Kwara State has witnessed significant investment in infrastructure and human capital development under Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, with projects spanning road construction, healthcare, education, technology and industrial development.
Yet, despite acknowledging these improvements, many residents say the benefits must now translate into stronger economic opportunities, expanded empowerment programmes and better living conditions.
The administration, led by Governor Abdulrazaq, who also chairs the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, has prioritised transport connectivity, urban renewal, industrialisation and digital innovation as part of efforts to reposition the state for long-term economic growth.
Among the landmark projects are the Ilorin International Conference Centre, the upgrade of Kwara Hotel, the garment factory, shea butter processing facility, the Ilorin Innovation Hub and specialised ICT centres designed to boost entrepreneurship, digital skills and job creation.
The government has also continued investments in healthcare through the construction and rehabilitation of public hospitals, while road projects across urban and rural communities are aimed at improving mobility and attracting private investment.
However, BusinessDay Sunday interviews with residents across the state suggest that while many appreciate the physical transformation, they expect greater attention to household welfare, job creation and economic empowerment.
Omotayo Ahmad, a resident of Ilorin West, said the administration deserves credit for improving road infrastructure and youth development.
‘The governor has done well in infrastructure and youth empowerment. Many roads have been rehabilitated and fitted with streetlights, making movement easier. In Ilorin West, projects such as the Popo Igbana-Oja-Oba Road have made a noticeable difference,’ he said.
Ahmad, however, noted that many families continue to struggle with the rising cost of living.
‘There is little money in circulation, and feeding has become difficult. Government should expand palliative support and consider measures that make food and medicines more affordable,’ he added.
Uwerunonye Nike, Public affairs analyst, described the administration’s infrastructure drive as a foundation for future economic expansion.
He cited projects including the Finance House, KWIRS House, the International Conference Centre, the renovation of Kwara Hotel and the expansion of road networks within Ilorin as developments capable of transforming the state into a more attractive destination for business and investment.
‘These are the building blocks of a modern city capable of attracting economic activities. The state’s political environment has also become less dominated by Godfatherism.
For Joseph Oguniyi, a resident of Ilorin South Local Government Area, the urban renewal programme has improved accessibility, particularly for persons with disabilities, but should be extended to more communities.
He urged the government to rehabilitate roads in areas such as Ero-Omo Kilanko and Offa Garage, warning that worsening erosion has made emergency response increasingly difficult.
‘The government should also intensify efforts in job creation and youth empowerment to address unemployment,’ he said.
Not all residents share the same level of optimism.
Musa Aliyu, a public commentator, argued that although the administration has invested in infrastructure, it has fallen short of the broader expectations that accompanied the O To Ge movement.
He expressed concerns over rising tuition costs in state-owned tertiary institutions and called for greater investment in roads that connect productive communities rather than concentrating development within established urban areas.
At the grassroots level, traders are seeking greater inclusion in government intervention programmes.
Adenike Abdulkareem, who trades at the Ilorin Central Market, called for regular town hall meetings between government officials and market women to ensure support initiatives reach intended beneficiaries.
‘The government is trying, but more engagement is needed. Programmes like Owo Isowo did not reach everyone. We want government to understand our needs directly and provide genuine support for small businesses,’ she said.
Similarly, Ibrahim Zakariyah, an Osun State indigene working in Ilorin, commended the administration’s infrastructure projects but urged it to devote its remaining period in office to improving the welfare of vulnerable residents.
‘The governor has performed well, especially in infrastructure. Going forward, more attention should be given to helping the less privileged cope with the economic hardship. Future administrations can then build on these achievements by addressing issues such as water supply, electricity and education,’ he said.
The residents’ views reflect a common theme: while many acknowledge the state’s visible infrastructure transformation, they want the next phase of development to place greater emphasis on economic empowerment, employment generation and improving the everyday lives of Kwarans.