Emir of Ilorin pledges support for AbdulRazaq on development projects
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The ongoing urban renewal projects of the Kwara State Government have our full support as they are necessary for socio-economic development and a sustainable environment, Emir of Ilorin Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari said on Thursday, urging Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to continue the extensive infrastructural works.
“I am pleased with the foresight of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq in the ongoing expansion and reconstruction of roads across the state, particularly within the Ilorin metropolis. What the government is doing is essential for the development of the capital city and the state at large,” the Emir told a government delegation led by the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, and the Special Adviser on Special Duties, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Jiddah.
“I am aware of the significant road projects underway, and as a traditional institution, we will continue to support the administration with prayers for its success. You are doing the right thing. As I said before, the Governor’s performance is res ipsa loquitur (self-evident). When one embarks on such projects, you shouldn’t listen to the naysayers. They will appreciate it once it is completed. So, I urge you to continue the good work.”
Among the delegation were the Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Damilola Yusuf-Adelodun; Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge; Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Geographical Information Service, Alhaji Abdulkareem Suleiman; Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Infrastructure, Engr. Ladi Yusuf; and other senior officials.
The team visited the Emir to seek further support for the road project from Works Roundabout to Post Office, through Emir’s Road, down to Isale Oja, and other areas.
The Emir of Ilorin urged the government to continue its expansion program without further delay.
“It is good that you employ a traditional approach for your advocacy, and I want to assure you of maximum support for your success. Don’t be distracted. It is normal for a few individuals to say negative things about what you do. Your projects are visible for all to see. You should continue your infrastructural renewal and expansion programs without further delay,” the Emir said.
Jiddah, for his part, explained that the visit was to seek the cooperation and support of the Emir and the larger community for the projects within the Ilorin metropolis.
“This advocacy tour is important for us in line with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s urban renewal agenda. The visit to the Emir is to seek more cooperation and support for all our projects, especially road expansion and urban renewal initiatives,” he said.
Speaking with newsmen on the sidelines of the visit, Olododo also sought public support for the extensive construction works from the Ministry of Works Roundabout through Emir’s Road to Isale-Oja Junction, Adifa to Gambari, and Balogun-Fulani back to Emir’s Road.
“From the Ministry of Works Roundabout to Isale-Oja Junction, and from Adifa to Gambari and Balogun-Fulani back to Emir’s Road, is about 5.8 km. This will be completed within four months,” he said.
“The traditional approach remains the best approach because, as the leader of the Emirate, we believe that once the Emir speaks to our people through the Alanguas, Daodus, and Magajis, effective communication will be established and compliance will be a lot easier.
“We need the support and collaboration of the Emir on the setbacks that the projects will reclaim. This will affect the temporary structures built on government setbacks along the routes. We also discussed the illegal refuse dumping by some people, which endangers everyone.”
