Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has approved immediate payment of at least N282m in counterpart funding to deepen access to primary healthcare, health insurance and nutrition for under-three children in the state, according to a statement on Tuesday.

AbdulRazaq’s Chief Press Secretary Rafiu Ajakaye said in the statement that the N282m includes N100m counterpart funds for Basic Healthcare Provision Funds (BHPV); N50m for Accelerating Nutrition Results in Nigeria (ANRIN); and another N82m to access global grants for malaria.

The statement said the release of the counterpart funds for BHPV would grant Kwara access to the World Bank/Federal Government’s grant to cater for health needs of pregnant and nursing women and children.

“Access to such funds will help combat maternal mortality rate and other basic health challenges related to women and children. Apart from this, the funds will help to fix facilities for primary health care and reduce the pressure on secondary and tertiary health institutions,” according to the statement.

The statement said the counterpart funds for ANRIN will grant Kwara access to donor funds to boost nutrition needs of children, in what is a practical step to end the menace of stunting and wasting among young children.

UNICEF has said stunted/wasted children --all of them victims of malnutrition -- are at risk of early death or becoming liabilities to the society as they are unable to cope in school or contribute to economic growth.

“Experts have decried malnutrition rate among children in the North Central, where Kwara falls. Because these children are so key to the bright future that this Governor envisions for Kwara, it is important to urgently key into any initiative that would boost their nutrition and give them a brighter chance at life,” according to the statement.

“The N82m counterpart funding for malaria is to ensure that Kwara also benefits from Global Funds set aside by donor agencies to combat malaria.”

AbdulRazaq’s release of the counterpart funding for healthcare late Monday came almost simultaneously with the payment of the N450m Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) which the agency insisted was diverted by the last administration. That diversion had led to the blacklisting of the state from the funds meant to boost access to primary health care, according to UBEC officials.

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Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday approved immediate payment of the N450m that the previous administration had diverted from the UBEC funds, clearing the way for immediate readmission of Kwara to a scheme that is meant to improve access to basic education.

The approval came a few days after UBEC officials narrated how the previous administration had diverted the N1.5bn 2013 funds allocated to Kwara and how that had led to the official blacklisting of the state from UBEC.

AbdulRazaq signed the documents approving the refund of the N450m during a meeting with the Permanent Secretary for the Kwara State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Bayo Onimago and Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Finance Benjamin Fatigun in Ilorin, the state capital.

The payment of the N450m was a precondition for readmitting Kwara back to the UBEC after a five-year ban under the Abdulfatai Ahmed’s administration.

Lamenting the ‘criminal neglect’ of the education sector and the decrepit state of infrastructure in a statement on Sunday, AbdulRazaq had said he would immediately pay the N450m in the interest of the children, restore Kwara’s relationship with UBEC and commit whatever fund accessed only for the purpose for which it was meant.

Rafiu Ajakaye, spokesman to the Governor, said one implication of this crucial step is that the state can now access UBEC funds worth over N5bn once it pays the counterpart funds.

“The situation before now was such that Kwara could no longer approach UBEC because the previous administration diverted the 2013 funds. That sullied the name of the state. Now, the governor has put that ugly chapter behind the people of Kwara State,” according to a statement issued on Monday.

Kwara currently ranks 37th or the lowest on the UBEC Matching Grant Disbursement Performance.


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Kwara lowest in UBEC performance ratings

Kwara State Government on Sunday said the response of former Governor Abdulfatai Ahmed to the outrage greeting the diversion of N1.5bn UBEC funds has raised more questions on the sordid neglect of public schools under him.

Chief Press Secretary to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Rafiu AJAKAYE, said in a reaction to Ahmed's statement that claims that funds weren't diverted or mismanaged hold no water in the face of revelations from UBEC and the decrepit state of the schools.

The government said the mismanagement is apparent in Kwara ranking 37th -- or the lowest -- on the list of UBEC Matching Grant Disbursement Performance as at April 30, 2019.

The government said Ahmed's claim that it used the N1.5bn to pay workers' salary was untenable and fishy for an administration that received N22bn Paris Club refund and additional N3.4bn bailout funds that were meant to help states pay workers when federal allocation dropped.

"We regret to say that the last administration cannot be forgiven for the criminal neglect of the schools because the consequences are there for all to see," according to the statement by the CPS.

"As at April 30, 2019, Kwara has the worst rating under the UBEC Matching Grant Disbursement Performance! This is a written record. This is the legacy of the former Governor and the PDP administration in Kwara State."

The statement added: "The former governor claimed he was unaware that Kwara was blacklisted. This is false. The diversion of the N1.5bn UBEC funds and the decision of the agency to bar the state from further dealings until diverted sums were paid is nothing but official blacklisting of Kwara State.

"UBEC officials made it clear that they investigated Kwara's claim that it used the funds to pay workers and found same to be false. The investigations, they said, showed that the money was diverted. The UBEC position is further corroborated by the fact that at least 49 school projects captured under the fund were either abandoned or not started at all.

"It has been four long years (in 2015) since Kwara was blacklisted on account of the irresponsible diversion of the 2013 UBEC funds.

"Between 2015 and now, Kwara has received over N22bn in Paris Club refunds and additional N4.3bn bailouts under the Muhammadu Buhari administration. Why didn't they use part of that money to refund the N450m diverted from UBEC funds?

"We note that the FG actually used part of some States' share of the Paris Club refund to settle their outstanding UBEC counterpart fund. Unfortunately, the FG couldn't do that for Kwara because it had curiously spent all its share of the money.

"If it was true that the last administration wanted to pay the N450m diverted from UBEC funds that led to the blacklisting of the state, why did it wait four years to want to offset that debt only in May 2019 after it had just lost election?

"If the future of the children meant so much to the administration, why did it take so long to want to remedy an unfortunate situation that had occurred in 2015."

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The Kwara State governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq who is on a working visit to Kwara North senatorial district of the state on Tuesday summoned a meeting with the Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries to Patigi over the not - to - behold state of affairs seen after his several visits.

The Permanent Secretaries who were led to Patigi by the Head of Service, Mrs Susan Modupe Oluwole, joined the governor as he carried out thorough inspection of the Patigi General Hospital facilities.

The Medical Officer in-charge of the hospital, Dr Akeem Mohammed , welcomed the governor's entourage and took time to itemize several challenges of the hospital as he conducts them around the wards, laboratory, surgical rooms and through designated abode of staffs. He noted that the challenges facing the hospital, such as dilapidated and unkempt structures with almost every ward housing patients lacked proper roofing which is evident during the rainy season as their wards are always flooded, he restated the lack of drugs, equipments, understaffing among many other symptoms of past government's neglect as the veil covering the beauty of the services they're ready to render to Kwarans and will be glad if the new government can do the needful to improve the standard of the hospital which despite all odds remains the last hope of not just Kwarans but also neighbouring states.

Governor AbdulRazaq who reemphasized his commitment in ensuring all Kwarans are alive to enjoy the fruit of a new and better Kwara, already on the path of working for all, appreciated the clinic for putting in their best despite several demoralizing factors of the past. He promised to look into every request that will be submitted to the Permanent Secretary with outmost concern but beseech the Medical Officer to get it across to the Permanent Secretary as soon as possible.

The Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries were addressed by the Governor on the purpose of the summon.

AbdulRazaq expressed outmost dissatisfaction on how the state was managed for years which has produced far from expected outcomes not pleasing to Kwarans.

The governor who told them he summoned them to Patigi so they can also feel what Kwarans using the bad roads not constructed for years go through, using Kwara North as a prototype. The governor repeatedly asked them if they were happy with the state of affairs he inherited and demanded ethical readjustment and progressive approach in the best interest of Kwarans.

AbdulRazaq while addressing the Permanent Secretaries reiterated the fact that Kwarans deserve better infrastructures and will not take their goodwill and trust for granted.

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Kwara state governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq took the teachers and staff of Gbodonji Primary School, Patigi unawares when he showed up at the premises today.

There were only two teachers available as at the time the governor visited the school at 12:40pm.

AbdulRazaq, noticing the lackadaisical attitude of the teachers, took his time to crosscheck the students' school notes, observing that the last time the notes were used was in March.

While interrogating the Head teacher, Gov AbdulRazaq learnt that there were certain abnormalities in the school. He also gave confessed that past governments have aided them in the nonchalant act, which included doctoring of students' data. His confessional statement further exposed the peculiarities in the educational ministry as the budget prepared and passed for education is not a true reflection of the number of students in government- owned schools within the state.

It was discovered that the schools in the state have been submitting projected numbers of the original number of students.

This arrangement has been a decision taken by past administrations to always prepare state's education budget based on the projected number of students.

The governor instructed the head teacher to immediately submit a detailed account which reflects the true situation of the school to the appropriate quarters.

Abdulrazaq also raised concerns on the rate at which school-aged children are abandoning school for farming, not only in Kwara North senatorial district but Kwara state as a whole. He promised to implement tested and trusted templates that can best arrest the situation urgently to stop the disservice to the future of Kwara rapidly.

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The executive governor of Kwara State AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq today visited the Kwara College of Education Technical, Lafiagi where he met with displeased and on strike staffs of the institution. The governor has been visiting major sectors in the state to ascertain the level of rot and what needs to be done to salvage the situation.

It is worthy to note that the Technical college is one of the state owned institutions which commenced strike during the last administration claiming neglect and years of government failure to take responsible actions.

While interacting with the governor, the staffs of the college which comprises of both teaching and non teaching staffs complained bitterly about what they have gone through in the past years and the deplorable state of the college's learning infrastructures.

They laid their grievances before the governor and seek to partner with ahim in giving the institution a new look and a fresh start.

Taking a critical look at their complaint, it can be seen that it's not far from the truth as major learning infrastructures are either dilapidated, half done or not exitsing at all.

Apart from physical structures, the internal weight of the college is shaky as they have not been able to renew their accreditation for over 5 years which is making things tough for them and their graduates certificates are questionable. Not to mention the deplorable hostel condition.

In his words, Governor AbdulRazaq stated that in his first 20 days in office, he has taken it upon himself to visit each sectors and fine tune ways to get them working again. While promising to get their accreditation back quickly in order to allow them produce tested and trusted graduates. He also admonished them to get back to work and be more effective as he is promising to clear whatever might pose a challenge to this quest with time, but requires their trust and patience to get Kwara working again in all aspects.

Abdulrazaq also promised to end the strike embarked upon by all state owned tertiary institutions within the next few days.

While admonishing them on the need to think deep, the governor stressed the need to build confidence in the process so that the state can be a centre of greatness and return back to her glory days.

Governor AbdulRazaq also took time to sincerely explain the fact that there is limited funds to cater for all sectors, but he is willing to get the work done irrespective of the financial hurdles.

However, the governor has promised to hold brief with relevant stakeholders in the coming days so as to draw up a realistic agreement that will see an end to the endemic strike and problem facing state owned tertiary institutions.

The commitment of all stakeholders in education will be needed throughout his administration to stop the perpetual shameful strike action of the past administrations.


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The Kwara State Governor, His Excellency AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has again assured Kwarans of better life ahead as his visitation train lands at Bacita Sugar Company.

The governor who arrived Bacita around 7:30pm after paying unannounced visit to Lafiagi waterworks, BUA company and KWCOET Lafiagi was welcomed by energetic youths tired of their unemployed status quo.

Bacita Sugar Company was one of the highest employer of over 10,000 staffs aside from casual workers years ago, but presently lying fertile and abandoned for years now.

While being received by the cheering populace who obviously have lost hope before now, but rekindled by the governor's reassured visit, took turn to express how happy they would be if the assurance materialize.

The governor who gave account of his meeting with AMCON reiterated that the meeting necessitated his on the spot assessment visit of the abandoned company, noting that having industries come in to partner with the government in the total overhauling and turn around of the state's economy will birth financial sustainability which will translate into employment opportunities for the youths, therefore enhancing infrastructural development that will spring up in major communities that play host to the industries.

Sheriff Umar one of the graduates welcomed Governor AbdulRazaq to the community with prayers wishing the governor divine guidance as he knows reviving the company isn't going to be an easy task but with the dedication of the governor he believes that it can be achieved.

The governor who revealed some of the issues critically looked into during his several meetings said issues like payment of 4years salaries of staffs owed by the company will be taken care of when the company resumes work again.

The coordinator of the company's staff Mr Joseph Asasile who has been with the company for over 30years appreciated the governor's effort at reviving the first sugar company in Nigeria while speaking on behalf of the workers. He reiterated that the youths of Bacita are hard working and ready to play their part in ensuring the company returns back to full operation if engaged.

While appealing to them to exercise patience with his administration, Governor AbdulRazaq promised to speed up the process of repositioning the state back to viability for proportioned opportunities that will lead to enviable growth of all sectors in the state within the least possible time.

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The executive Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq visited the Federal Ministry of Health in a bid to improve the health and wellbeing of Kwarans. The governor was received by Alhaji Abdulaziz Abdullahi, the Permanent Secretary and directors of the ministry.

The governor received briefing on priority health issues with emphasis on kwara state basic health care provision funds, national strategic health development plan and "Save One Million Lives" (SOML P4R).

The "Save One Million Lives" program was initiated by the federal government in response to the poor health outcomes in the country, particularly mothers and children. It is estimated that almost 1million women and children die yearly, largely from preventable causes.

The "Save One Million Lives" represents a bold attempt of the federal government to improving maternal and child health outcomes which the Kwara state Governor has shown readiness to key into such a laudable program for Kwara state.

Abdulrazaq stressed the need for urgent help from the ministry to improve medical treatment in Kwara. He touched on lack of drugs, dilapidated health facilities, poor water sanitation and lack of nutritional feeding inherited from previous administration which have increased death rate in the state but promised to find a way around accessing available funds by providing necessary counterpart funding to urgently solve already identified health related challenges.

The governor emphasized the need for good nutritional feeding and sanitation within the state which will aid proper medical treatment and will improve the life expectancy of all Kwarans.

Abdulrazaq who took time to address the issue of Health insurance carried out by previous administration regarding it as a system purposely designed to fail because without health facilities, drugs and adequate medical professionals no insurance program can be beneficial to Kwarans. He promised to look into the issue of health insurance with the aim of first putting all that will make it worth it in place as having Kwarans alive is the only way they can enjoy the state and country's level of wealth.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry appreciated the visit of the governor and lauds AbdulRazaq intention of improving health and wellbeing of the citizens of Kwara State.

Our attention has just been drawn to an online publication of some set of busy bodies and their agents/cronies alluding Senator Lola Ashiru's action to publicize his quest for Legislative Aides publicly a slap to Kwara Southerners.

I need to bluntly state here that advertising to get the best hands shouldn't be regarded as an insult but a laudable intention to hire the best hands for an optimal performance.

We have been accustomed to a practice of hiring family members, cronies and sometimes family members as Aides to Distinguished lawmakers, and the results seem not to have endeared us to the lawmakers.

An attempt not to make the affair an exclusionist affair shouldn't be a subject of ridicule by a few masquerading themselves as a "movement".

The essence of his advertisement via a consultant is clear and never ambiguous: "get the best of hands".

What the People of Kwara South are better concerned with is the output. To wit:- getting the best results from a people oriented Lawmaker.

Kwara Southerners have reposed their confidence in Senator Ashiru and it beholves on him not to betray such trust.

At the end of a 4 year tenure, Kwara Southerners would not be interested in whom he appointed as Aides but what he is able to achieve within his 4- year reign as their Representative in the Red Chamber.

One would simply not ask him to compensate or appreciate people or families who suffered one casualty or the other. That is believed to be one of his Cardinal principles towards sustaining his support base, but should not be a yardstick to appoint his aides. That would equate asking him to appoint an aide from every family that supported him to emerge as Kwara South Senator.

The Distinguished Senator has been sent on an errand and should be allowed to chose those he feels would assist him in fulfilling his mandate to his people.

Kwara South Movement were known to be proud supporters of the Saraki administration and the erstwhile Kwara South Senator; Senator Rafiu Ibrahim and one would ordinarily expect them to commence the ventilation of their anger.

Senator Rafiu holds the ace, he would be adjudged by his performance after his 4 year representation and should not give in to distractions as this is a time to build the foundation of his representation sojourn at the Red Chamber.

We urge all and Sundry, especially in Kwara South to keep supporting the Distinguished Senator in his bid to offer a distinct representation of Kwara South for the next Four Years.


Signed:

Barrister Joseph Titilope Akogun
Convener, Kwara South Youth Coalition
southcoalition@gmail.com

The Nigeria France Business and Investment Forum Dinner held yesterday in Abuja with governors flagging each other's arms and preparing for an event that will see them draw investors to their states to tap into both the human and nonhuman resources.

Particularly is the Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq who was pictured with the vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo at the dinner yesterday. AbdulRazaq who has vowed to put kwara state back to the place of pride rightfully hers is exploring all means to lure investments to the state and create jobs for the teeming youth in kwara state.

The event afforded the Governor the chance not only to listen to ideas and opportunities that can benefit Kwara but also to meet the investors in person telling them how fertile but yet to be tapped for years the state of harmony is.

With this, the Governor has demonstrated a quality effort in making sure the state remains valuable for investors.

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The Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq is on a working visit to Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development headquarters in Abuja. Pictured with him is the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mohammad Bello Umar.

Their discussion bothers on how to make agriculture a major yardstick for development and earning for Kwara state. It will be recalled that the Governor yesterday attended the Nigeria France Business and Investment Forum in Abuja where he lured investors to Kwara.

The governor who is keen on tapping into the potential agriculture can bring is working with both local and international organization to revitalize the sector and make it more lucrative for those practicing it and those who will venture into it.

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The Kwara State Ministry of Works and Road Maintenance Agency (KWARMA) today highlighted the significant achievements recorded by the state governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq by the ministry in his first 20days in office.

The Governor on his resumption in office charged the Kwara State Ministry of Works and Road Maintenance Agency (KWARMA) with effective delivery of their duties and activities wherein the ministry was swift in action.

The Permanent Secretary Dr Yusuf Garba of the ministry of works made it clear that they've realized some of the seemingly impossible abandoned projects as far back as 2013 and 2015 which as at today stand completed while some are still nearing completion.

He further identified the concerned roads with locations as Ita Kudimoh - Kokorokan - Isale Aluko linked road which was abandoned since 2015 now completed, also the rehabilitation of the Kaduna Road, Adewole is 50% completed, the Osere - Cemetery - Yidi Road is nearing it completion also.

In all the state government within 20days in office had rehabilitated ten roads and two roundabouts.

Access roads within the state capital which include Offa Garage - Dangote Roundabout, Geri Alimi - Adewole, Sanni Okin Road, Yebumot - Alhikmah - Apalara - Adeta road, Offa Garage roundabout, Adeta roundabout and many others have been rehabilitated.

Dr Yusuf said the new government is committed and with high level of foresightedness in delivering good road network across the state which will enhance the economical development of the state.

The ministry appreciate the support of the governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq and assure Kwarans that with the pace the governor is working, the achievements will be massive than could be ever imagined.

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AbdulRazaq directs DPMs to run LGs

Kwara State would benefit from the N200bn funds the Central Bank of Nigeria has set aside to promote innovative ideas and entrepreneurship, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has said.

AbdulRazaq said talks have reached an advanced stage for the state to be considered for the funds that would establish innovation hubs in the area of high-end movie production and textile manufacturing.

"We are talking with the CBN on the innovation hub and I'm glad to inform you that our proposal to access the fund is receiving favourable ratings," AbdulRazaq told a delegation of Kwara Youth Centre (KYC) who visited him in Ilorin, the state capital, on Wednesday night.

"When these hubs are created, they would generate at least 2000 jobs in the area of movie production and textile designs."

KYC is an umbrella body of young people, especially professionals, who research into the challenges in various communities and offer short and long term solutions or interventions.

The governor said the hubs would attract European and Chinese firms and lead to technology transfer to the indigenous workers.

AbdulRazaq said he envisions a state where government would create the right environment for individuals to create wealth and employment rather than anyone relying exclusively on the government to give them job.

He restated his commitment to agricultural value chains, especially in the area of cashew and sugarcane. The governor said Kwara State, with the right investment in infrastructure, has the potential to be the number one producer of sugar in Africa.

AbdulRazaq said Kwara under him would pay counterpart funding to access funds set aside by the Federal Government and multilateral institutions to drive growth in the grassroots, especially in the area of education and provision of basic amenities.

Referring to his meeting with the Directors of Personnel Management (DPMs) in the local government areas where the executive and committees were suspended, AbdulRazaq said he would pursue e-governance to fast-track governance.

"I told the DPMs that everybody wanting to work with government must be computer literate. We have to do things differently. We've got to run efficient government," he said.

Kayode Oyin-Zubair, Convener of KYC, said they had come to bring AbdulRazaq up to speed on the activities of the group which the Governor had long been supporting.

The group urged the governor to focus on empowering the youth in various ways and establishing economic clusters for different categories of entrepreneurs, artisans and creative sector.

It also called on AbdulRazaq to open up Kwara with access roads, saying that is the only way to boost agriculture and other initiatives of the administration.

The governor later inducted the KYC as an advisory board to the government.

The Governor, meanwhile, has directed the DPMs to henceforth run their respective local government areas following the recent suspension of the executive and legislative committees.

AbdulRazaq urged them to bring development closer to the grassroots in line with the constitutional mandate of local governments.

He, however, warned them against mismanagement of public funds, adding that his administration would frown at anybody making away with public resources.

AbdulRazaq also said his administration would henceforth refer any case of ghost workers to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).


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The Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has welcomed Prospective NYSC members deployed to Kwara state for their one year mandatory service. The governor who welcomed them during his surprise visit to the 2019 Batch ‘B’ corps members at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Yikpata, Edu Local Government of Kwara.

The Governor who promised to look into the state of the camp which he said is in a state of penitentiary and total collapse. AbdulRazaq who saw the state of despair of the orientation camp couldn't hide his angst and displeasure said the orientation camp lacks all the major infrastructural and basic amenities to make their stay worthwhile and as such certain measures will be immidiately put in place.

The governor who promised the corps members a secured environment during their service year also challenged the prospective corp members to always think outside the box and offer realistic solutions to the problems plaguing the state and country.

While promising equal opportunities to them, AbdulRazaq emphasized that credence will be given to exceptional corps members with entrepreneurship skills that has long time value to solve present problems.

While thanking the governor for his visit, the State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Tosin Ikupolati urged him to put the safety of corps members first as they are guest in the state. Mrs Ikupolati also thanked the governor for being the first governor to visit the camp in 8 years.

The orientation course will last for 3 weeks during which members will be put through various activities before being posted to their place of primary assignments.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has suspended the 16 Local Government Council Executive and Legislative Committees in line with the earlier recommendation of the State House of Assembly.

"Pursuant to the resolution of the Kwara State House of Assembly dated this 18th day of June, 2019, and Section 29 of the Kwara State Local Government Law Cap. K33, 2006, I, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the executive governor of Kwara State, hereby suspend the executive and legislative committees of all the Sixteen (16) Local Government Areas in the state for a period of six months or pending the outcome of the investigations into allegations of misappropriation of public funds by the Kwara State House or Assembly, whichever is earlier in time," according to a statement signed by the Governor on Tuesday.

The suspension came hours after the House of Assembly recommended the suspension of the local council executive and legislative committees.

The House had, in the resolution earlier in the day, urged the governor "to immediately suspend all the 16 Local Government Executive and Legislative Committees in the state pending the outcome of the investigation into the allegations of misappropriation of public funds levelled against them so as not to jeopardise the process of investigation".

Section 29 of the Kwara State Local Government Law Cap. K33, 2006 empowers the governor to suspend the chief executive of the local council for six months.

The Constitution, on the other hand, empowers the House of Assembly to investigate the local councils for alleged infraction and corruption.


https://www.fidelinfo.com/2019/06/18/breaking-abdulrazaq-suspends-kwara-lg-councils-for-six-months/

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Tuesday lamented the condition of Radio Kwara, pledging to make fixing the problem a priority of his administration.

AbdulRazaq said the total breakdown of operations at the state broadcaster typifies the general rots in the
state which his administration would address with the support of the public.

"I want you to realise that you (in Radio Kwara) are not worse off than any other sector in the state. The situation is the same everywhere," AbdulRazaq told workers of Radio Kwara during an impromptu visit to their headquarters in Ilorin, the state capital.

"I cannot use my office at the moment because it is in a state of disrepair and one wonders what they were using our money for. I was just coming from Oyun water works now and the last time they had water was over six months ago.

"So, we are starting from below zero. We need your support to pull through. They are about to start their own radio station to attack us even when they have killed the one that belongs to all of us."

He pledged to quickly look into the problem of the station, especially the FM arm where the specifics of the problems and solutions have been identified along with their cost implications.

Radio Kwara had gone off air for over three months owing to the lack of basic equipment to operate.

The staff of the station took turns to explain that all the equipment at the radio station have either become unserviceable or too weak owing to years of neglect or their age.

They urged the governor to intervene to save Radio State.

Earlier, the Governor visited the Oyun Water Works which distributes water to Offa, Igosun, Omupo and some other communities in the Kwara South Senatorial District.

He said the officials would be given a week deadline to deliver water to some communities after they have received the required funding to get what they need for the assignment.

The visit came barely two weeks after AbdulRazaq directed the ministry of water resources to deliver water to identifiable parts of the state within the next 100 days of his administration.

He said they would get all the support needed to deliver, warning however to wield the stick if the affected officials fail to meet the target.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Sunday said his administration would boost school enrolment and support good nutrition for the children.

"We maintain that access to quality education and good nutrition are key to the future of our children," Rafiu Ajakaye, chief press secretary to AbdulRazaq, said in a statement commemorating the Day of the African Child.

"It is for this reason that our administration is seriously considering joining the National School Feeding programme to boost good nutrition and school enrolment
for our children.

"Also, Kwara will henceforth pay better attention to the quality of education our children get."

In a veiled reaction to concerns about the rising number of school-age children roaming the street, the Governor urged parents to avoid anything that could jeopardise the future of their children and the state.

"The Child Rights Act is domesticated in Kwara and thus applies to every child. What this means, in part, is that it is unlawful for any parents to not enrol their children in school. On our part, we'll do our utmost to boost economic activities to create wealth," the statement stated.

Declared in 1991 by the Organization of African Unity (now AU) in honor of hundreds of school children killed in Soweto, South Africa, for demanding better education, the Day of the African Child has been celebrated on June 16 every year since 1991 to demand improved welfare for children.

The event, now known as the Soweto Uprising, occurred on June 16, 1976, drawing international outrage against the then apartheid government of South Africa.

Kwara State Government has shifted activities commemorating the June 12 Democracy Day in the state to Friday June 14.

"This to enable State Governors, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on the invitation of the Federal Government, to join Mr President and over 80 foreign leaders and dignitaries at the inaugural national commemoration of the day in the capital Abuja," according to a statement by Rafiu Ajakaye, the chief press secretary to the Governor.

"What this means is that the event slated for the Metropolitan Square and State Banquet in Ilorin will now hold on Friday 14th June instead of Wednesday June 12.

"Kwara will nonetheless observe the national holiday slated for June 12 as earlier announced by the Federal Government. There will be no new holiday on Friday."

The statement noted that many other states are also changing their own schedule of the event in order to join President Muhammadu Buhari for the inaugural June 12 commemoration in Abuja.

"We urge the Kwara public and all invitees from outside Kwara to the events in Kwara State to please take note of this slight change in the schedule," it added.

https://www.fidelinfo.com/2019/06/10/kwara-shifts-june-12-activities/

The Emir of Ilorin, HRH Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari today in his palace received the Chief of Staff to the President Abba Kyari led by His Excellency Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on a condolence visit over the demise of his mother Alhaja Aishat Nma Zuluqarnain Gambari who died on Monday night aged 110.

The high power delegation also have Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa Chairman APC in Kwara, Adisa Logun Chief of Staff to the Kwara State Governor, Chief Protocol to the President Lawal Kazaure and host of others notable personalities.

Abba Kyari who delivered President Muhammadu Buhari's condolence message to the Emir said Aishat’s love and kindness which transcended the palace walls, reaching the poor and underprivileged will be greatly missed not just by the Emirate but Kwara and the nation as a whole.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BycjV2ihFnP/?igshid=11m2kz4lh4co4

A top chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and Director General, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Campaign Organization (AACO) Kwara North, Alh. Muhammad Kudu Muhammad today applauded the State Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq over the appointments of his principal aides cutting across the three Senatorial Districts of the State.

In a statement made available to newsmen in Ilorin on Friday, the state capital Muhammed Kudu charged the appointees to be committed, resolute and key into the ideals of the O TO GE MOVEMENT by working in tandem with the vision of the Governor whom he said is determined to reposition Kwara state for the betterment of all Kwarans.

The appointments he said has shown the Governor is a fair minded leader, he also urged him to sustain the balancing spirit and factor in all his subsequent appointments.

He said the appointment of Dr Mamman Saba Jibril from Kwara North as Secretary to the State Government (SSG) is a welcome development being one of the many resourceful minds from the Zone.

The appointment, Alh. Muhammad Kudu noted a YES response to some agitations of Kwara North by the People's Governor, adding that the seat of Speakership of the State Assembly, the Ministerial slot from the state and a membership of the NEC of APC are also been awaited eagerly by Kwara Northerners in the continued spirit and interest of Justice Fairness, Equity and togetherness.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has made his first appointments, comprising the Chief of Staff (CoS), Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and Chief Press Secretary (CPS).

A statement by the Deputy Chief Press Secretary Agboola D Olarewaju said the appointees are Aminu Adisa Logun (CoS); Mamman Saba Jibril (SSG); and Rafiu Ajakaye (CPS).

Logun is a pioneer industrialist in Ilorin and an alumnus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Kuru, Jos.

He hails from Ilorin, the state capital.

Logun was the chairman of the 80-member Kwara State Transition Committee appointed by AbdulRazaq.

An alumnus of Barewa College, Zaria, Logun attended King's College, Lagos; had a bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from Loughborough University of Technology; and a Master's of Science (M.Sc.) from Birmingham University, both in the United Kingdom.

He worked at various times in Lever Brothers, Port Sunlight, UK; Cerekem Arhus, Denmark; North Brewery Limited Kano; Ajaokuta Steel Company; and Nigeria Iron Ore Mining Company, Itakpe. He was also a General Manager at the New Nigeria Development Company.

Jibril, who hails from Dumagi in Kwara North, was head of the Geography Department at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, where he still teaches

He has a Bachelor's degree in Geography, Master's of Science (M.Sc.) in Geography and Planning, and PhD in Geography. He specialises in Remote Sensing Applications).

Jibril is a member of the Association of Nigeria Geographers and Cartographic Association of Nigeria.

He has published several articles in local and foreign journals.

Ajakaye holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and International Studies and is studying for a Master's degree (M.A.) in History and Diplomacy, both from the Lagos State University (LASU).

He hails from Alabe in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

He was until his appointment the Nigerian correspondent for Anadolu Agency, Turkish semi-official news medium and world's fifth largest news agency.

Ajakaye has reported for various local and international news media. He has 15 years experience in active journalism as a politics and development journalist.

He worked at the Daily Independent where he was at various times a Trainee Reporter, Reporter, Senior Reporter, Acting News Editor for the weekend titles and Foreign Editor for the newspaper. He had also worked on the Politics Desk of the paper, and was the coordinator of its Development page for years.

He has also contributed articles to various international news platforms. He has vast experience in election reporting in and outside of Nigeria.

While Ajakaye's appointment appeals to AbdulRazaq's oft-stated belief in empowering qualified young people to achieve their potentials, his CoS and SSG picks speak to his determination to run an efficient and knowledge-based administration.

https://www.fidelinfo.com/2019/06/07/kwara-gov-appoints-chief-of-staff-ssg-cps/

Just 48 hours after the Kwara State governor's visit to Kwara State Water Corporation on Monday 3rd of June, some part of Kwara have experienced the return of water after 2 months of unavailability of one of the most important needs of human.

It will be recalled that Kwara State Governor AbudulRahman AbdulRazaq has instructed Kwara State Water Corporation that water must be made available and accessible to Kwarans within his first 100 days in office . With just 48 hours after his visit, some part of Ilorin the state capital covering Surulere, Agbo-Oba, General Hospital experienced the weight of the order as water has returned to their taps after months of shutdown.

The understanding of workers to work with the governor is clear and unambiguous. Just yesterday the Governor pleaded with their Union to call off their strike action embarked upon and resume work in order to work together in the Governor's 100 days target to provide water to some areas which the union yielded.

The governor was bitter with the state of things after billions of naira have been reportedly spent by the last administration to make sure clean water is available for Kwarans. With the billions spent in that regard, the situation is a heart wrenching that needs serious overhaul.

Evidently, the change in the baton of leadership in the State has brought about greater sense of urgency and zeal to work, as workers are now reinvigorated to contribute their quota to the Kwara for all vision of His Excellency AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

Consequently, the work continues so as to fully integrate other parts of the state to enjoy 24 hours supply of quality water.

https://www.fidelinfo.com/2019/06/05/48-hours-after-governors-visit-water-returns-to-kwara-state/

Easygoing Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq won another first on Tuesday, arriving the Eid prayer ground nearly one hour before the Emir of Ilorin.

Government House sources said AbdulRazaq's action was a first in the recent political history of Kwara State where his predecessors always arrived the Eid long after the emir and the Imam had been seated.

"He considers himself first and foremost a worshipper who had come to pray behind not just the Imam but also the Emir who is the leader of the faithfuls," according to one of the sources.

"That singular action has gone down in history as a deliberate effort to restore the Islamic tradition of not keeping the religious leaders, especially the emir, waiting at such gatherings."

AbdulRazaq arrived the mosque at least one hour before the prayer commenced, patiently listening to various recitations of the Qur'an and eulogy of the Prophet -- a feature of Eid prayers in Ilorin and other Islamic centres.

Many worshippers said the Governor's action was a "very laudable first" as late arrivals of his predecessors had always disrupted the religious gathering owing to heavy security operatives who would have to get the governor through thousands of worshippers.

"We hope to see the governor continue this humble practice. People prayed without being molested. For the first time, people listened to all the recitations without having them disrupted by chaotic arrival of their Governor as was the case in the past," Saheed Mustapha, a worshipper, said.

"He behaved like a typical well-behaved person. It is really a sweet departure from the ugly past which made many people to dislike his predecessors. This is because their late arrivals on account of some protocols always disrupted our programmes."

https://www.fidelinfo.com/2019/06/04/accolades-as-abdulrazaq-wins-another-first-in-kwara/

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday night lost an aunt, Alhaja Neematalahi Shehu AbdulRazaq.

Alhaja Neematalahi passed away at the Idigba family house of the AbdulRazaq.

She was married to the late brother of AGF AbdulRazaq (SAN).

She has been buried on Tuesday morning at the Muslim Cemetery Yidi Road Ilorin.

Fidau prayers for her will take place on Friday 7th June at Idigba Ilorin.

The Governor, meanwhile, has commiserated with the Emir of Ilorin Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari on the passing of his mother, Alhaja Aishatu Sulu-Gambari, popularly known as Alhaja Nma.

"We pray Allah to grant the great princess of Ilorin emirate al-jannah firdaus. On behalf of the people and Government of Kwara State, I commiserate with His Eminence the Emir Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari," the statement said.

"We take solace in the fact that Allah blessed Alhaja with long life which she spent serving her creator and humanity."

AbdulRazaq attended the burial rites of the mother of Emir, Alhaja Aishatu Sulu-Gambari, who died late Monday at the age of 110.

AbdulRazaq had earlier attended the Ilorin Prayer Ground for the Eid-ul-Fitri, arriving the Eid prayer ground a few minutes before 9a.m.

Self-driving AbdulRazaq arrived the Eid prayer ground in company of top party officials, family members, friends and well-wishers.

https://www.fidelinfo.com/2019/06/04/kwara-governor-loses-aunt-commiserates-with-emir/

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday directed the ministry of water resources to deliver constant water supply to specific areas of Ilorin, the state capital, within 100 days.

He also asked the ministry and affected consultants to deliver water to every part of the state by getting all the dams working, pledging to give them the necessary support.

AbdulRazaq gave the charge during his off-the-curf visit to Agba Dam, Asa Dam Water Works and Western Reservoir (Adewole) where he lamented that no part of the state gets constant water supply despite the over N6bn already sunk into the water reticulation project.

The Governor said he might wield the big stick in form of "house cleaning" if the ministry does not deliver on his directive.

"We have a mandate to deliver water to our people and within the next 100 days. For a start, I want to see constant water supply in specific areas of Ilorin, it may be Ilorin East, South or West or anything (where these particular dams cover)," he said after listening to the ministry's officials.

"Don't keep talking. We want action. Our people want water. No part of Ilorin or anywhere in this state do people have water. Raise a memo to state what the problems are and what's needed to fix them. People are tired of (empty) talk.

"We have to solve the problems now. Forget the big word reticulation, let's fix the problem. We need immediate memo on what the problems are and we will give you all the support."

AbdulRazaq said his administration is determined to provide potable to the entire state, even if in phases, in line with its campaign promises.

"We need to think out of the box. I'm serious about having water in our homes within 100 days. We have the mandate to deliver water to our people," he said.

Alhaji Yahaya Tunde, General Manager of Water Corporation, said constant electricity supply and treatment materials are the major challenges.

He said all the water works are currently disconnected from power supply because they owe the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) at least N24m. He said they have a monthly electricity bill of N9.7m

Apart from the ongoing strike action by staff of the water works, Tunde also said they needed modern equipment that can monitor water pressure and detect when pipes go bad.

AbdulRazaq had earlier visited the Kwara State Inland Revenue Service (KW-IRS) where he also directed the body to submit a memo to give a clear picture of the happenings there, including how to perform optimally.

He also visited the Ilorin General Hospital where he announced that the state would host a health summit for stakeholders from across the sector on how to improve health delivery in the state.

Restating his commitment to telemedicine, AbdulRazaq said he would consider better funding and autonomy for the state's premier hospital as the launchpad of the 21st medical technology.

He also visited the Kwara State College of Nursing and Midwifery, the Bureau of Land and Kwara State Fire Service where officials made presentations to him on the state of things.

https://www.fidelinfo.com/2019/06/03/i-want-water-delivered-to-kwarans-in-100-days-abdulrazaq/

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday directed the ministry of water resources to deliver constant water supply to specific areas of Ilorin, the state capital, within 100 days.

He also asked the ministry and affected consultants to deliver water to every part of the state by getting all the dams working, pledging to give them the necessary support.

AbdulRazaq gave the charge during his off-the-curf visit to Agba Dam, Asa Dam Water Works and Western Reservoir (Adewole) where he lamented that no part of the state gets constant water supply despite the over N6bn already sunk into the water reticulation project.

The Governor said he might wield the big stick in form of "house cleaning" if the ministry does not deliver on his directive.

"We have a mandate to deliver water to our people and within the next 100 days. For a start, I want to see constant water supply in specific areas of Ilorin, it may be Ilorin East, South or West or anything (where these particular dams cover)," he said after listening to the ministry's officials.

"Don't keep talking. We want action. Our people want water. No part of Ilorin or anywhere in this state do people have water. Raise a memo to state what the problems are and what's needed to fix them. People are tired of (empty) talk.

"We have to solve the problems now. Forget the big word reticulation, let's fix the problem. We need immediate memo on what the problems are and we will give you all the support."

AbdulRazaq said his administration is determined to provide potable to the entire state, even if in phases, in line with its campaign promises.

"We need to think out of the box. I'm serious about having water in our homes within 100 days. We have the mandate to deliver water to our people," he said.

Alhaji Yahaya Tunde, General Manager of Water Corporation, said constant electricity supply and treatment materials are the major challenges.

He said all the water works are currently disconnected from power supply because they owe the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) at least N24m. He said they have a monthly electricity bill of N9.7m

Apart from the ongoing strike action by staff of the water works, Tunde also said they needed modern equipment that can monitor water pressure and detect when pipes go bad.

AbdulRazaq had earlier visited the Kwara State Inland Revenue Service (KW-IRS) where he also directed the body to submit a memo to give a clear picture of the happenings there, including how to perform optimally.

He also visited the Ilorin General Hospital where he announced that the state would host a health summit for stakeholders from across the sector on how to improve health delivery in the state.

Restating his commitment to telemedicine, AbdulRazaq said he would consider better funding and autonomy for the state's premier hospital as the launchpad of the 21st medical technology.

He also visited the Kwara State College of Nursing and Midwifery, the Bureau of Land and Kwara State Fire Service where officials made presentations to him on the state of things.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has said he would send a supplementary budget to fund intervention projects in parts of the state.

"We will have to send a supplementary budget to the State Assembly to accommodate some (interventionist) projects," AbdulRazaq said during a visit to the scene of the two storey-building that collapsed in Ikokoro area of Ilorin, the state capital.

AbdulRazaq sympathised with those who sustained injuries in the incident, pledging to pay their hospital bills.

The governor said the state needs to procure necessary equipment for the state's emergency responders to evacuate people during such incident.

AbdulRazaq had earlier told officials of the Ministry of Water Resources to submit a memo detailing everything they needed to fix the water crisis in the state.

He said such requisitions would be captured in the supplementary budget the new government will send to the legislature for approval.

According to him, the water works must deliver constant water supply to identifiable areas within the Ilorin metropolis in the next 100 days.

He said such supply can be delivered to other areas of the capital city and across the state in phases, warning that he would not take excuses in the delivery of the key campaign promise.

Dr Richard Ifookorie, a victim of the building collapse, thanked AbdulRazaq for the visit.

"We are very grateful for your kindness. God bless you," he said, adding that it took the efforts of the neighbours to rescue him and his child from the rubbles.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Friday observed his first Jum'ah as the leader of the state, with the officiating clerics urging him to seek to leave a greater legacy.

Imam Faatih Yahya Murtadho of Oke Agodi Central Mosque in Ilorin said the Governor comes from an influential family and prayed Allah to grant AbdulRazaq "good health, wisdom and a legacy of unprecedented achievements in the history of Kwara State."

The governor had on Wednesday attended the Ilorin Central Mosque for special prayers heralding his administration.

Sheikh Jamaludeen Yahaya Murtada prayed Allah to protect the governor and keep him in the good book of the masses on account of his achievements in office.

"We pray the Almighty Allah to let you succeed in this huge task of leading our state," the cleric said.

AbdulRazaq later visited the headquarters of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq Women Wing and his family quarters in Surulere, Ilorin.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Thursday performed his first official duty by holding the security council meeting to receive briefings from all the heads of security agencies in the state.

The meeting, which held behind closed doors, was attended by all the members of the council, including the governor, deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, the Emir of Ilorin Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the state police commissioner Mr Kayode Egbetokun, among others.

The state security council comprises the Governor, his Deputy, heads of the Police, state security service, Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Customs Service, the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the state Council of Chiefs.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, Egbetokun said: "We met the governor who shows deep understanding of security as the Chairman of the State's Security Council. He understands that without security, no meaningful development can be achieved.

"The service chiefs (then) took turns to brief His Excellency about the security situation in the state. All the issues raised were discussed and decisions were made."

AbdulRazaq also met with the Kwara State Council of Chiefs. The meeting was attended by 16 of the 19 members of the council, whose chairman is the Emir of Ilorin.

The Governor was also billed to meet later Thursday with Kwara Elders and Leaders of Thoughts and representatives of the civil servants in the state.

AbdulRazaq had earlier inspected the Government House and Governor's Lodge.

On Wednesday, the governor met with party members and leaders, pledging an all-inclusive government that would prioritise people's well-being.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Wednesday said the state would join the national school feeding programme after properly studying it.

AbdulRazaq said the programme would boost school enrolment and help nutritional needs of the children.

"We have met with the coordinator of the programme on how (Kwara) can join. So we will definitely join it after we have studied it," he said at a special meeting he held with party leaders and members in Ilorin, the state capital.

AbdulRazaq also said his administration would always consult with the party and the people before taking decisions on issues in a bid to build consensus and inclusiveness.

He lauded the party leadership and members for their support before, during and after the general elections.

Lamenting the zero representation of women in the House of Assembly, the governor promised to compensate women with appointments and properly engage the youths as part of the efforts to build a viable state

He restated his pledge to embark on massive infrastructural development in the state, especially in the northern senatorial district which he said had long been neglected.

AbdulRazaq thanked members of the party who took part in the Transition Committee (TC), especially the chairman Aminu Adisa Loogun.

He added: "They did a wonderful job. What we thought we knew about the rot was a child's play. While we are still studying their huge report, it is clear we were wrong on the extent of the damage done to our state. We are in a deeper mess than we thought but we'll face it frontally and move our state forward."

APC chairman in the state Bashir Bolarinwa, for his part, commended the governor for choosing a low-key swearing-in program and for identifying with the party so early in his administration.

He called on party members to rally round AbdulRazaq in the overall interest of the state.

"Our people's yearnings are loud, their expectations are high. We cannot afford to let them down," Bolarinwa said.

All Progressives Congress (APC)'s AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq was sworn in as the seventh executive governor of Kwara on Wednesday, amid a pledge of a complete paradigm shift and evolvement of a state that works for all.

"What we have lacked before now are dependable and sustainable development plans, credible policies and policy discipline, accountability and transparency, a good sense of social justice and ability to expand social and political spaces that will promote tolerance, equality and innovation," he said in his inaugural address.

"These are areas where our government will make a difference."

The governor also said the new administration would look into how public resources have been deployed in the past but to the extent that such inquiry would turn the page for the state in its quest for socioeconomic development.

"We are confident that we shall, together, make Kwara great again through prudent deployment of resources, involving the people in policy making, interrogating past decisions only to the extent that they enable us to move forward," according to the governor.

AbdulRazaq said he welcomes constructive criticism, calling on the people to own the government and look forward to a new dawn that ushers in economic growth and equal opportunities for everyone.

"In all our policies, programmes and actions, the people of Kwara shall always come first," he said.

"Today, I invite you all to join hands with us in Government to repair and rebuild Kwara. I invite constructive criticism and urge you all to utilise our open door policy to communicate ideas and suggestions to us.

"What we stand for is to empower our people. Make society and life better. Strengthen family values. Improve efficiency and service delivery in our public services.

"Revamp our education to produce the best minds that will in turn make Kwara second to none. Promote industry, agriculture, technology and social services and open up new vistas of opportunities that will promote the common good."

The governor attributed the APC victory at the polls to the collective efforts of the people, saying the new government would therefore make the masses the focus of its policies.

"I believe we all know that the Otoge movement and victory does not belong to any single person. It belongs to the people of Kwara. The spirit of that movement shall always remain with us as we work to achieve our dreams," he said.

"If Otoge got us through the struggle to the point of victory, and given the enormous task of reformation and reconstruction ahead, it is now time for Iseya. As you will all agree, there is so much to be done. These range from institutional reforms and reconstruction, infrastructural development, human capacity building, social welfare and policy reforms to other socio-economic, cultural, scientific and administrative repositionings. It is not in our tradition to shy away from challenges. We shall engage them and find solutions."

AbdulRazaq was sworn in at about 10:05 a.m. by the Kwara State Chief Judge Suleiman Kawu Durosinmi, shortly after his deputy Kayode Alabi had taken the oath of office.

The two were accompanied to the historic event by their wives Mrs Olufolake AbdulRazaq and Mrs Abieyuwa Tokunbo Alabi respectively.

The Governor later received the handover note from the out-gone Governor Abdulfatai Ahmed who was represented by the Head of Service Mrs Susan Dupe Oluwole.

Ahmed congratulated AbdulRazaq, urging him to trust in God to direct him in piloting the affairs of the state.

He said the outgoing administration left N5bn (receipts) in the public coffers while the state has also recently benefited from a $750m World Bank grant for some development projects.