• Home
  • Anti-Corruption
  • Fact-Check
  • Economy
  • National
    • Government
  • Security
  • Features
  • State
  • Event
    • PR Nigeria Award
  • E-Paper
Search
  • Home
  • About
  • Adverts
  • Contact
Sign in
Welcome! Log into your account
Forgot your password? Get help
Password recovery
Recover your password
A password will be e-mailed to you.
PRNIGERIA PRNigeria News
PRNIGERIA PRNIGERIA
  • Home
  • Anti-Corruption
    • ICPC Secures Conviction of Rector for Running Unaccredited Degree Programmes

      Engr Abba Babagana Dalori

      Engr Dalori Forfeits Galaxy Hospital, Petrol Station, Properties & Cash

      Chinese nationals jailed in Lagos

      Court Jails Nine Chinese Nationals for Cybercrime in Lagos

      ASUU

      Tackle Corruption, Institutional Decay – ASUU Charges FG

      EFCC Arraigns Bauchi Accountant General Over N8bn Fraud as Court Sentences…

  • Fact-Check
  • Economy
    • Economic Confidential to Host 3rd Public Lecture, Unveil Books on Nigeria’s…

      Luanda Summit: AUDA-NEPAD Taps AI, Green Bonds as it Launches Marketplace…

      Tinubu Jets to Brazil After Japan Summit, Eyes Trade, Security Deals

      Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR), hosted the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr. Zacch Adedeji,

      Customs and the “National Single Window” Project

      FG Earmarks N13bn to Boost Power Infrastructure in Lagos, Ogun

  • National
    • Prof ibrahim gambari Chief of Staff

      Reciprocity, Key to Global Relations, Says Ex-Minister Gambari

      Economic Confidential to Host 3rd Public Lecture, Unveil Books on Nigeria’s…

      Flood

      Flood Alert: Heavy Rains Threaten 7 Nigerian States this Weekend August…

      Officers of NCS as it rounds off its Strategic Reputation Management Campaign in Zone 'D', Bauchi

      Customs Consolidates Reforms as Reputation Campaign Wraps Up in Zone ‘D’

      CG Custom Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and Zacch Adedeji

      Is Zacch Adedeji Building Bridges for Nigeria’s Revenue Future? By Yushau…

    • Government
      • CG Custom Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and Zacch Adedeji

        Is Zacch Adedeji Building Bridges for Nigeria’s Revenue Future? By Yushau…

        ACF

        Arewa Consultative Forum Engages Influencers to Amplify Northern Identity

        FG, States, LGs Share N2.001trn for July, Says FAAC

        FG Unveils Personal Income Tax Calculator Under New Reform Laws

        Saudi Arabia Conducts Life-Saving Cardiac surgeries in Kano

        Saudi Arabia Conducts Life-Saving Cardiac Surgeries in Kano

  • Security
    • The eliminated terrorists and their weapons

      OPHK Troops Neutralize Scores of Terrorists in Borno and Yobe States

      Police Neutralise Kidnappers, Arrest Suspects, Recover Arms in Nationwide Crackdown

      Police Officer

      Police Raid Bandits’ Camps, Recover Arms, Arrest Suspects in Benue

      Flood

      Flood Alert: Heavy Rains Threaten 7 Nigerian States this Weekend August…

      NAF Eliminates Over 35 Terrorists at Assembly Point Near Cameroon Border

  • Features
    • CG Custom Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and Zacch Adedeji

      Is Zacch Adedeji Building Bridges for Nigeria’s Revenue Future? By Yushau…

      Army soldiers security

      Mattress of Terror: Can Nigeria Ever Be Truly Secure? By Haroon…

      The Arrest of Ansaru Kingpins Mahmud Muhammad Usman aka Abu Bara’a, and Mahmud al-Nigeri aka Mallam Mamuda

      Ribadu and the fall of Ansaru By Senator Iroegbu

      Fixing the Fault Lines in Nigeria’s Culture of Recognition, By Mukhtar…

      How Desperation Turns Nigerian Job Seekers Into Scam Targets By Tahir…

  • State
    • The eliminated terrorists and their weapons

      OPHK Troops Neutralize Scores of Terrorists in Borno and Yobe States

      Police Neutralise Kidnappers, Arrest Suspects, Recover Arms in Nationwide Crackdown

      Police Officer

      Police Raid Bandits’ Camps, Recover Arms, Arrest Suspects in Benue

      Nigerian Navy Personnel

      Navy Dismantles Illegal Refining Site in Bayelsa

      ACF

      Arewa Consultative Forum Engages Influencers to Amplify Northern Identity

  • Event
    • Economic Confidential to Host 3rd Public Lecture, Unveil Books on Nigeria’s…

      President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

      His Death is a National Loss, Tinubu Mourns Emir of Zuru

      Umar Lauya

      Umar Lauya Declares Candidacy for NYCN Presidency, Vows to Unite and…

      The Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Sugar Department Council (NSDC), Mr. Kamar Bakrin (L), with the CEO of Legacy Sugar Company, Alh. Abubakar Isa Musa (R), during the signing ceremony.

      NSDC, New Operators Seal Landmark Development Agreements, to Produce 400,000MT of…

      Regional Vice President Western and Central Africa at the World Bank, Mr Ousmane Diagana pays a courtesy visit to Baze University

      World Bank Vice President visits Baze University, Commends Educational Standards, Assures…

    • PR Nigeria Award
  • E-Paper
Home Features Governor AA: The Roadmaster in Kwara! By Yushau A. Shuaib
  • Features

Governor AA: The Roadmaster in Kwara! By Yushau A. Shuaib

By
Yushau A. Shuaib
-
September 22, 2024

Governor AA: The Roadmaster in Kwara!
By Yushau A. Shuaib

Before anyone critiques my choice of words, let me clarify what I mean by “Roadmaster.” This term can refer to various roles—from the official responsible for maintaining railroads to a public overseer of road repairs and even a well-known bicycle brand famed for its versatility. In the context of road construction and maintenance, it fittingly describes someone who excels in enhancing infrastructure, making it an apt moniker for Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq of Kwara State.

While ‘Roadmaster’ may also refer to a specialised machine in the road construction industry used to remedy potholes and other road defects through a cost-effective and environmentally friendly spray injection method, it serves as a metaphor for effective leadership.

During my recent trip to Ilorin, after an absence of six months, I was struck by the visible transformation of the city. The expansive roadwork, featuring upgrades to existing routes and the construction of new ones, offers compelling evidence of positive change under the leadership of Governor Abdulrazaq, affectionately known as AA or RR due to his compound name.

My first and only encounter with Governor Abdulrahman took place in December 2021 when he graciously welcomed a team from Image Merchants Promotion Limited, the publishers of PRNigeria, Economic Confidential, and several other titles, into his office in Ilorin. His genuine warmth, personal engagement, and sincere interest in our work left an indelible mark on me, fostering a sense of connection and involvement.

Facilitating the courtesy call was his Special Adviser, Mallam Abdulrazak Jiddah, a family friend I have known for over three decades, with invaluable support from the governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Abdulrafiu Ajakaiye.

During our meeting, I was particularly impressed by the governor’s humility, especially in light of my past criticisms regarding the demolition of Ile-Arugbo. Despite facing scrutiny over what some perceived as excessive frugality with public funds, our discussions unveiled his ambitious vision for transforming Kwara State into one of Nigeria’s most prosperous, secure, and peaceful regions.

Compared to many Northern states grappling with banditry and terrorism, Kwara is a beacon of relative safety in the North-Central region. This achievement speaks to Governor Abdulrazak’s innovative security strategies, which have successfully shielded the state from the violent criminalities affecting neighbouring areas.

Although he faces political opposition and criticism concerning his governance style, Abdulrazak’s achievements as the governor of Kwara State are undeniable. His substantial contributions to major road networks have elevated the pride of residents and visitors alike.

The administration has initiated significant road projects aimed at improving connectivity both within the state and beyond. Major thoroughfares are being enhanced, and numerous inner roads are at various stages of construction. Noteworthy projects include improvements to the streets leading from the airport to Al-Hikmah University and the routes connecting to PRNigeria Centre at Airforce Road, Oloje Federal Housing Estate. The visible transformation of the city centre and ongoing infrastructure upgrades are commendable.

With interlocked roads in its hinterlands, many of the city’s ageing road networks are now receiving significant upgrades. New flyovers like the Tunde Idiagbon Bridge and Unity Flyover reshape the city’s landscape, minimise travel time, and enhance the capital’s beauty.

Read Also:

  • Economic Confidential to Host 3rd Public Lecture, Unveil Books on Nigeria’s Economic Future
  • OPHK Troops Neutralize Scores of Terrorists in Borno and Yobe States
  • Police Neutralise Kidnappers, Arrest Suspects, Recover Arms in Nationwide Crackdown

The Wahab Folawiyo Road along Unity Road boasts the quality and aesthetics characteristic of the continent’s capital cities. Similarly, Ahmadu Bello Way and Sulu Gambari Road contribute to a newfound urban elegance that residents and visitors can appreciate.

At least 35 inner roads are either completed or in various stages of completion in Ilorin, while numerous other projects are underway in the surrounding areas. They include the 4.7km Yebumot-Adeta-Oloje route, the 13km Ile Ire District road and the first post-colonial Orisa Bridge (Oro Ago). Other projects include Arandun-Esie-Oro and Omu Aran-Oko roads.

In the northern part of the state, the government initiated the ambitious 128-kilometre Bode Saadu/Kaiama/Kosubosu road, alongside the 74.3km Bacita-Shonga-Lafiagi route, and several others, totaling over N400 billion in investments. Once completed, the Bode Saadu road will significantly alter the travel dynamics for those commuting from the capital city to various parts of the state.

Additional projects, including the Emir Palace Road and erosion control at Dumagi and roads in Baruten and rural areas, contribute to an extensive network of 84.7km of rural road developments throughout the state.

Abdulrasak is also working to restore order with the new Ilorin City Master Plan other described as the Smart City Project, which allows for the thoughtful expansion of the capital while respecting sustainable living principles without compromising our rich cultural heritage as Africans. The initiative targets economic growth through hospitality, agribusiness, innovation, tourism, and vital human capital and healthcare investments.

One supporter of the governor expressed to me how Abdulrazak is metamorphosing Kwara into an economic hub through strategic initiatives. The governor has not only cleared over ₦15 billion in salary and promotion arrears, but he has also overhauled educational infrastructure in more than 605 schools. Additionally, he established a new dental centre, eye care facility, intensive care units, and upgraded hospital wards.

His projects extend to constructing an international conference centre, an industrial park, an agro-processing zone, and Nigeria’s largest garment factory, all aimed at bolstering the local economy.

Moreover, the governor is committed to gender inclusivity and youth empowerment, exemplified by his appointing dynamic young leaders to his cabinet. Notably, 29-year-old Hon Abdulquawiy Olododo serves as the Commissioner for Works and Transport, overseeing substantial road networks and infrastructure development in the state—an inspiring illustration of youth involvement in governance.

However, a pressing concern remains, particularly in the Ilorin Emirate, the state capital. The increasing presence of Almajiri beggars has become a troubling issue. Their numbers not only create a nuisance around the Emir’s palace and the central mosque but also pose potential security threats to the community, especially in light of the challenges faced by surrounding states plagued by armed banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

As the Chairman of the Governors Forum, Governor Abdulrazak has a unique opportunity to lead a national crusade against the Almajiri phenomenon. By addressing this issue head-on, he can set a powerful example for other state leaders to follow, promoting a coordinated response prioritising safety and social well-being across the country.

Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazak’s economic vision stands firmly on the pillars of hospitality, creativity, entertainment, agribusiness, entrepreneurship, and tourism—an ambitious yet achievable dream underpinned by a commitment to developing human capital and a robust healthcare system. The ongoing evolution of Kwara is a testament to the promising future that lies ahead under his leadership.

Yushau A. Shuaib is the Publisher of PRNigeria
www.YAShuaib.com, [email protected]

VISIT OUR OTHER WEBSITES
PRNigeria.com EconomicConfidential.com PRNigeria.com/Hausa/
EmergencyDigest.com PoliticsDigest.ng TechDigest.ng
HealthDigest.ng SpokesPersonsdigest.com TeensDigest.ng
ArewaAgenda.com Hausa.ArewaAgenda.com YAShuaib.com
  • TAGS
  • AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq
  • Ilorin.
  • Kwara State
Previous articleProf. Gwarzo Hails First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on 64th Birthday
Next articleTinubu: Don’t Scrap Humanitarian Ministry, Appoint a Competent Leadership, by Mukhtar Ya’u Madobi
Yushau A. Shuaib
Yushau A. Shuaib

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

Prof ibrahim gambari Chief of Staff

Reciprocity, Key to Global Relations, Says Ex-Minister Gambari

Economic Confidential to Host 3rd Public Lecture, Unveil Books on Nigeria’s Economic Future

The eliminated terrorists and their weapons

OPHK Troops Neutralize Scores of Terrorists in Borno and Yobe States

Ibrahim Yahaya Dandakata of Arewa Economic Forum

Arewa Economic Forum Chairman Loses Mother

Flood

Flood Alert: Heavy Rains Threaten 7 Nigerian States this Weekend August 24-24

CG Custom Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and Zacch Adedeji

Is Zacch Adedeji Building Bridges for Nigeria’s Revenue Future? By Yushau A. Shuaib

Army soldiers security

Mattress of Terror: Can Nigeria Ever Be Truly Secure? By Haroon Aremu Abiodun

Police Recover arms from Boko Haram in Borno

Man, 65, arrested for illegal arms deal in Anambra – Police

Delegations Arrive Abuja for Inaugural African Defence Chiefs Summit

Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA

Troops Neutralise 7 Bandits, Recover Motorcycles in Katsina

CRUSHING BLOW: other Top Boko Haram commanders neutralized in Bita, Wigo

Rotimi Pedro, Karimah Bello, Stella Din Jacob, Sophia Essahmed

PHOTOS: Finally, President Tinubu Confirms Pedro as NTA DG, Announces Three Female Executive Directors

Recent Posts

  • Reciprocity, Key to Global Relations, Says Ex-Minister Gambari
  • Economic Confidential to Host 3rd Public Lecture, Unveil Books on Nigeria’s Economic Future
  • OPHK Troops Neutralize Scores of Terrorists in Borno and Yobe States
  • Police Neutralise Kidnappers, Arrest Suspects, Recover Arms in Nationwide Crackdown
  • Police Raid Bandits’ Camps, Recover Arms, Arrest Suspects in Benue
  • Home
  • About
  • Adverts
  • Contact
© 2020 PRNigeria. All Rights Reserved.
Latest News
Reciprocity, Key to Global Relations, Says Ex-Minister GambariEconomic Confidential to Host 3rd Public Lecture, Unveil Books on Nigeria’s Economic FutureOPHK Troops Neutralize Scores of Terrorists in Borno and Yobe StatesPolice Neutralise Kidnappers, Arrest Suspects, Recover Arms in Nationwide CrackdownPolice Raid Bandits’ Camps, Recover Arms, Arrest Suspects in BenueArewa Economic Forum Chairman Loses MotherLuanda Summit: AUDA-NEPAD Taps AI, Green Bonds as it Launches Marketplace for Africa’s Infrastructure PushFlood Alert: Heavy Rains Threaten 7 Nigerian States this Weekend August 24-24NAF Eliminates Over 35 Terrorists at Assembly Point Near Cameroon BorderPolice Arrest 65-Year-Old Arms Trader, Suspected Chinese Illegal Miner in AnambraCustoms Consolidates Reforms as Reputation Campaign Wraps Up in Zone ‘D’Navy Dismantles Illegal Refining Site in BayelsaIs Zacch Adedeji Building Bridges for Nigeria’s Revenue Future? By Yushau A. ShuaibMattress of Terror: Can Nigeria Ever Be Truly Secure? By Haroon Aremu AbiodunArewa Consultative Forum Engages Influencers to Amplify Northern Identity
X whatsapp