has done with the N2bn or more allocated for constituency projects.

Mallam Abdulhafeez Sidiq

09/05/2025

Again, Kwara govt distributes machineries, massive inputs to farmers as new planting season begins

• _Agric key pillar of food security, poverty reduction: Gov_

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday flagged off another round of distribution of machineries and agricultural inputs to farmers across the 16 local governments as this year's farming season gets underway.

The Governor called the gesture another practical demonstration of his administration’s commitment to food security, poverty reduction, and economic growth.

“Our administration has consistently prioritised agriculture, not just as a sector, but as a tool to empower our people, strengthen rural livelihoods, and create sustainable jobs,” the Governor said in Ilorin at a symbolic distribution of the agricultural items.

“What we are flagging off today is another wave of this assistance. More distributions will follow in organised batches, reaching deeper into our communities and reinforcing our shared productivity.”

The Governor spoke through his Senior Adviser and Counsellor Alhaji Sa'adu Salau.

The government has always distributed tractors, implements, and inputs to farmers across the state -- a culture that many farmers attested to at the event.

Among the items distributed on Thursday were 16 additional tractors,16 ploughs, 16 harrows, and 16 ridgers; 32,000kg (1,600 bags) of maize seeds, 18,000kg (360 bags) of Faro 44 rice seeds, and 10,800kg (270 bags) of TGX 1951 soya bean seeds; 720 sachets of inoculants to support nitrogen fixation and boost legume productivity; 5,040 bags of NPK (20:10:10), 5,040 bags of urea, and 720 bags of Single Super Phosphate (SSP); herbicides; 2,100 kg of atrazine for maize, 720 litres of butaforce for rice, and 2,880 ml of butaforce for soya beans.

Others were 4,320 litres of striker for maize, 7,200 litres of riceforce for rice, and 720 litres of legume force for soya beans; and 2,400 knapsack sprayers to ensure efficient use of chemicals on farms.

AbdulRazaq was happy at the notable progress the government has made in the sector, citing the rehabilitation of several rural roads that connect farm communities, and the expansion of access to quality inputs and mechanisation services.

The government has also invested in irrigation systems, supported farmer cooperatives, and opened up opportunities that allow the farmers to thrive, he added.

The Governor urged the benefitting farmers to use the items wisely for the transformation of their farms and communities.

"These inputs are not handouts —they are investments in your productivity, your future, and the prosperity of our state," the Governor said.

At the event were cabinet members and top officials, local government chairmen; Emir of Shonga Dr Haliru Yahaya; APC chieftains; women support groups; youth; and farmers.

Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge, said the interventions were carried out under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), a programme in partnership with the World Bank.

Buge said food security is a major objective of the ACReSAL programme, adding that the event was a fruit of the wise investment of Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr Afeez Abolore, and his counterpart in the Water Resources, Hon. Yunus Usman Lade, in their separate remarks, lauded the initiative and how the Governor has implemented it with passion for the good of Kwarans.

State Project Coordinator for ACRESAL, Alhaji Shamsideen Aregbe, said the programme seeks to empower local farmers with essential resources towards enhancing their productivity and livelihoods.

Aregbe said the government in December 2024 distributed 193 motorcycles to agricultural extension agents across the 16 local governments to further ease their business.

Chairman Kwara State Farmers' Support and Welfare Association,
Abdullahi Ahmed, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for his support for farmers over the years and his unwavering commitment to achieve food sufficiency in the state.

Taiwo Okanlawon
Communication Officer,
Kwara ACreSAL
May 8, 2025.

08/05/2025

Kwara State Geographic Information Service (GIS) again wishes to state the following on the proposed pavilion project:

The Service restates that at no time was any approval sought nor any given before the contractor illegally embarked on the construction work at the site. This is a grave offence under the law, which attracts 200% penalty. The Service does not tolerate such behaviour under whatever guise, hence the stoppage of work on the second day it started, February 7, 2025.
⁠The Service hereby acknowledges that it received a set of incomplete documents from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security with a cover letter from the Ilorin Emirates Council. That was a single document out of many others.
⁠Acknowledging that the said proposed pavilion is a constituency project to be funded by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Service had since written to the client Ministry requesting it to supply all relevant documents that ought to accompany the request for statutory approval. This is a matter of law.
⁠The Service’s letter is dated March 12. It was acknowledged by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security on April 7, 2025.
⁠It is not true that the Service has received any further correspondences providing the documents required to process the request for approval. For the avoidance of doubt, the documents being awaited from the client Ministry included (but not limited to): detailed survey plan; locational plan; block plan with detail dimensions, specifications and setbacks to the adjoining roads and properties; site analysis; parking lots plan; sewage system plans; drainage system plans; fire safety plan; storm water management plan; M & E drawings; soil test; environmental management plan; environmental impact assessment; and geophysical examination report.
⁠As of today, Thursday, May 8, 2025, the Service has not received any response from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, or anyone for that matter, furnishing us with the required documents to process the approval.
⁠The Service is not empowered under the law to issue statutory approvals where conditions precedent have not been fulfilled. This is to prevent any untoward happenings afterwards.
Signed:

ESV. Abdulkareem Babatubde Sulyman
Executive Chairman, KWGIS
May 8, 2025

06/05/2025

Kwarans Urge Sen. Saliu Mustapha to Obtain Statutory Approval Before Constructing Pavilion at Emir’s Palace

https://kwararising.com/kwarans-urge-sen-saliu-mustapha-to-obtain-statutory-approval-before-constructing-pavilion-at-emirs-palace/

Citizens are calling on Senator Saliu Mustapha, the Turaki of Ilorin and senator representing Kwara Central, to obtain proper statutory approval before proceeding with the project.

In a rare move, the program’s anchor, Bolaji Galadima, opened the phone lines earlier than usual to capture real-time public sentiment. The responses were emphatic and largely unanimous, callers from across Ilorin and beyond expressed strong support for the Kwara State Government’s insistence on adherence to due process.

Several contributors emphasized that no individual, regardless of social or political status, should bypass the laid-down procedures for construction, especially within the Emir’s Palace, which stands as a symbol of cultural heritage and traditional authority in Ilorin Emirate.

“The rule of law must prevail, one caller stated.

The controversy has reignited broader conversations about the boundaries of political influence in traditional institutions and the need to uphold institutional integrity.

A wave of public sentiment has emerged in support of the Kwara State Government amid an ongoing controversy surrounding the construction of a pavilion within

06/05/2025

AbdulRazaq’s Proven Strategy Against Rural Poverty—Kwara’s Rise Amid the World Bank 75.5% Challenge

By Afees Abolore Alabi, PhD

The visionary leadership of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has shielded Kwara State from the sharp rise in rural poverty recently highlighted by the World Bank, which reported that 75.5% of rural Nigerians now live below the poverty line.

Long before this stark statistic emerged, His Excellency had already begun laying the groundwork for rural development and economic empowerment across the state. A *Buffer* and a *Prime Mover*, His Excellency’s policies—centered on inclusivity, sustainability, and practical impact—are now producing measurable results in improving the standard of living for citizens.

Women and youths, once marginalized in economic development plans, have become central to Kwara’s progress story. Through the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) and other empowerment schemes, thousands have accessed startup capital, vocational training, and digital skills—translating into jobs, business growth, and improved livelihoods in both urban and rural communities.

One of the boldest illustrations of this transformation is the Kwara Garment Factory, commissioned in August 2024. Equipped with advanced technology, including the only Oshima Cutting Machine in West Africa, the factory currently employs over 245 trained workers, with plans to scale up to 4,000. The factory produces around 6,000 garments daily and is rapidly becoming a key contributor to the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).

The impact of this project has been so significant that the Federal Government recently adopted it as a national model with the creation of the Cotton, Textile and Garment Development Board (CTGDB), domiciled in the Presidency. This step is part of a broader strategy aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s economy and combating insecurity through agribusiness, livestock development, and industrial growth—initiatives Kwara is already well ahead on.

Furthermore, value-chain projects such as the Shea Butter Processing Plant and the Innovation Hub (in partnership with HIS) are opening new doors for local producers and tech-savvy youths. These projects are creating a bridge between traditional industries and modern technology, allowing rural communities to connect with broader markets and digital opportunities.

Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has also strengthened rural development through its active participation in major national and international projects. Under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) program, the state is tackling land degradation and improving climate resilience in different parts of the state. These interventions promote sustainable land use, reforestation, and access to clean water.

Through the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), Kwara is enhancing animal health services and boosting livestock productivity in multiple rural locations. This initiative has improved food security and increased rural incomes, particularly among women and pastoralist communities.

Additionally, the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) project, in collaboration with the African Development Bank and the Federal Government, is positioning Kwara as a regional hub for agro-industrial growth. With planned hubs and supported communities in various parts of the state, SAPZ will catalyze agribusiness investments, create jobs, and connect farmers to high-value markets.

As Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, I have observed firsthand how Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership is restoring dignity to rural life and building a foundation for sustainable development. His administration’s choices have not only improved living conditions but also inspired confidence in what purposeful governance can achieve.

Kwara’s story today is one of foresight, discipline, and people-focused leadership. And in these trying times, that makes all the difference.

As these transformative initiatives continue to expand, I call on all stakeholders—community leaders, private investors, development partners, and the good people of Kwara—to rally behind His Excellency’s bold rural development vision. Together, we can secure a future where no Kwara community is left behind.

Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi
Honourable Commissioner
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

05/04/2025

Heartfelt Birthday Greetings to Dr. Afees Abolore Alabi

It is with sincerity and honesty that I join patriotic Kwarans in celebrating and wishing a responsible and responsive Honorable Dr. Afees Alabi Abolore a happy birthday. This is a day that must be remembered in a significantly special way, as it marks the birth of a genuinely unique leader, father, brother, friend, and son of Kwara.

I, Mallam Abdulhafeez Sidiq, on behalf of the Kwara APC Professionals Council, say: “Happy birthday to you, Honorable Commissioner.” May you never cease to be the concerned leader you have always been. And may the Almighty Allah continue to elevate and guide you in all your endeavors.

APC Professionals Council
Kwara State Chapter,
Saturday, 5 April, 2025

03/04/2025

ABDULRAHMAN ESTABLISHES KWASSIP: A Legacy that Must be Adopted by Kwara LGA Chairs

Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) is a groundbreaking initiative established during Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s early first term. It is one of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's first and best legacy projects. KWASSIP aims to redefine poverty alleviation schemes in Kwara State through a legally recognized institution.

Prior to the birth of KWASSIP, politicians received accolades and gratitude meant for the State Government. Politicians were often praised as generous leaders, as if they were using their own funds.

The Kwara APC Professionals Council is not criticizing responsible and philanthropic leaders. However, we advocate for responsible and transparent leadership and commend Governor AbdulRazaq for demonstrating that.

An informed citizen appreciates leaders who allocate state resources fairly and transparently. Local Government Administrators should consider institutions like KWASSIP essential in their respective LGAs. This will lead to a significant reduction in poverty across the state.

According to the World Bank's State-by-State Poverty Index, Kwara's poverty rate decreased from 30.2% in 2019 to 20.4% in 2022. KWASSIP played a very significant and crucial role in driving such development in Kwara State.

The Kwara APC Professionals Council urges LGA Chairmen to join the fight against poverty and support social security initiatives, helping the State Government reduce poverty to a manageable level.

APC PROFESSIONALS COUNCIL
KWARA STATE CHAPTER,
THURSDAY, 3 APRIL, 2025

15/05/2024

A VISIT CONVEYING CONGRATULATIONS TO DR ABOLORE

Kwara APC Professionals Council, in her endeavor to make sure no good political office holder under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is without her acknowledgment and commendation, visited the office of the Honourable Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Dr. Afees Alabi Abolore.

Before his present appointment, the Ministry of Tertiary Education felt every great character and feature that distinguished him among others. He was and is still a good ambassador of his constituency in particular and the party at large. Thus, a reasonable party man must be obliged to thank him for discharging his constitutional responsibility.

In addition, it's a must we appreciate Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for enabling this avenue for a brilliant, responsible, and responsive enthusiast of Kwara progress like Dr. Abolore. Since the appointment of the cabinet is at the Governor's discretion, we must thank him for giving Kwara the best.

In conclusion, the support group, Kwara APC Professionals Council prays God continues to be the strength of the Commissioner in his endeavors to discharge his duties and responsibilities.

APC PROFESSIONALS COUNCIL
KWARA STATE CHAPTER,
TUE, MAY 14, 2024

29/12/2023

Governor AbdulRahman Must Counter ENetSuD With Fact-based Response.

ENetSuD has been interrogating the rationale for AbdulRahman's inaction on the local government election. "AbdulRahman: The only Governor in Kwara history that operates 16 LGAs unconstitutionally and tyrannically for 4.5 years with impunity," ENetSuD affirms.

Howbeit, the communication sector of this administration has been unable to do justice to its claim countering the allegations of ENetSuD.

Isn't the fact that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and his cabinets failed to neutralize the allegations sufficient to join ENetSuD in this case?

I'm Mallam Abdulhafeez Sidiq, progressivism is what binds me with Governor Abdul Rahman, not dogmatism. Hence, critiquing shouldn't be tagged as disloyalty.

24/08/2023

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Can Learn from Fellow Governors in Subsidy Removal Mitigation

In the wake of the subsidy removal, several governors have taken commendable steps to alleviate the burden on their citizens. Notable examples include Governors Zulum of Borno, Fintiri of Adamawa, and Uba Sani of Kaduna. Their actions serve as a blueprint for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State to consider for the benefit of his constituents.

Governor Zulum's approach of personally overseeing the distribution of palliatives to different districts sets a remarkable example. This ensures that the aid reaches those in need and underscores his commitment to directly addressing the challenges posed by subsidy removal. Emulating this hands-on approach could foster a stronger connection between Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the people of Kwara State.

Meanwhile, Governor Uba Sani's decision to subsidize education fees for students in public higher institutions in Kaduna demonstrates a strategic move towards cushioning the impact of subsidy removal. This initiative not only eases the financial burden on families but also invests in the education and future of the state's youth. Considering a similar education-focused approach in Kwara State could go a long way in ensuring the prosperity of its citizens.

Governor Fintiri's innovative solution of procuring fifty-eight-seater luxurious buses to combat high transport costs presents another avenue for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to explore. By providing efficient and affordable transportation options, Adamawa State is enhancing the livelihood of its residents. Implementing a similar transport-centric solution in Kwara State could significantly alleviate the challenges faced by the people due to subsidy removal.

It is essential to acknowledge that every state's circumstances are unique, and solutions should be tailored accordingly. While the Kwara State Government's effort to provide 10,000 Naira to indigenous students is a step towards aiding students, the brevity of its impact needs reconsideration. Instead, redirecting efforts towards more sustainable and impactful measures could better serve the populace.

As a strong supporter of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, prioritizing the development of Kwara State remains a primary objective. By drawing inspiration from the successful strategies employed by Governors Zulum, Fintiri, and Uba Sani, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy of progress and prosperity for the people of Kwara State. True progress is achieved not only by upholding political leaders but also by fostering the holistic growth and well-being of the state's residents.

Mallam Abdulhafeez Sidiq
August 24, 2023.