TheCrierng

25/03/2024

Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing the Kwara Central Senatorial District and serving as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Services, has appointed Nasif Sholagberu, aged 27, as his Media Assistant. The announcement came during an Iftar gathering hosted by Senator Mustapha at his residence in Ilorin, the capital city of Kwara State. Senator Mustapha, who also holds the title of Turaki of Ilorin, expressed his intention to integrate young talent into his team to enhance information dissemination within Kwara Central....

Senator Saliu Mustapha, representing the Kwara Central Senatorial District and serving as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture Services, has appointed Nasif Sholagberu, aged 27, as his …

24/03/2024

In light of recent developments surrounding the 2024 Hajj fare, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) extends its appreciation to stakeholders for their understanding and support during this challenging period. Recognizing the significance of the forthcoming Hajj exercise, NAHCON deems it necessary to provide clarity regarding the current Hajj fare arrangements. The timeline for Hajj preparations, as stipulated by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, commenced earlier than usual for the 2024 Hajj season and is expected to conclude ahead of schedule....

In light of recent developments surrounding the 2024 Hajj fare, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) extends its appreciation to stakeholders for their understanding and support during…

24/03/2024

Hon. (Prince) Abdulwahab Femi Agbaje Whyte, former Commissioner for Enterprise, Water Resources, and Energy, has disclosed plans for extensive rehabilitation efforts set to transform infrastructures in Offa, Kwara State. Addressing the community via a popular social media platform on Sunday, March 24, Whyte revealed, "I am glad to announce that we have secured the rehabilitation of Ipee junction/Agun roundabout and Halleluya/AtanOba roads....

Hon. (Prince) Abdulwahab Femi Agbaje Whyte, former Commissioner for Enterprise, Water Resources, and Energy, has disclosed plans for extensive rehabilitation efforts set to transform infrastructur…

22/03/2024

•opens portal for farms capturing Kwara State government has called on commercial farms, private farms and small holder farmers in clusters to contact the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to have their lands captured. According to the State government, this will enable the captured commercial farms, private farms and small holder farmers to benefit from another set of numerous government interventions....

•opens portal for farms capturing Kwara State government has called on commercial farms, private farms and small holder farmers in clusters to contact the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Develop…

22/03/2024

...Exercise to Ensure Judicious Utilisation of Asset Items - Busari The Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON), has received encomiums from different categories of beneficiaries of the recent agricultural asset disbursement by the Kwara Fadama CARES. The commendations came from the farmers/beneficiaries in all the LGAs across the State during the Internal and Third Party Monitoring exercises carried out by the Kwara Fadama CARES to ensure that proper use of the agricultural assets distributed were maintained....

…Exercise to Ensure Judicious Utilisation of Asset Items – Busari The Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON), has received encomiums from different categories of ben…

19/03/2024

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has flagged off the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), a six-year $500m food security programme supported by the World Bank and the Federal Government. Both the Federal Government and World Bank commended the Governor for providing quality leadership and platforms for livestock value chain production and commercialisation in the state. The administration has invested in the development of the livestock sector to maximise its potential, particularly in beef and dairy production, the Governor said at the flag off late Monday....

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has flagged off the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES), a six-year $500m food security programme supported by the World Bank…

19/03/2024

In the spirit of Ramadan, Alhaji Abdulkadir Attahiru Adamu Manko, the CEO white water and HAM Foundation has set out to provide Iftar support for 9000 Muslim Ummahs in Kwara State. In honor of his late mother, Hajia Hassanat Manko, his foundation is set to provide daily Iftar for 300 persons for the 30 days of Ramadan fully focusing on the vulnerable and the disadvantaged....

In the spirit of Ramadan, Alhaji Abdulkadir Attahiru Adamu Manko, the CEO white water and HAM Foundation has set out to provide Iftar support for 9000 Muslim Ummahs in Kwara State. In honor of his…

19/03/2024

In the annals of Kwara State's history, one name stands out as a beacon of hope and progress, illuminating the path towards a future where agriculture reigns supreme, and prosperity knows no bounds. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the people's governor, has embarked on an unprecedented journey to transform the state into the nation's food hub, setting a remarkable precedent for agricultural development and economic prosperity....

In the annals of Kwara State’s history, one name stands out as a beacon of hope and progress, illuminating the path towards a future where agriculture reigns supreme, and prosperity knows no…

18/03/2024

[OpEd]: Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's Vision for Agricultural Prosperity - Beki Mashood Abdulquadri

In the annals of Kwara State's history, one name stands out as a beacon of hope and progress, illuminating the path towards a future where agriculture reigns supreme, and prosperity knows no bounds. Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the people's governor, has embarked on an unprecedented journey to transform the state into the nation's food hub, setting a remarkable precedent for agricultural development and economic prosperity.

With unwavering dedication and visionary leadership, the governor has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at revitalizing the agricultural sector and uplifting the lives of farmers across the state. Through strategic partnerships and innovative policies, he has laid the foundation for a thriving agro-industrial ecosystem that promises to unlock the full potential of Kwara's agricultural landscape.

The Kwara Fadama CARES intervention stands as a testament to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's commitment to empowering farmers and enhancing food security. By providing agricultural asset items to thousands of indigent farmers, the governor has not only alleviated hardship but also catalyzed economic growth in rural communities. From knapsack sprayers to fish smoking kilns, these essential tools empower farmers to increase productivity and maximize their yields, thereby contributing to the state's quest to become self-sufficient in food production.

Furthermore, the inauguration of a multi-sectoral committee on food security underscores his proactive approach to addressing the challenges facing the agricultural sector. By bringing together key stakeholders from government, private sector, and civil society, the governor has created a platform for collaboration and innovation in tackling issues such as climate change, population growth, and economic instability. Through the development of strategies and policies, this committee is poised to ensure that every citizen in Kwara has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food, thereby laying the groundwork for sustainable agricultural practices and inclusive growth.

Moreover, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq's ambitious vision to attract Chinese investors into the agricultural value chain marks a significant milestone in Kwara's journey towards becoming the nation's food hub. By leveraging international partnerships and harnessing foreign investment, the governor aims to modernize the agricultural sector, enhance productivity, and stimulate economic development. With the support of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Council and the organized private sector, Kwara is poised to unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity in agriculture.

The governor's unwavering commitment to supporting farmers and improving agricultural productivity is further exemplified by his engagement with various stakeholders, including the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN). By listening to the concerns and aspirations of farmers, Governor AbdulRazaq demonstrates his dedication to ensuring that government interventions are tailored to meet the needs of those on the frontlines of food production. Through collaboration with farm clusters and targeted empowerment initiatives, the governor is paving the way for a brighter future for agriculture in Kwara.

In addition, the bold initiative to launch the KW-SAPZ Programme represents a paradigm shift in the state's approach to agricultural development. By establishing agro-processing zones and leveraging modern technology, the governor aims to revolutionize the agricultural value chain, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. With a focus on livestock production and strategic infrastructure development, the KW-SAPZ Programme holds the promise of transforming Kwara into a hub of agricultural innovation and prosperity.

In every aspect of his administration's agricultural agenda, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has shown a deep sense of empathy and compassion for the people of Kwara. He understands that agriculture is not just about growing crops; it's about feeding families, creating jobs, and building sustainable communities.

As Kwara State marches towards its destiny as the nation's food hub, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq stands as a shining example of leadership and vision. His dedication to agriculture and commitment to the well-being of his people will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy of prosperity and progress for generations to come.

Beki Mashood Abdulquadri writes from Ilorin.

18/03/2024

MANKO'S CHARITY TO PROVIDE IFTAR FOR 9000 MUSLIM UMMAH

In the spirit of Ramadan, Alhaji Abdulkadir Attahiru Adamu Manko, the CEO white water and HAM Foundation has set out to provide Iftar support for 9000 Muslim Ummahs in Kwara State.

In honor of his late mother, Hajia Hassanat Manko, his foundation is set to provide daily Iftar for 300 persons for the 30 days of Ramadan fully focusing on the vulnerable and the disadvantaged.

In Alhaji Manko's usual character of giving back to society, the daily iftar will cut across the state capital focusing on hospitals, prisons, mosques, orphanages, student communities, schools for handicaps, the mental and physically challenged persons, street beggers, and the Aged.

In his words, Alhaji Manko stated that "for me, leaning to give back and be supportive to others is not just the right thing to do, but the better thing to do"

Appreciating the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for putting people first in every policy.
Noting that in bridging gaps, it's needful for all to support the system by playing a part.

He emphasized that no Government can do it all nor an individual, for a better and peaceful state, there is a need for collaboration and partnership.

18/03/2024

ASKOMP Commends Yahaya Seriki For Ramadan Package

The Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) has applauded Kwaran born Business Mogul and CEO Kursi Investment, Amb Yahaya Seriki Gambari extending Ramadan Package to its members.

In a statement issued on Sunday by ASKOMP Chairman, Salihu Shola Taofeek, thanked Amb Yahaya Seriki for his unwavering commitment to social responsibility and community development.

Taofeek noted his significant contributions, which have positively impacted the lives of many individuals in Kwara State.

According to him, this act of generosity will foster a sense of unity, solidarity, and support within the community, especially during religious observances like Ramadan.

Amb Seriki’s dedication to philanthropy has not only touched the hearts of many but has also inspired others to contribute towards the betterment of society.

Yahaya Seriki continues to set an example of responsible leadership and social consciousness, making a meaningful impact on the lives of the people of Kwara State.

15/03/2024

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde announced the passing of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun. Makinde described him as an epitome of royal excellence, offering condoIences to his family and Ibadanland.

15/03/2024

PRESS RELEASE

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Thursday, announced the passage unto glory of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II.

The governor made this announcement in a statement on Thursday night, stating that Olubadan Balogun, joined his ancestors late Thursday evening at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

Governor Makinde described Oba Dr. Balogun as an epitome of royal excellence and a great achiever, who made great marks on Ibadanland in just a little over two years of his reign.

He expressed his condolences to the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Traditional Council and the people of Ibadanland and Oyo State, praying to God to grant repose to the soul of the deceased monarch.

He said: “With total submission to the will of God, I announce the passing unto glory of our father, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Mohood Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland.

“A mighty Iroko has fallen; Oba Dr. Balogun has joined the ancestors.

“In Kabiyesi, Ibadanland had a cosmopolitan and well-experienced Olubadan, who made indelible marks on the sands of history and achieved greatly within a short while.

“On behalf of the Government and good People of Oyo State, I condole with the immediate family of the Oba Dr. Balogun, the Olubadan-in-Council, the Oyo State Traditional Council and the people of Ibadanland.

“It is my prayer that God grants repose to the soul of our late monarch.”

Sulaimon Olanrewaju
Special Adviser (Media) to Oyo State Governor
March 14, 2024.

14/03/2024

Lady Jailed For Assaulting Lagos Official, Ignoring Pedestrian Bridge

A 22-year-old lady, Fasia Ajoke, was on Thursday sentenced to seven months and three weeks in prison by the Special Offences Court at Bolade-Oshodi for assaulting a Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps female officer while on duty.

The state Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a post on his X handle on Thursday.

Wahab said Ajoke was also guilty of resisting arrest and refusing to use the pedestrian bridge.

His post read, "The Special Offences Court at Bolade-Oshodi today convicted a lady, 22-year-old Fasia Ajoke to seven months and three weeks in jail for assaulting a female operative of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI) on lawful duty, resisting lawful arrest and refusing to make use of the Ile-Epo pedestrian bridge, thereby endangering her life in the process.

"She was arraigned before Chief Magistrate S.A Adefioye of the Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile Court), Bolade-Oshodi on offences bordering on conducting herself in a manner likely to breach peace, obstruction and breach of peace by crossing the highway."

The commissioner urged residents to desist from assaulting environmental officers and to prioritise using pedestrian bridges.

He wrote, "We enjoin every well-meaning Lagosians to desist from assaulting our environmental officers and also make use of the pedestrian bridges as the state will not hesitate to prosecute anyone found breaking the law."

The PUNCH reported on Tuesday that the Lagos State Government arrested seven miscreants for allegedly assaulting environmental officials during the removal of shanties and illegal structures along the Jakande Estate in the state.

It had also reported in February that the government described the crossing of major highways in the state by pedestrians as an offence adding that any defaulter caught will be prosecuted.

Credit: X| tokunbo_wahab

14/03/2024

Ramadan: Saliu Mustapha Distributes Food Palliative to constituents

As a measure to neutralize the effect of lingering economic hardship, the Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Mallam Saliu Mustapha, has commenced the distribution of bags of rice to over ,10,000 households in the 52 wards of the senatorial district.

Giving the breakdown of the food palliative, Legislative Assistant to the Legislator, Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulkadir Tunde, said the relief items include 20,000 bags of 10kg, 6,000 bags of 25kg and 4,000 bags of 50kg rice.

AbdulRahman said the bags of rice were distributed to religious leaders, traditional rulers in Kwara Central, Islamic clerics, political leaders, members of Kwara Central APC, people in communities and wards of the senatorial district.

He said the food relief was part of the senator efforts to assist the people in the sacred month and elevate the conditions of the less privileged.

According to him, the senator had given a directive to the constituency office to ensure that the food palliative reaches the most vulnerable segment of the community to ameliorate their suffering, especially in this sacred month.

The legislative Assistant expressed the Senator’s felicitations to President Bola Tinubu, Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; the Emir of Ilorin, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and all political, community and religious stakeholders across Kwara State, saying that the gesture was aimed to complement the efforts of the President and Governor AbdulRazaq to reduce the hardship in the country.

AbdulRahman reiterated the commitment of Senator Mustapha to uplifting the living conditions of his constituents through facilitation of projects and programmes.

The senator’s aide also urged Muslims to use the Ramadan to move closer to the Almighty Allah and conduct themselves properly so as to maximize the spiritual and physical benefits inherent in the month.

13/03/2024

Kwara South Senator, Lola Ashiru Begins Distribution of Food Palliative

The Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South Senatorial district, Oyelola Ashiru has commenced distribution of food palliative for Constituents.

Senator Oyelola Ashiru team kick start the distribution to 83 wards across Kwara South Senatorial district on Wednesday.

Our Correspondent gathered that 150 bags of 10kg rice will be distributed in each ward.

According to the Senator, over 12,000 households comprising traditional councils, artisans, religious groups and Transporters will get the food Palliative.

The food palliative is the Federal Government initiative being implemented by lawmakers to cushion the effect of economic hardship in the country.

13/03/2024

Applause as Kwara distributes 50,000 cartons of noodles to students

• We are fortunate to have Gov AbdulRazaq: Students leaders

Students leaders from across all tertiary institutions in Kwara State have applauded Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his various initiatives in bringing succour to the students, saying the food palliatives is an indication that the administration prioritises students welfare.

AbdulRazaq on Wednesday, flagged off the distribution of 50,000 cartons of noodles to support students across state, federal and private tertiary institutions in the state.

In their separate remarks, students leaders said the food palliatives would bring relief to students across tertiary institutions in Kwara State.

Students leaders who spoke during the event included representatives of students of universities in Kwara State Soliu Abdulqadir; representative of students of Polytechnics in Kwara State Ayotunde Emmanuel, representative of College of Health Technology Offa Shuaib Adam and representative of private institutions in Kwara Aisha Manzuma.

They expressed appreciation to Governor AbdulRazaq for being a father figure.

"We expressed our heartfelt gratitude to the Governor for his laudable achievements. I must say we are up to a new trajectory and it is a good feat."

"Sir, your recent achievements in the students community such as disbursement of bursaries, provision of palliatives buses and today the distribution of food palliatives to students have shown your support to the students and serve as subvention for our financial burden.

"We must admit that your leadership exemplified companion and foresight. We are fortunate to have you as a leader, father and as our governor in this state," the students leaders said.

While presenting the food to students leaders, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq who was represented by the state commissioner for youth development, Hajia Nafisat Buge, said that the gesture was in addition to the previous and ongoing interventions, policy directions and programmes to bring ease to the people.

"As I speak with you, 38,000 cartons of the noodles are right here, while the 12,000 balance will be delivered to you in the next few days", the governor said.

Governor Abdulrazaq also said that the intervention was another stopgap measure to support the students at this moment, adding that similar social supports in different forms are being extended to different segments of the society.

"This is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our administration to support students and to ensure their well-being during these challenging times.

AbdulRazaq promised that the government will continue to support the citizenry through this moment and always.

"Palliatives are only a temporary measure to show that we care. There are various short, medium, and long-term interventions being put in place across different sectors of the economy to empower the people, expand the economic base, and improve the living standards of the people.

"Before now, the government has rolled out a number of palliatives and relief packages to help the students cope with the challenges that came with the removal of fuel subsidy

"These welfare supports include: The approval of the first phase of transportation palliative for students, which will commence in the metropolis in April. There are plans to extend this gesture to other schools as well. The approval of the 2024 bursary and scholarship for Kwara state indigent students, which has been a consistent initiative since the inception of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq's administration.

Others are continuous engagement with students, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed. The approval of Sienna buses to the students' apex bodies, NANS Kwara, and NAKSS National headquarters, facilitating ease of movement and coordination for student leaders. The approval of a secretariat for the leadership of the National Association of Kwara State Students, Kwara State axis, providing a conducive environment for student activities and initiatives.

The provision of N10,000 palliatives for students during the subsidy removal. This again demonstrates our commitment to easing the financial burden on students during challenging times.

"These achievements underscore our dedication to the well-being and prosperity of our students. As we distribute these food palliatives, let us remember the importance of solidarity and compassion, especially during this holy month of Ramadan.

"Let us continue to work together towards building a brighter future for our students and our state. We also invite you to join the government’s advocacy against drug abuse under whatever guise. Let us kill drug abuse before it destroys our future".

In attendance, were State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Supervising Commissioner for Works and Transport Hon Abdulquawiy Olododo; Special Assistant on Students Affairs to the Governor, Salami Wasiu Onidugbe; Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroot Empowerment Abdulkareem Alimat Motunrayo and the Special Assistant Humanitarian Affairs Abdulateef Adebara and the Chairman Ex-students Leaders Forum Comrade AbdulRazaq Sulyman.

Onidugbe said that the intervention is for both indigenes and non-indigenes among the students.

Onidugbe also said that a government monitoring team would be sent to each of the benefitting institution to supervise the distribution to beneficiaries, charging the SUG leaders to ensure that the intervention reaches all students.

13/03/2024

Kwara State Commences Distribution of 50,000 Food Palliatives for Students

Kwara State has launched the distribution of 50,000 food palliatives tailored to assist students facing hardships. The initiative seeks to mitigate hunger and offer crucial support to students during these challenging times.

Details later

13/03/2024

Sho Pen Online presents ‘Cash Donation’ to Young Ilorin Boys for Ramadan mosque construction

A prominent online platform in Kwara State, Sho Pen Online has extended a generous cash donation to a group of young boys in Ilorin who recently undertook the noble task of building a mosque in preparation of the this year’s Ramadan.

The initiative gained attention across social media platforms after Sho Pen Online showcased the young boy’s impressive dedication in a recent post.

Two generous followers of Sho Pen Online were moved by their efforts and donated cash to support and encourage the young boys effort in promoting and projecting the Ilorin Emirate’s culture.

Expressing their gratitude, the young boys and their families appreciated Sho Pen Online for promoting their initiative.

They also offered prayers for the donors, praying to God Almighty to bless them for their benevolent gesture.

12/03/2024

Kwara Gov inaugurates multi-sectoral committee on food security

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday inaugurated a multi-sectoral state working committee on food security, charging them to work with all stakeholders to ensure that people have access to affordable food.

The committee comprises the Governor as the chairman; Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development Oluwatoyosi Adebayo Thomas; Commissioner for Local Government, Community Development and Chieftaincy Affairs; state coordinator of the federal ministry of agriculture; NAGS-AP State Focal Person; representative of the River Basin Development Authority (RBDA); representative of the State ADPs; representative of ICT Providers servicing the state; representatives of relevant commodity associations — AFAN, Maize Cassava, Soybean, rice; bank of agriculture; Nigeria Incentive-based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc); and representative of the state traditional council and Etsu Tsaragi Alhaji Aliyu Kpotwa Abdullahi.

The committee is to develop strategies, policies and initiatives to address food security challenges and promote sustainable agricultural practices, among other things.

Inaugurating the committee on Monday morning, the Governor said its members are charged with the responsibility of ensuring that every citizen in the state has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food.

“As we embark on this journey, we must acknowledge the challenges ahead. Climate change, population growth, and economic instability threaten to disrupt food production and access. Yet we must remain steadfast in our commitment to overcoming these obstacles.
We'll focus on supporting smallholder farmers, empowering rural communities, and leveraging innovation and technology,” he said.

“I urge each committee member to approach their role with dedication and compassion. Our success will be measured not so much by the policies we formulate but by the tangible impact we have on the lives of our fellow citizens.

“Let us work together, drawing upon our collective expertise, network, and experience to develop solutions that address the root causes of food insecurity in our state.”

Adebayo-Thomas, for her part, said the committee has its work cut out for it and would work round the clock to achieve the objective of making Kwara self-sufficient in food.

Managing Director of Lower Niger RBDA Dr. Adeniyi Saheed Aremu said it is important for Nigeria to feed itself, asking the committee to remain committed to its terms of reference.

The Etsu Tsaragi also commended the Governor for setting up the committee, calling for effective collaboration with all the commodities’ associations in the important task.

12/03/2024

Ramadan : ASKOMP Appreciates Saliu Mustapha for Packages

The Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) has commended Senator representing Kwara Central Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate, Senator Salihu Mustapha for the Ramadan package distributed to members.

In a statement signed by ASKOMP Chairman, Salihu Shola Taofeek, on Tuesday in Ilorin, he conveyed the association's appreciation for Senator's commitment to fostering unity and support within the media community during the holy month of Ramadan.

Salihu said the kind gesture by the Senator is seen as a commendable initiative, reflecting his understanding of the importance of solidarity and communal support, especially during religious observances.

The ASKOMP chairman emphasized the significance of such acts of generosity in fostering a sense of belonging and unity among media professionals and public office holders.