Kakaki

HYPPADEC commends FG’s N80bn flood intervention, seeks more funding

By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

The Managing Director of the Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (HYPPADEC), Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, has commended the Federal Government for approving N80 billion to mitigate the impact of flooding in vulnerable communities across the country.

Yelwa described the intervention as a proactive step toward addressing the annual flood challenge, while calling for additional funding to enhance flood control and protect at-risk communities.

He stated this while speaking with journalists after the commission’s quarterly management meeting in Ilorin, where directors and senior officials reviewed ongoing projects, assessed programme implementation and discussed strategies to improve service delivery across HYPPADEC’s member states.

The managing director said the meeting provided an opportunity to evaluate the performance of departments and divisions, identify operational challenges and obtain feedback from field offices to strengthen project implementation.

According to him, HYPPADEC has sustained its annual flood preparedness campaign through early sensitisation programmes in flood-prone communities, months before the onset of the rainy season.

“We work closely with state governments, traditional institutions and the media to educate residents on impending flood risks and encourage those living in vulnerable areas to relocate to safer locations,” he said.

Yelwa added that the commission had also commenced the construction of resettlement houses in some communities expected to be severely affected by flooding.

He praised the approval of N80 billion by the National Economic Council (NEC) to address anticipated flooding, describing it as the Federal Government’s first major proactive intervention in recent years.

“The amount may not be sufficient considering the magnitude of the challenge, but it is better to begin than to do nothing at all.

“I commend President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government for taking this initiative and hope that additional resources will be made available to further protect vulnerable communities,” he said.

Yelwa, however, said the commission had continued to discharge its statutory mandate despite funding constraints.

He noted that HYPPADEC was yet to fully access its statutory funding, particularly the 10 per cent revenue from power generation, adding that its operations were currently sustained mainly through Federal Government budgetary allocations and contributions from member states.

According to him, the consistent support from member states has enabled the commission to continue implementing critical development projects across its areas of operation.

On the enforcement of the Federal Government’s “No Work, No Pay” policy, Yelwa said the measure was aimed at promoting discipline, accountability and productivity in the public service.

He said staff members who absented themselves from duty without valid reasons should not expect to receive salaries while their colleagues continued to perform their responsibilities.

The managing director assured member states of improved project delivery, stronger collaboration with state governments and increased stakeholder engagement.

He said the commission planned to deepen partnerships with state governments through joint funding arrangements and, where necessary, involve beneficiary communities in financing selected projects to promote ownership, sustainability and proper maintenance of public infrastructure.

The quarterly management meeting brought together directors and senior officials of the commission to review ongoing programmes, address operational challenges and outline strategies for more effective project implementation across HYPPADEC’s member states.

Lack of knowledge, a challenge facing contemporary Muslims — Islamic scholarKnowledge

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

An Islamic Scholar, Malam Ibrahim Agboola-Gambari has identified lack of knowledge as one of the challenges of contemporary Muslims in Nigeria.

Agboola-Gambari stated this on Monday in Ilorin while speaking with newsmen at the 6th Graduation Ceremony of the Madaris Daril Qur’anil Kareem Was-Sunnah for Islamic and Arabic Teaching.

The scholar who is the proprietor of the school spoke on the theme: “Challenges Facing Muslims in Our Time”.

He explained that seeking knowledge is considered a duty in Islamic belief, adding that the very first revelation was “Iqra”, meaning “read”.

According to him, a lack of knowledge creates significant challenges for both individuals and communities.

Agboola-Gambari said the numerous challenges confronting the Muslim Ummah could be overcome through adherence to the teachings of Islam and the traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

The Islamic scholar explained that the school has produced a total of 60 memorisers of the Quran since 2001.

He noted that the 2026 graduation ceremony included 23 graduands, among which 13 students have memorised the Quran.

Agboola-Gambari added that the school comprises the Junior Secondary (Idaadiyyah) and Senior Secondary (Thanawiyyah) sections, with students drawn from various tertiary institutions, including the University of Ilorin and Kwara State Polytechnic.

In his lecture, a cleric, Dr Khaleel Al-Qorowiy, said the challenges facing Muslims are the result of a lack of knowledge and straying from the path of Allah.

He observed that many adherents have become weak in worship and religious practice, relying instead on amulets promoted by misguided religious leaders.

According to him, when basic Islamic knowledge is missing, people may pray, fast, or give zakat without understanding the tenets.

“Islam gives guidance on family, business, finance, health, and community. Without knowledge, marriages break down due to ignorance of rights and responsibilities.

“Business deals fall into riba (interest) because people don’t know halal alternatives. Lack of knowledge makes it easier for people to follow misled teachers, superstition, or extremist ideas.

“When someone doesn’t know the authentic teachings, they can be convinced that amulets, charms, or un-Islamic practices are religious. This ignorance leads to shirk or bid’ah,” he warns.

Al-Qorowiy therefore urged Muslims to remain united and avoid division, adding that Islam warns against excessive pursuit of worldly possessions at the expense of the hereafter.

Beyond Silence: Why Peace Requires Justice and Inclusion

By Odunola Esther Owolabi

A community may have no gunshots. Children may still walk safely to school each morning. Markets may remain open, and neighbours may exchange greetings as though everything is normal. Yet, peace may still be missing.

That was one of the most profound lessons from a recent peacebuilding training organised by the West Africa Network for Peacebuilding (WANEP-Nigeria) in Abuja for young women leaders and gender equality allies.

For many participants, conflict had always been synonymous with violence – burning houses, armed attacks, broken bottles and heated confrontations.

But by the end of the training, they had come to understand that conflict often begins quietly, long before anyone throws a stone or pulls a trigger.

It starts when voices are ignored, grievances dismissed, opportunities denied and entire groups excluded from decisions that shape their lives.

For Oreoluwa Fatuyi, the training fundamentally changed her understanding of what peace really means.

“I used to think that it was only when there was violence that there was no peace in a community.

“Now I know that when all groups are not included, there is no peace. I will apply this knowledge in my work to make a difference,” she said.

Her reflection captures a reality that peacebuilding experts say is too often overlooked.

Communities rarely descend into violence without warning. Long before conflict becomes visible, warning signs usually exist beneath the surface – unheard voices, unresolved grievances, unequal access to opportunities and persistent exclusion.

When these issues are left unattended, frustration deepens, trust erodes and divisions widen, creating conditions in which conflict can flourish.

One of the facilitators, Nsikat-Abasi Kenneth Umoh, challenged participants to rethink the very meaning of peace.

“Peace is more than the absence of war. It is the presence of justice, inclusion, dignity and equal opportunities for all,” she said

Her message was clear: sustainable peace cannot be achieved simply by ending violence. It requires addressing the conditions that allow conflict to emerge in the first place.

Rather than focusing only on the visible consequences of conflict, communities must confront its underlying causes.

The message resonated deeply with participants. Onome Atunusha said the training made her realise that she often focused on people’s reactions rather than the issues that triggered them.

“I’ve learnt to know the root cause. Sometimes I tend to respond to people based on the effects without looking at the root cause,” she pointed.

For Eunice Chukwueze, the lesson offered practical guidance that extends beyond peacebuilding.

She said conflict should never be approached at face value.

“There is a need to dig deep to know the root cause,” she said, noting that the knowledge would help her manage workplace disagreements, community disputes and situations involving survivors of gender-based violence more effectively.

Their reflections reinforce one of the fundamental principles of conflict analysis: visible disputes are often only the symptoms of deeper social, economic or political challenges.

Whether those underlying issues involve exclusion, discrimination, inequality or competing interests, peacebuilding practitioners maintain that lasting solutions begin with understanding why conflict exists before deciding how to resolve it.

Chief Dr. Bridget Osakwe, National Coordinator of WANEP-Nigeria, urged participants to see themselves not merely as trainees but as future peacebuilders capable of shaping how their communities respond to differences and disagreements.

Her message underscored an important reality: peacebuilding is not reserved for governments or security agencies.

Families, schools, workplaces, religious institutions and communities encounter conflict every day.

What distinguishes resilient communities from those that slide into crisis is not the absence of disagreements but the willingness to listen, embrace inclusion and address grievances before they become entrenched.

By the time conflict becomes obvious to everyone, it has often been developing quietly for far too long.

The training therefore leaves behind a simple but powerful message: lasting peace is not built by silence alone. It is built through justice, inclusion, dialogue and the deliberate choice to prevent conflict before it erupts into violence.

ICAN Ilorin inaugurates 17th district chairman

By Bushrah Yusuf

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Ilorin District and Society, has inaugurated Dr Abdulrasheed Abdullahi as its 17th District Chairman.

The investiture ceremony took place on Thursday in Ilorin, where Mr Shehu Abdullahi administered the oath of office to the newly elected district chairman.

In his inaugural address, Abdullahi pledged to consolidate the achievements of previous administrations while strengthening the district’s role in advancing the accounting profession.

He assured members that his administration would sustain existing initiatives and improve them through innovation, collaboration and effective leadership.

“We will not abandon the good works already initiated but rather consolidate, strengthen, improve and expand them,” he said.

Abdullahi outlined priorities including membership growth, students’ development, digital transformation, professional excellence and improved public sector accountability.

He also identified strategic partnerships, members’ welfare, greater visibility for ICAN and the development of young accountants as key objectives.

“Our administration shall maintain an open-door policy and constructive criticism shall always be welcomed.

“We shall be guided by one simple philosophy of ‘Together we build a stronger, inclusive and globally competitive District Society’,” Abdullahi told members.

The chairman urged members to work closely with the new leadership to achieve sustainable progress and strengthen the district society.

Outgoing Chairman, Mrs Bosede Fagbile, encouraged members to continue working together to advance the accounting profession across the district.

She urged members to mentor younger accountants while preserving the dignity, integrity and professional standards that define the institute.

Fagbile also appealed for continued support for the district society through unity, dedication and unwavering commitment to its shared vision.

ICAN President, Hajia Queensley Seghosime, urged the newly inaugurated executives to uphold the integrity and ethical standards of the accounting profession.

Represented by ICAN Offa Chairman, Mr Monsur Olurebi, she challenged the leadership to sustain the district’s culture of innovation.

She urged the executives to remain faithful to the oath of leadership they had taken and discharge their responsibilities with commitment and accountability.

The newly inaugurated executive committee includes Mr Toyin Alabi as Vice Chairman and Dr Kabir Hamzat as General Secretary.

Other officers are Mr Ibrahim Muritala as Treasurer, Mr Afolayan Babajide as Social, Welfare and Public Relations Officer, and Mr Isiaq Sadiq as Financial Secretary.

The executive also includes Dr Lawal Tajudeen as Technical Secretary and Dr Shuaib Abdulhakeem as Assistant General Secretary.

Mrs Bosede Fagbile will serve as Ex-Officio I, while Hajia Bilikisu Lawal, Mrs Adeyemi Victoria and Mrs Erhabir Joy will serve as Ex-Officio members

Kwara Govt distributes over 14,423 Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation–Commissioner

The Kwara Government has disclosed that over 14,423 Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) were distributed during the recent Maternal, Neonatal Health Child Health (MNCH) Week.

The Kwara Commissioner for Health Dr Amina El-Imam stated this on Thursday in Ilorin during the State-Level Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) Costed Implementation Plan Development Workshop.

The programme is a collaboration of Kwara Government, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and development partner; Vitamin Angels.

Similarly, the Commissioner also disclosed that a total of 172,762 bottles of MMS had been supplied to Kwara between 2021 and 2026.

She explained that the workshop aligns with the National Roadmap for Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (2025–2029).

According to her, the programme seeks to ensure equitable access to MMS for every pregnant women as part of routine antenatal care services.

The commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Taoheed Abdullahi observed that it aimed at strengthening maternal nutrition and improving pregnancy outcomes across the state.

“The MMS has been proven to reduce maternal anaemia, low birth weight, preterm births, and other poor pregnancy outcomes,” she said.

El-Imam reaffirmed the commitment of the State Government to supporting evidence-based interventions that advance Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and reduce maternal and neonatal mortality.

According to her, the state has continued to record significant progress in maternal and child health through investments in primary healthcare, immunization, maternal health services, health insurance coverage, and health system strengthening.

“Thousands of pregnant women continue to access skilled birth attendance services across health facilities, while the Kwara State Health Insurance Scheme has expanded access to essential maternal and child healthcare services,” she said.

The Commissioner emphasized that despite these achievements, challenges relating to maternal nutrition and micronutrient deficiencies persist, making the introduction and scale-up of MMS both timely and necessary.

In her welcome address, Prof. Nusirat Elelu, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency, described the workshop as a critical step towards securing better health outcomes for mothers and children in the state.

Elelu who was represented by the State Nutrition Officer, Dr. Bankole Olugbenga, highlighted ongoing efforts by the agency, including the integration of MMS into antenatal care services and free distribution of Iron and Folic Acid (IFA).

Other activities, she said, includes MMS during Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Weeks, training of healthcare workers on Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition, and the implementation of the “Eat a Rainbow” campaign.

“The four-day workshop is designed to develop a state-specific, costed implementation plan aligned with the National MMS Roadmap, ensuring adequate resources, proper budgeting, and effective implementation across the state.

Presenting the objectives of the workshop, the Sector Wide Approach (SWAp) Desk Officer, Dr. Ola Ahmed, stated that participants would review the National MMS Roadmap (2025–2029) and its implementation framework, adapt the national policy and framework for implementation in Kwara.

“It will also assess the state’s readiness for MMS rollout and scale-up within antenatal care services, and develop a realistic state-specific implementation plan and budget.

“Other objectives include defining the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders at state and local government levels and identifying financing options for sustainable implementation.

“It also helps in developing indicators for monitoring and evaluating MMS implementation outcomes,” she said.

In her goodwill message, the Technical Specialist, Vitamin Angels, Dr. Gloria Ode, noted that MMS was first introduced in Kwara by Vitamin Angels as a cost-effective intervention aimed at improving the health of pregnant women.

She explained that the programme has proven beneficial in reducing maternal mortality, anaemia, and low birth weight among newborns.

Ode commended the government for its unwavering commitment and support towards the successful implementation of the programme.

She also expressed confidence that the continued scale-up of MMS would further improve maternal and child health outcomes across the state.

Jurists, Lawyers shower enconmiums on Justice Oredola at book presentation

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Eminent jurists and legal practitioners on Tuesday poured encomiums on a retired justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice Massoud Oredola for what they described as his legendary contributions to the legal system in Nigeria and beyond.

The jurists and the senior lawyers spoke during the presentation of a book titled: “Trends of Contemporary Issues in Law, Sharia and Jurisprudence for Good Governance in Nigeria”.

The book presentation was put together by the Ilorin branch of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), in Ilorin.

Those who extolled the virtues of Justice Oredola included the presiding judge of the Ilorin Division of the Court of Appeal, Justice Ridwan Abdullahi, the grand Kadi of Kwara, Justice AbdulLateef Kamaldeen, Prof. Yusuf Ali(SAN) and Barr. Adebayo Adelodun (SAN) amongst others.

In his address, Justice Ridwan Abdullahi, the Chairman of the Occasion and the Presiding Judge of the Court of Appeal, Ilorin Division, described Oredola as distinguished through diligence, intellectual depth, and unwaivering commitment to the rule of law.

“Today’s gathering is not merely the unveiling of a book. It is a celebration of an extraordinary life dedicated to the service of justice, scholarship, integrity, and humanity.

“It is a fitting tribute to a jurist whose contributions have left indelible footprints on the legal landscape of Nigeria and beyond.

“His Lordship served meritoriously on the bench of Kwara State Sharia Court of Appeal for over a decade.

“Upon his elevation to the Court of Appeal in 2008 , Justice Oredola continued to distinguish himself as a jurist of exceptional learning and impeccable character,” he said.

Abdullahi explained that until retirement in 2019, Oredola delivered judgements that reflected profound scholarship, meticulous analysis, and a steadfast commitment to justice .

According to him, his decisions continue to guide legal practitioners, academics, judges, and students of law across Nigeria” .

The Chairman, NBA, Ilorin branch, Barr. SMH Kosemani said the choice of Oredola as honoree of this publication was informed by his exceptional record of service, his modesty and humility despite his towering achievements.

He added that Oredola has exemplary judicial career, marked with integrity and unwaivering commitment to justice .

Similarly, the Grand Kadi of Kwara State, Justice AbdulLateef Kamaldeen said the event was a celebration of a judicial titan, a consummate jurist, and an exemplary fine mind who has dedicated decades of his life to the pristine administration of justice in Nigeria.

In his goodwill message, Barr. Adebayo Adelodun(SAN) said:” For a one time chairman of of the Bar in Kaduna, whose later judgements has helped in no small measure to advance the frontiers of learning and legal education, the NBA Ilorin branch is by this recognition giving honour to whom honour is due”.

Prof Yusuf Ali who coordinated the unveiling of the book described Oredola as a jurist of repute who never compromised ethics and standard.

In his response, Justice Oredola thanked God for making the event a reality and appreciated the Ilorin branch of the NBA for the honour done him.

” In life, whatever you do, just put in your best and leave the rest in the hands of God. We thank Almighty Allah for bringing us to the position on earth where recognition is accorded us not posthumously but while we are still alive,” he added.

GEM promises citizen-driven advocacy for Improved governance

By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

The Golden Era Movement (GEM) was officially launched in Ilorin on Thursday as a non-partisan platform dedicated to fostering constructive dialogue, informed discourse, and proactive advocacy for good governance in Nigeria.

While briefing the journalist, the Convener, Dr. Seyi Adigun,said the movement was founded on the belief that Nigeria can and must function better for its citizens.

Dr. Adigun who was represented by Mr Habeeb Quadri, emphasized that GEM, also known as Force-24, is not a political party and is not affiliated with any political interests.

He described it as an open, inclusive movement committed to ensuring governance truly serves the people.

He expressed concern that many Nigerians feel disconnected from the policies and decisions that affect their lives, emphasizing that GEM aims to change this by transforming citizens from passive observers into active participants.

He stated that the movement will engage political actors, parties, and government institutions in a solution-oriented manner, focusing not on criticism for its own sake but on advocacy that delivers tangible improvements.

Adigun outlined GEM’s priority areas as policy development, institutional accountability, civic participation, and leadership quality, which he referred to as the pillars of sustainable progress. “GEM is not about noise. It is about impact,” he declared.

The Convener noted that Nigeria is at a critical juncture in its history, facing its greatest existential threat since the civil war, arguing that most political parties are focused on “capturing” power without concrete citizen-centered governance agendas.

He called on professionals, youths, leaders, and everyday citizens to join the movement with ideas, voices, and commitment.

He urged the media to hold GEM accountable and amplify solutions that matter.

The Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Kwara Force-24, Mr Abiodun Salaudeen, stated that GEM’s vision is a united society where every voice matters and opportunities are accessible, aiming to empower citizens through inclusive dialogue, innovative policies, and grassroots action for social justice, economic opportunity, and environmental sustainability.

Regarding membership, the movement announced that it is a national organization open to all Nigerian citizens and residents over 18 years of age, without discrimination.

2027: Alabaja submits intent form for Kwara Senatorial poll, pledges to curb insecurity

By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

A Consultant with World Bank, Mr Kazeem Salam-Alabaja on Wednesday in Ilorin pledged to prioritize security in Kwara through partnership with State and Federal Government.

Alabaja gave the pledge while speaking with newsmen during submission of his letter of intent to contest for the for the 2027 Kwara South Senatorial seat under APC.

He explained that if given the opportunity to serve, he will collaborate with the Kwara and Federal Government to introduce infrastructural mechanism that will deal with insecurity in compromised areas.

Alabaja who is also a Chattered Accountant pointed out that his project is based on transparency, stakeholders inclusiveness and infrastructural development of the Kwara South.

He explained that the initiative will bring about quantum development and wave in infrastructural and economic growth across Kwara South and other part of the State.

“I will be transparent in carrying people along im everything I do in Kwara and Abuja and will involve them when it comes to infrastructural development,” he said.

Alabaja also pledged to bring on board youth, where they will become “think-tank” for innovation and growth, adding that “we will put in place necessary finances to support them in the country.

He also said women and people with disabilities will have centres for empowerment and entrepreneurahip, adding that they will be trained and would be empowered, with market accessibility.

While accepting the letter, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, the APC Kwara State Chairman commended Alabaja for taking such a giant stride.

He observed that he is very much aware of the goodwill of Alabaja in the community.

Labour, gender issues to shape 2027 polls–MINILS D-G

Mr. Issa Aremu, the Director General/Chief Executive of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), has said critical labour market issues and gender equity as well as security will influence how organized labour and millions of informal workforce will vote in next year’s presidential and state elections.

Aremu made this known during the 2026 International Women’s Day extended celebration organised by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Women Committee, Kwara State Council, held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Labour House Hall in Ilorin.

He acknowledged the growing positive impact of women in leadership in Kwara State and the country at large.

According to him, Kwara has made significant progress in promoting gender inclusion, highlighting that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazak has exceeded the 35% affirmative action benchmark for women’s representation in his cabinet.

He also acknowledged the efforts of the President Tinubu, for appointing women into key national positions within the context of Renewed Hope Agenda.

The director general cited the Head of Service, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, the Director General of the National Pension Commission, Ms Omolola Oloworaran, and the first female Director General of the Nigerian Law School, Mrs Olugbemisola Odusote among others.

In her remarks, the wife of the Kwara State Governor, Olufolake Abdulrazaq, emphasised that investing in women and children is essential for building thriving communities.

She reiterated her foundation’s commitment to advocating against gender-based violence and addressing the underrepresentation of women in decision-making spaces.

“Women who are empowered with rights and responsibilities become catalysts for transformation within their communities,” she stated.

Earlier, the Chairperson of the NLC Women Committee in Kwara State, Comrade Victoria Agboola, in her welcome address, highlighted the global theme for this year’s celebration, “Rights, Justice, Action for All Women and Girls,” alongside the campaign theme, “Give to Gain.”

She noted that both themes underscore the importance of collaboration and collective action in advancing gender equality.

“No woman advances alone, and no society truly progresses when half of its population is left behind,” she added.

In a related development, the D-G led the management and staff of the premier National Institute for Labour Studies to confer the Fellowship on Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir for what he called “his commitment to decent work agenda of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.

This, he said is with respect to public service job creation, job security, pension and gratuities arrears payments hitherto unpaid by past governors”.

Aremu, said the singular historic event pointed to labour endorsement of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, for a second term in office.

He commended Gov. Yusuf for following the foot print of progressive labour market policies of President Tinubu with respect to increased minimum wage, cleared trillion Naira contributory pension arrears, non-retrenchment amidst revenue crisis”.

The notable high-point of the event was the disbursement of the sixth batch of gratuities and death benefits worth N5 billion. N33 billions had been so far paid by the governor out of the accumulated pension. arrears.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda commended the governor’s performance, noting that his administration had met the expectations required of an incumbent seeking re-election.

He cited Yusuf’s investment in people-oriented programmes and commitment to improving citizens’ welfare as key indicators of his suitability for a second term.

The APC chairman also pledged support for Yusuf’s re-election bid, alongside that of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

In his response, Gov. Yusuf expressed appreciation for the endorsement and the honour bestowed on him, pledging continued commitment to delivering meaningful development across the state.

He assured that the people of Kano would support the re-election of President Tinubu, adding that his administration would sustain efforts aimed at improving living standards.

Meanwhile, beneficiaries of the gratuities expressed gratitude to the governor, with some noting that the payments had eased financial hardship and restored hope.

APC Stakeholders Endorse Bolarinwa for 2027 Kwara Gov’ship Poll

By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo
Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State have announced the full endorsement of Mr Bashir Bolarinwa, as a preferred candidate for the 2027 Governorship Election in the state.

Prof. Yahya Hambali, a Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government area announced the endorsement at the meeting attended by religious leaders, women, youths and other party faithful in Ilorin on Tuesday.

Hambali said the gathering was not an ordinary political meeting but a defining moment to choose “the future over the past, progress over stagnation, and hope over despair.”

According to him, the endorsement followed months of consultations, town hall meetings across the three senatorial districts, and reflections on the yearnings of the people.

“Today, under the banner of the APC, we stand to announce our total and unshakable endorsement of Bashir Bolarinwa” he said.
Hambali explained that the decision was based on the candidate’s track record, experience and understanding of the challenges facing the people.
He noted that Bolarinwa had demonstrated capacity through previous positions held, including councillor, two-term local government chairman, former federal lawmaker, former state APC chairman, and former board chairman of the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC).
“We are not endorsing promises or trial and error. We are endorsing performance, experience and credibility,” Hambali said.
He said the candidate’s agenda aligned with the aspirations of the people, highlighting key priorities such as security, education, job creation, and agricultural and industrial development.
On security, Hambali said the candidate would ensure that farmers could return to their farms without fear, while also addressing unemployment among youths and women.

He added that Bolarinwa’s education policy would equip children with skills to compete globally, while his economic plan would transform Kwara from a consumption-driven state to a production-based economy.

Hambali also described the candidate as a unifier capable of bridging divides across communities.

“He is at home with farmers in rural areas, traders in markets, and students in both primary and tertiary institutions,” he said.

He called on party members and the electorate to support the candidate, describing the endorsement as a collective decision in the interest of the state.
“By supporting Bolarinwa, we are supporting our future, our children, and the Kwara of our dreams,” he added.
Hambali expressed confidence that the candidate would deliver on his mandate if elected.