Communication, Hon. Bola Olukoju; Kwara State APC Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi; Commissioner for Social Development, Dr. Mariam Nnafatima Imam; Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf; Salman Abdullah; Emir of Shonga, Dr. Haliru Yahaya; Hebrew Peculiar; Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON); Abdulsalam AbdulMalik; and Issa Mutmaheenat Yetunde; during Kwara State Coding and Digital Literacy Programme, in Ilorin.
The Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering young technology enthusiasts and positioning the state as a hub for innovation and digital excellence.
The Governor expressed delight at the growing achievements of young people in the technology sector, particularly evident at the just-concluded Kwara Coding and Digital Literacy Programme, themed “Kwara Futures: Empowering a Digitally Ready Generation.”
The programme, organised by the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Digital Innovation, Kayode Ishola, formed part of the Kwara Futures Exhibition 2025.
Governor AbdulRazaq said his administration remained steadfast in creating pathways for collaboration between local innovators, international tech accelerators, and cross-border investors.
“Our administration is unwavering in its commitment to transform Kwara into a beacon of technological excellence and empower our youth to lead the digital revolution,” he said.
The Governor said; “By investing in cutting-edge infrastructure and fostering a supportive ecosystem, we are equipping our brilliant young techies with the tools to turn bold ideas into global realities.
“For the first time in our state’s history, Kwara is etching its name on the world map of digital startups, thanks to the innovative spirit of our entrepreneurs and the strategic policies we’ve implemented.”
Govenror AbdulRazaq described the progress recorded as ‘proof of how creativity is propelling young Kwarans from local innovators to international players, attracting global investors and partnerships.’
He commended Ishola and his team for their dedication to the programme’s success.
He said; “As sponsors of this Kwara Futures Exhibition 2025, we stand with you in this journey—let’s harness this momentum to drive sustainable growth and innovation.
“Young techies, your vision is our blueprint. Together, we’ll ensure Kwara doesn’t just appear on the map—we’ll redefine it as a global hub for tomorrow’s solutions. The future is here, and it’s Kwara’s to claim.”
The event, held in Ilorin, the state capital, featured top government officials, the Emir of Shonga, HRH Dr. Haliru Yahaya, telecom sector leaders, and students.
Activities included exhibitions, panel discussions, and an award ceremony recognising outstanding schools.
Among the innovative projects showcased were
- Smart School Attendance System
- Universal Report Card Generator
- Weather Forecast Application
- Python-Based Banking Simulation Project
- Expense Visualiser
- Web Dictionary App
- Igbaja Farm Expense Tracker (IFET) App
United Junior Secondary School, Ilorin, emerged as the overall winner, receiving a ₦1 million cash prize, Ilorin Grammar School (IGS) secured the first runner-up position with ₦500,000, while Government Girls’ Day Secondary School, Pakata, came third, receiving ₦250,000.
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Ishola said the programme seeks to bridge the digital divide and prepare young Kwarans for opportunities in a rapidly evolving tech-driven world.
He disclosed that between August 2024 and October 2025, 5,604 students across 50 public secondary schools had been trained, supported by over 120 instructors, including NYSC members, ICT teachers, and digital volunteers.
Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, noted that the government had significantly increased education funding to about 14% of the state budget, up from just over 5% in previous administrations.
He described Governor AbdulRazaq as “a visionary leader committed to equipping the state’s youth with the skills required to thrive in the modern economy.”
Other dignitaries including the Commissioner for Communications, Bola Olukoju; the Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Damilola Yusuf Adelodun; and the Commissioner for Social Development, Hajia Mariam Nnafatima Imam, all commended the Governor’s focus on digital literacy and innovation.
Representing the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT), Mrs. Funmilayo Obi praised the governor’s youth-focused leadership.
“Your Excellency, you are indeed showing Nigeria and the world that when we invest in our youth, we invest in a future that is timeless, inclusive, and extraordinary,” she said.
