Visitors laud Gov AbdulRazaq’s urban renewal projects

As Nigerians travelled across the country for the ongoing festivities, Kwara State was widely praised for its remarkable transformation under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

Visitors and residents alike have been captivated by the city’s new look, with many appreciating the governor’s urban renewal initiatives.

Kano-based Faith Awofadeju couldn’t hide her elation with the road networks and the neat environment.

“Ilorin is improving and better in terms of roads and everything; it is better than before. The places I visited are neat,” she confided in our reporter, also appreciating the ongoing infrastructure development, which she advised be extended to other parts of the state.

According to Abiodun Babatunde, a visitor from Ibadan, “There is so much work going on,” noting: “Even the Post Office area is very different—I almost got lost yesterday wondering if I was still in Ilorin.”

Like Faith, Babatunde also suggested: “However, I believe these new developments will bring rules, like no parking, for residents to follow.”

A City in Transition

The changes in Ilorin have sparked conversations on urban development and its impact on residents.

Engr. Onoja Olushola acknowledged the progress but called for the prompt completion of ongoing projects, saying: “It is a great improvement, but we are still expecting to see the finishes. We wish them more effort.”

Femi Raphael, who traveled from Abuja, highlighted the economic potential of the city’s transformation. “The governor’s efforts in infrastructure are commendable and will positively impact citizens’ lives,” he said.

Oyinloye Alex, visiting from Port Harcourt, praised the construction of new roads and a flyover, saying: “Such infrastructure not only enhances the city’s aesthetics but also improves traffic flow and accessibility. Visitors and residents alike are likely to feel a sense of pride in the city’s modernization efforts,” emphasizing the need for maintenance and sustainability.

Government’s Response and Commitment

The Kwara State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, assured residents of the government’s commitment to inclusive development.

Speaking during a radio interview, Olododo highlighted ongoing projects, including the 221.87 kilometers of rural roads and additional road projects in collaboration with the federal government.

He said: “We can’t fix all roads at once, but the commitment is there, and step by step, every community will see progress.”

He emphasized the administration’s focus on fostering business activities and economic growth, disclosing that over 190 projects have been initiated across the state since 2023.

Governor AbdulRazaq also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment during the 59th National Conference of the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU).

He showcased key achievements, including the Ilorin Smart City project and his plans for the State University of Education.

He said: “We are proudly transforming the landscape of Ilorin,” adding: “From Sulu-Gambari Road to Oja Oba, Unity Road to Tanke Junction, Ilorin now stands shoulder to shoulder with leading capital cities in our country. These developments are not just about infrastructure but also about creating opportunities for economic growth.”

A Call for Sustained Progress

The president of the IEDPU commended the administration’s efforts but called for further expansion of infrastructure. “The completed and numerous ongoing projects will completely change the face of not only Ilorin but also the entirety of Kwara State,” he said.

As the festive season continues, the sentiment among many residents and visitors is clear: while they celebrate the visible progress, they also hope for sustained development and affordability to ensure a brighter future for all.