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.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the Governor expressed delight at the achievements of young people in the technology sector, particularly evident at the recently 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, was part of the Kwara Futures Exhibition 2025.
Governor AbdulRazaq emphasized his administration’s dedication to creating pathways for collaboration between local innovators, international tech accelerators, and cross-border investors. He stated, “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 further highlighted the importance of investing in infrastructure and fostering a supportive ecosystem to equip young tech enthusiasts with the tools to bring their ideas to a global platform. “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,” AbdulRazaq noted.
The Governor commended Ishola and his team for their dedication to the success of the programme and urged young techies to continue driving sustainable growth and innovation. He remarked, “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 event, held in Ilorin, 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 recognizing outstanding schools. Among the innovative projects showcased were the Smart School Attendance System, Universal Report Card Generator, Weather Forecast Application, and others.
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.
Ishola stated that the programme seeks to bridge the digital divide and prepare young Kwarans for opportunities in a rapidly evolving tech-driven world. Between August 2024 and October 2025, 5,604 students across 50 public secondary schools were 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 the government’s significant increase in education funding to about 14% of the state budget, up from just over 5% in previous administrations. He praised 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, 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, stating, “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.”