AbdulRazaq: Kaiama Shea butter factory to drive economic growth
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has said the Shea Butter Processing Factory in Kaiama Local Government Area is ready for commissioning, describing the facility as a catalyst for economic growth and agricultural development.
The governor said the factory, described as the second-largest shea processing facility in Nigeria, would promote local value addition, create economic opportunities and boost the economy of Kaiama and the state when fully operational.
AbdulRazaq spoke in Ilorin while receiving a delegation from Kaiama, led by the Emir, Alhaji Muazu Omar, during a thank-you visit to Ahmadu Bello House. The delegation visited to appreciate the governor’s efforts in securing the release of the 163 victims of the Woro abduction incident.
In response, the governor thanked the delegation for its show of gratitude, adding that the success recorded in addressing the security challenge was a collective achievement deserving of commendation.
On the community’s request for the resumption of construction on the Bode-Saadu-Kaiama road, AbdulRazaq said the project was stalled following the abduction of two Chinese nationals, who were later released. He added that he was engaging the relevant authorities to ensure the contractors returned to the site and could work safely.
The governor also pledged to seek an appointment with the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in the coming week to discuss ways to accelerate work on the Kishi-Kaiama road and Moro Bridge projects. He said the discussions would focus on addressing delays and improving road connectivity.
Earlier, the Emir commended AbdulRazaq’s swift response following the Woro attack, saying his interventions contributed to the eventual safe return of the victims. He also acknowledged the governor’s role in facilitating Operation Savannah Shield and paying the medical bills of injured security personnel and forest guards in subsequent attacks.
Omar further thanked President Bola Tinubu for his response to the community’s plight and appealed to the governor to engage the Federal Government on the resumption of the Bode-Saadu-Kaiama road project to ease the movement of people and goods. He also praised AbdulRazaq’s support for a power shift to Kwara North, describing the position as a reflection of inclusiveness and solidarity with the people of the region.
