Sardaunan Ilorin Legacy Platform, SILEP

17/06/2025

Sardauna's Legacy of Sporting Revolution: Coach Mogaji Salutes Kwara’s Rise to Sporting Excellence

By SILEP

In a moving tribute that aligns with the sentiments of many distinguished Nigerians, Coach Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, has commended the exceptional leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Sardauna of Ilorin, particularly in the realm of sports development. Reflecting on the legacy of the Sardauna of Ilorin and his impact on visionary leadership, Coach Mogaji offered an insightful perspective on the transformative strides made in Kwara’s sporting sector under Governor AbdulRazaq’s watch.

A childhood friend of the Sardauna, Coach Mogaji’s tribute went beyond personal sentiment; it was a measured reflection on a tenure that has redefined the sporting landscape of Kwara State. “Governor AbdulRazaq has taken Kwara’s sports development from the backseat to the national and continental forefront,” Mogaji declared. His words were not merely laudatory but grounded in a series of visible, impactful projects that have reshaped the state’s sporting infrastructure, athlete support systems, and institutional governance.

Building for the Future

Among the Governor’s flagship achievements is the construction of a record number of modern squash courts, unparalleled not only in Nigeria but across West Africa. This ambitious venture has repositioned Kwara as a hub for squash and niche sports, proving that the administration sees beyond the glamour of mainstream games to embrace diverse sporting disciplines.

The recently completed world-class table tennis hall is another testimonial to this inclusive vision. Designed to international standards, the facility offers an enabling environment for emerging talents and serves as a befitting venue for national and international tournaments. Such infrastructure, Mogaji noted, provides a springboard for the next generation of champions.

Equally transformative is the renovation of the state’s long-neglected indoor sports hall, untouched since 1991. Under the current administration, the hall has been fully modernised to accommodate multiple sports, including basketball, volleyball, boxing, judo, and badminton, ushering in a new era of multifunctional sporting excellence.

According to Coach Mogaji, the rehabilitation of internal roads within the Kwara State Stadium Complex is not only about aesthetics but also about accessibility, functionality, and safety. These interventions have significantly improved the experience for athletes, officials, and spectators alike.

More importantly, the administration has placed a premium on athletes themselves. “Athletes are now celebrated, supported, and encouraged,” Mogaji said. He cited the hosting of Kwara-born African Senior Squash Champions as a powerful gesture of recognition, one that not only honours their achievements but also motivates future stars.

Further demonstrating the state’s commitment to youth empowerment, the Governor’s administration sponsored two under-17 athletes for international competitions, a decision that underlines the state’s dedication to talent discovery and development from the grassroots.

Strengthening Institutions

A particularly historic reform has been the institutional elevation of the Kwara State Sports Commission. Mogaji praised this initiative as a critical move that has strengthened governance, improved coordination, and ensured efficient policy implementation across the sector. “This is how lasting change is achieved, by putting strong structures in place,” he affirmed.

Football Reinvigoration

Football, the lifeblood of Nigerian sport, has not been left out. Under Sardauna's leadership, Kwara United Football Club regained its place in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), re-establishing the state’s presence at the top level of national football.

Above league promotion, the club’s operational stability has been bolstered by consistent financial support. “Players and officials have never experienced salary delays under this government, and that has made a significant difference in performance and morale,” Mogaji stated. Logistics, administration, and welfare have all received attention, making Kwara United a competitive force once more.

National Recognition a

The strides made in Kwara’s sports sector have not gone unnoticed. Mogaji revealed that the Sardauna has received commendations from national bodies, including the Progressive Governors Forum, which described his achievements as “breathtaking.”

“These are not just remarkable, they are markers of a new standard in sports governance,” Mogaji insisted. He called on stakeholders across the board; coaches, administrators, athletes, and fans, to align with the Governor’s vision, participate actively in its ex*****on, and safeguard the gains already achieved.

A New Chapter for Kwara Sports

In his final reflections, Coach Mogaji painted a picture of a state transformed, not by chance but by deliberate, strategic leadership. “ Sardauna has laid a solid foundation that future administrations can build upon. He has shown that with the right vision, sports can thrive and become a vehicle for unity, development, and pride.”

Indeed, as Kwara emerges as a pillar of sporting innovation and excellence, the influence of Sardauna’s legacy and reformist zeal converge in a compelling narrative of progress. The future of sports in Kwara is not just promising, it is already impacting.

COURTESY:- Research, Publication and Documentation Unit, SARDAUNAN ILORIN LEGACY PLATFORM ( SILEP): Reflecting Progress, Inspiring the Future...

30/05/2025

House Leader Magaji Hails Gov AbdulRazaq’s Impactful Leadership, Declares Support for SILEP Colloquium, Book Presentation

By SILEP
The Leader of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Honourable Abdulkadir Oba Magaji, has described Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq as the architect of his political success, pledging strong support for initiatives honouring the Governor’s legacy.

" His Excellency Governor AbdulRazaq is the leader that made me. The Sardauna, facilitated my political ambition, accomplishments and vision, and I will ever be grateful to him," Magaji said recently while receiving members of the Publicity Sub-Committee of the 6th Anniversary Colloquium and Book Launch, organised by the Sardaunan Ilorin Legacy Platform (SILEP).

“I will always participate in whatever good things are done in his name in appreciation of his support for me. Be rest assured of my appropriate support in contributing to the success of the forthcoming commemorative programme,” he added.

Magaji also expressed his desire to be actively involved in the event, stressing his commitment to its success.

“Please consider me to be a part of the programme. I am with you, and I will contribute my quota to uplift the event,” he assured.

Considering his selfless service to humanity, it is deserving that all well meaning stakeholders should participate in ensuring the success of the historic event.

" His service to the state and Nigeria is unprecedented, and thank God that the people are appreciating his efforts, dedication, and commitment to the remarkable transformation of Kwara State and nation-building", Hon Magaji affirmed.

The impactful lawmaker offered prayers for the Governor, saying: “May Allah continue to give our Governor and leader more wisdom, vision, and capacity to take Kwara State to greater heights.

Earlier, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, Mallam Umar Abdulwahab, highlighted the objectives of the colloquium, stating that the event aims to deepen public understanding of the Sardauna title, celebrate Governor AbdulRazaq’s legacy, and document his achievements in governance and public service.

He called on stakeholders and admirers of the Sardauna to lend their full support to the event, describing it as a fitting tribute to the Governor’s dedication to progress and humanity.

The committee expressed appreciation to Hon. Magaji for his endorsement of the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to partnering with key stakeholders to ensure the event’s success.

Other members of the committee present at the meeting included Mr Omotayo Ayanda, Alhaji Abdulyakeen Gesua, and Biodun Abdulkareem.

28/05/2025

Dr Alabere Felicitates with Governor’s Mother, Alhaja Raliat AbdulRazaq, on 95th Birthday

The Special Adviser to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, Dr Rabiat Ajoke Jimoh Alabere, has extended warm congratulations to Alhaja Raliat AbdulRazaq, the esteemed mother of the Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON, on the occasion of her 95th birthday.

In a statement released by Sollihu Kazeem, Dr Alabere described the nonagenarian as an exceptional woman whose enduring contributions have positively shaped not only Kwara State but Nigeria at large.

She acknowledged that, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRazaq, the status of women in governance has seen significant advancement, with Kwara State now serving as a benchmark for gender equality in the country.

“We are eternally grateful for your presence and influence in our lives,” said Dr Alabere. “Your role in moulding Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON into a visionary and exemplary leader is truly commendable. We remain thankful for such a gift to our state and nation. We pray that the coming years bring you even more joy, robust health, and deep fulfilment.”

Dr Alabere concluded her message with heartfelt birthday wishes, praying: “Happy birthday to an extraordinary matriarch. May Almighty Allah bless you with many more years of life and happiness.”

27/05/2025

Kwara’s Workers, His Priority: The Labour Legacy of Sardauna - Comrade Onagun

By SILEP
In the unfolding narrative of Kwara State’s political and socio-economic development, the contributions of successive governors have shaped the fabric of governance in distinct ways. Yet, when viewed from the lens of labour advancement and workers’ welfare, one name rises above the rest, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

Comrade Abdulkareem Mumini Onagun, a foremost labour leader and Senior Special Assistant on Labour to the Governor, offered a profound reflection on the Governor’s unique role in redefining labour relations in the state.

“In the annals of Kwara State history, several governors have played different roles in shaping both the political landscape and labour conditions of this state,” Onagun noted. “However, the present Executive Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, stands out tall among them all, with an indelible mark on labour rights and workers' welfare.”

Governor AbdulRazaq assumed office during one of the most turbulent periods for the state’s workforce. Labour relations were strained, marked by broken trust and institutional neglect. Workers endured months of unpaid salaries, or at best, meagre percentages that fell short of dignified compensation. This systemic failure had paralysed morale and productivity across the public service.

“The relationship between the state government and labour unions was shattered,” Onagun recalled. “There was widespread discontent. Workers had lost hope. The entire workforce was in dire need of both immediate relief and a long-term rescue plan.”

Governor AbdulRazaq’s intervention was timely and transformative. Rather than treating labour concerns as peripheral, he placed them at the heart of his governance agenda. His administration cleared arrears, abolished percentage salary payments, and instituted timely, regular disbursement of wages and allowances.

“The coming of His Excellency marked a decisive turning point,” said Comrade Onagun. “He not only responded to the immediate mirage of unsettled welfare issues but also redefined the relationship between labour unions and government. He restored confidence where it had been lost.”

Today, Kwara State enjoys a renewed climate of industrial peace and mutual respect between government and workers. Collective bargaining has shifted from conflict to constructive dialogue. Grievances are now addressed through proactive negotiations, and the welfare of workers is no longer a favour—but a right, respected and upheld.

“Enhanced collective bargaining has become a benchmark under this administration,” Comrade Onagun emphasised. “What we are witnessing is not accidental harmony—it is the product of deliberate, worker-friendly policies anchored in sincerity and fairness.”

Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration, in its labour engagement, has not only solved inherited problems but also institutionalised a new culture of responsibility and respect for labour rights. His legacy, as Onagun rightly asserts, is already being etched in the hearts of thousands of workers and in the chronicles of Kwara’s political history.

In an era where political leadership is often measured by infrastructure alone, Governor AbdulRazaq reminds us that the dignity of labour and the welfare of workers are equally enduring pillars of true progress.

25/05/2025

Region Renewed: Gov AbdulRazaq Charts North Central’s Rise Through Purposeful Politics

By SILEP

In a resolute and unifying address at the recent All Progressive Congress (APC) North Central Zone Stakeholders’ Meeting in Abuja, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq offered a deeply reflective yet forward-looking appraisal of the region’s current political trajectory under the APC-led administration. Speaking both as Governor of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, he reaffirmed his belief that the North Central’s best interest is firmly rooted within the fold of the All Progressives Congress.

“I welcome all of you to this important stakeholders’ meeting of our party in the North Central Zone,” the Governor began, acknowledging the consistent support the region has given to the party and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “I am grateful to you for your turnout and your support for the party, our governments across the region, and particularly for Mr. President.”

His speech highlighted the tangible outcomes of strategic political engagement. A year prior, on 24 May 2024, the region had submitted a bold request to President Tinubu: the establishment of a North Central Development Commission. “Less than a year after, that commission has been established,” Governor AbdulRazaq announced with evident pride. “Our sons and daughters have been appointed to lead the commission. This is a big win for us and we are grateful to Mr. President.”

He further cited major infrastructural projects and high-level appointments that reiterates the administration’s attention to the region’s needs. “We also thank him for new infrastructural projects and appointments for the North Central, including the recent NNPC's Group Chief Executive Officer and many others.”

Among the significant initiatives, he praised the introduction of the national forest guards policy, a security framework tailored to grassroots realities. “This is a bold effort that places local communities at the heart of our national security strategy. It is a policy that we are confident will effectively secure our forests and curtail activities that are inimical to safety of lives and property, and territorial integrity of our nation.”

While recognising the early hardships of reforms, AbdulRazaq asserted that the administration’s efforts are yielding promising results. “Despite the transitional inconveniences of the early stage, Mr. President’s reforms are bearing good fruits and the future looks bright. This is clear from all measurable economic indices.”

Concluding his remarks, the Governor who is also the Coordinator, APC North Central, Nigeria, called for sustained unity and vision. “The North Central has never been this favoured in national reckoning. Yet our region stands to gain a lot more. I therefore call for continuous support for the party and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu beyond 2027. This is good for national cohesion, sustained economic growth, and political stability of our country.”

Governor AbdulRazaq’s address served not only as a report of progress but as a call to deepen the region’s partnership with national leadership, grounded in loyalty, strategic focus, and a shared vision for enduring development.

25/05/2025

25/05/2025

Kwara Commissioner Abdullahi Bata Endorses Colloquium to Honour Governor AbdulRazaq

- Announces Ministry's Partnership with SILEP on Sardauna's Honorary Event

- Invites Stakeholders to Participate

By SILEP

The Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Community Development in Kwara State, Honourable Abdullahi Bata, has hailed Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Sardauna of Ilorin, as a symbol of selfless leadership and transformative governance in the state.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee of the 6th Anniversary National Colloquium and Book Launch organised by the Sardauna of Ilorin Legacy Platform (SILEP), Hon Bata described the Governor as a rare leader who has broken the cycle of underdevelopment through visionary initiatives and people-centred policies.

According to the Commissioner, the appointment of Governor AbdulRazaq as Sardaunan Ilorin by the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari CFR, is not only well-deserved but also a recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of the Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State at large.

“His developmental strides cut across infrastructure, human capital development, healthcare and youth empowerment, with particularly significant impact in Kwara North. Roads, schools, and health facilities have been revitalised, and vulnerable groups empowered,” Bata said.

He further praised the Governor’s unifying leadership style, noting that AbdulRazaq has rekindled hope, unity and progress within Kwara's political and social spheres. “He has inscribed his golden name in the sands of time and remains a role model for current and future generations,” he added.

In recognition of the Governor’s legacy, Hon Bata announced the Ministry’s willingness to partner with SILEP to host a national colloquium in his honour. He described the upcoming event as an opportunity to celebrate the leadership excellence of the Sardauna and to institutionalise his legacy for posterity.

“The colloquium will not only honour His Excellency, but serve as a platform to showcase what sincere, people-first leadership can achieve. We call on all Commissioners, stakeholders and the good people of Kwara to support and actively participate in this historic event,” he said.

The Commissioner also offered prayers for the Governor, asking Allah to grant him good health, long life and continued success in service.

Earlier, Mallam Umar Abdulwahab, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, stated that the colloquium seeks to deepen public understanding of the Sardauna title, celebrate Governor AbdulRazaq’s legacy and document his track record in governance and public service.

He called on stakeholders and admirers of the Sardauna to throw their weight behind the event, which he described as a fitting tribute to the Governor’s commitment to progress and humanity.

The committee extended its appreciation to Hon Abdullahi Bata for his confidence in the Sardauna’s leadership and his partnership in the forthcoming colloquium.

Also present during the courtesy visit were the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs Iyabo Modupe Adekeye; Director of PFS, Hajia Fatima Opobiyi; and the Press Secretary, Mr Abdulazeez Oba. Members of the SILEP Media and Publicity Sub-Committee in attendance included Mr Omotayo Ayanda, Alhaji Abdulyakeen Gesua and Biodun Abdulkareem.