Mujeeedah's blog

Our brigade played key role in clearing ISWAP – Commander

Major General Oluwafemi Williams, Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi Cantonment, Ilorin, says the brigade played a key role in clearing out Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP).

Williams said this during the Nigeria Army Social Activities, which marked the end of 2024 training activities and beginning of 2025 training activities, on Friday in Ilorin.

The major general said that the brigade has also been duly involved in curtailing unrest, as well as eradicating bandits and kidnappers from previously occupied areas.

“We operated in Nanu Forest in Kaima, Babanla Forest in Ifelodun, and Gbugbu Forest in Edu, resulting in several arrests.

“We also maintained offensive operations within Kainji Lake National Park and remain committed to eradicating kidnappers, resolving farmer-herder conflicts in the border Kwara South area, which includes Obo-Ile, Ayegunle, and Eruku.

“Our success is attributed to the dedication and commitment of the personnel in executing their assigned tasks, along with the support of the people and government of Kwara.

“I also acknowledge the contributions of other security agencies, who have been instrumental in achieving the positive outcome and sustaining the peace currently enjoyed in Kwara and other areas of responsibility,” Williams said.

He also said that the annual event was aimed at bringing families and sister agencies together, and designed to enable troops recast from the regimental life and have a sense of cultural affiliation.

“It is more than a celebration, but a testament to the strong bond and unity we share as a community.

“This event is going to foster friendship, interaction, cordial relationship with our civilian friends and communities adjacent to sobi barracks,” he said.

Part of the events that took place during the celebration includes; cultural display by various groups, physical training display and Tug of War.

Also, five soldiers were given awards of excellence for their distinctive roles during 2024.

In Kwara, pre-Christmas purchases go on unhindered in spite of high prices

Several residents of Ilorin have been making purchases in preparation for the Christmas celebrations even in the face of high prices, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

A market survey conducted by NAN in some markets in Ilorin on Tuesday indicate that, in spite of complaints about high prices of foodstuffs especially, many people have been making purchases.

Mrs Racheal Bamgboye, one of the Christmas celebrants, told NAN at Mandate Market that prices of foodstuffs had started increasing since the removal of fuel subsidy became a certainty.

She said the prices had been increasing further during the festive periods, especially as demands became plenty and people’s mood started changing.

“The marketers are using the opportunity to increase the prices because they know that we won’t have a choice but to buy and celebrate the Christmas.

“I just hope that the prices will go down after the whole celebration in January,” Bamgboye said.

Mr Femi Adigun, another celebrant, urged for government intervention to regulate market prices, saying some foodstuffs were unnecessarily expensive.

He also pointed out that Nigerian products were now competing with foreign products in terms of prices, in spite of the differences in quality and their availability in the country.

“Many people now prefer to buy foreign foods because the price difference is just a few thousands and they are getting what they paid for.

“So, Nigeria needs to work on many things in order to encourage people to buy local goods and enhance the economy of the country, such as the price of goods and their quality,” Adigun said.

Mrs Funmilayo Ajayi, a buyer, said she preferred to buy her vegetables, such as tomatoes, pepper and onions, at the Mandate Market than any other market because of lower prices.

She said vegetables are very expensive at other markets across Ilorin and extremely expensive in residential areas, urging people to visit markets for shopping.

“Foodstuff are less expensive in Oja-Oba market and Ipata market, but tomatoes, pepper and onions are better when bought at Mandate Market,” Ajayi said.

NAN reports that a big basket of tomatoes at Mandate Market cost N75,000, while a small (waste paper size) basket goes for N5,000 and a bag of pepper goes for N58,000.

A bag of rice costs N85,000, while a 25-litre keg of groundnut oil costs N96,000.

A live broiler chicken costs between N25,000 and N15,000, depending on sizes, while a local chicken costs N10,000.

Christmas shopping at Mandate Market, Ilorin

Kwara University Teaching Hospital charges health workers on professionalism

Dr. Bola Ahmed, Chief Medical Director of Kwara University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH) has charged health workers in the state to always maintain high standards of professionalism while fulfilling their responsibilities to the public.

Dr Ahmed gave the charge during a program organized by the Nursing Department of the hospital, for retired Nurses.

According to him, “professionalism is our watch word. It is therefore expected of us to always exhibit it in all our dealings with clients, to sustain standard we are known for.”

The Chief Medical Director enjoined the hospital members of staff to continually support the present administration, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, at sustaining the set standard of heath care delivery.

He commended the organisers of the events for identifying with retirees, who had contributed immensely to the development of health care delivery, adding that their selfless services and dedications to duties would be sustained.

The health expert also urged other health workers in government services to emulate the good legacies of hard work, commitment and dedication to duties of the retires.

He prayed that Almighty God grant the retirees a long life with sound health, to enable them reap the fruits of their labours.

Dr AbdulRaheem Malik, Executive Secretary, Hospital Management Bureau, represented by Director of Pharmacist, Pharm. Mustapha Jimoh gave kudos to the retirees for their notable work in the development of the Hospital.

He urged those that were still in service to emulate and build on the legacies of the retirees.

“Those still in service will continue to tap from their experiences and so, they should always be ready to give back to the society, whenever their service are needed,” Malik said.

Hajia Nimota Yusuf, Head of Nursing Department appreciated the five retirees for sustaining core values and the ethics of guiding the profession, while in serve.

She assured them that their legacy of unwavering commitment and high level of dedication to duty would be a wake-up call for the rest of them in service.

The retirees include; Mrs Sulyman Taibat, Mrs Alabi Muibat, Mrs Omosebi Elizabeth, Mrs Oladokun Modupe and Mrs Adefila Comfort.

The programme was well attended by the Management and Staff of hospital and other well wishers.

Dr Bola Ahmed, CMD Kwara University Teaching Hospital

SEASON GREETINGS

Agriculture: Experts advise farmers to explore use of plant extracts as insecticide

Dr. Adeola
Odewole, a Lecturer of the Department of Crop and Environmental Protection at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, has advised Nigerian farmers to explore the use of plant extract as an insecticide.

Odewole, who made the call during an interview with newsmen in Ilorin, explained that plant extracts have shown significant promise as alternatives to synthetic insecticides.

“Plant extracts have shown significant promise as alternatives to synthetic insecticides.

“These extracts are environmentally sustainable, biodegradable, and leave no harmful residues in soil, water, or food.

“Plants such as ginger, sunflower, fish bean, African black pepper, cloves and citrus possess potent pesticidal properties and are readily available and cost-effective for smallholder farmers,” she said.

The expert observe that proper formulation of these extracts ensures their efficacy against pests while preserving beneficial organisms and the overall ecological balance.

She stated that farmers
often use a chemical insecticide
without adequate knowledge of their consequences.

She lamented that chemical insecticides are used on vegetables that are consumed daily by most consumers, such as cucumber, okra, cabbage, and amaranths.

“Some farmers rely on chemical insecticides because they do not have an alternative to insect pest infestation control.

“This indiscriminate usage has resulted in environmental pollution, food contamination, health risks for farmers and consumers, and the emergence of pesticide-resistant pests,” she said.

Odewole, who is also a postdoctoral researcher in the Management and conservation of Natural and Agrarian at the Federal University of Vicosa, Brazil, observed that the adverse effects are profound and multifaceted.

She said: “both farmers and consumers are exposed to chemical residues.

“This residue usually leads to health challenges such as skin disorders, respiratory illness, and long-term health complications.

“It also degrades ecosystems and harms beneficial organisms, including pollinators essential for crop production”.

Odewole warns that prolonged use of chemical insecticides can lead to resistance in pest populations, adding that this can force farmers to increase dosages, which perpetuates the cycle of dependence.

According to her, an experiment conducted on harvested cucumber fruits from different markets in the five local governments of Ogbomoso, showed high residue of chemical in some local government when compared with the European Union Maximum Residue Limits (EU MRLs) standard.

“The values indicate that the public is exposed to the health risks of pesticide residues through cucumber consumption in part of the study area,” she warns.

The Agric expert noted after petroleum, agriculture is the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economy, with vegetable farming serving as a critical source of livelihood for countless local farmers.

She, however, pointed out that unregulated and excessive use of chemical insecticides poses significant risks to the sector’s sustainability.

She, therefore, calls on policymakers to establish regulations that limit the overuse of chemical pesticides and incentivize sustainable methods.

Odewole also enjoined extension officers and agricultural organizations to provide farmers with training, resources, and technical support.

“Scientists must continue to research and validate innovative solutions and empower farmers with knowledge and tools for transforming pest control practices and achieving long-term agricultural sustainability.

“By adopting safer and more innovative pest management practices, we can protect human health, preserve the environment, and secure food safety,” she said.

Dr Adeola Odewole of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology

IGP Egbetokun visits family of man tortured to death by Police in Ilorin

The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has paid unscheduled visit to Ilorin, Kwara State over the death of a 35-year-old Jimoh Abdulquadri reportedly killed by the police.

Jimoh was said to have been tortured to death by some policemen at the commend on Saturday.

According to investigation, Jimoh of Balogun Fulani community in Erubu, reportedly died in police custody in questionable circumstances.

Addressing Balogun Fulani, the traditional ruler of the community, Egbetokun pleaded with the entire community especially the youths not to take law into their hands.

He hinted that he had directed a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of the youngster.

He assured that the matter would not be swept under, saying: “justice would be served.”

Lamenting the incident, the police chief recalled how Ilorin indigenes received him as the Commissioner of Police (CP) in 2020 but saddened that he had to visit the state in a sour mood.

According to him: “I am always very excited to visit Ilorin because when I was posted here in 2020, I was warmly received by the people who often prayed for me, your prayers then, still go with me, it is not an exaggeration that I claim Ilorin indigeneship.

“I am very saddened to be here today on condolence visit on the drath of Jimoh whose circumstances surrounding his death is very worrisome.

“Justice must be served, I have already directed investigation, I have given necessary directive to the CP here. We will get to the root of this case,” he assuaged the tensed mood.

He however cautioned the community against rushing into conclusion but to await the findings of the investigative committee that would be made public.

He said: “let us not jump in to conclusion. I have visited the command and I have directed thorough investigation.”

Egbetokun said the Police would support the family of the deceased, “we’re ready to support the family of the deceased. We know that no amount of support will ease their pains but we’re sure that our efforts will go a long way.

“I pray that no sad story will bring me to Kwara State again,” he said.

Various Speakers including the Balogun Fulani, youths and the Ilorin Decendants Union demanded justice for the death of Jimoh.

It was gathered that the deceased was arrested by the police operatives on December 19, 2024 for allegedly owing a fellow colleague at Olam farms in Offa, Peter, N220,000 while he reportedly died on December 20, 2024.

Jimoh, popularly called Van Da Sar’s mother, Mrs. Adijat Moriyike and elder brother, Ismail, explained that the deceased was tortured to death, urging concerned authorities to investigate the matter and arrest culprits for justice.

They alleged Police operatives of beating and breaking head of the deceased with hard object, with his nose oozing blood.

According to the deceased’s elder brother, he said that measures were already being taken to settle the N220,000 debt before the incident.

“My brother was said to be owing someone a sum of N220,000 and measures were being taken to settle the debt. He was arrested with his phone and N350,000 at about 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm he had died on December 20.

“We were called few hours after midnight of December 20 to come and bail him, when police said they don’t know what’s happening to my brother and that he’s been taken to hospital.

“By the time we got to the headquarters early in the morning we were told to meet them at General Hospital, Surulere, Ilorin.

“We saw at the mortuary that he was beaten to death with blood all over him. They said he hanged himself with cloth he was wearing inside cell.

“My brother is a tall person that couldn’t have killed himself inside police cell that they have.

“The person my late brother was owing money is an elder brother to a police man. The person instructed his younger brother to torture my brother.

“When we got to mortuary, we saw that his face was swollen, blood oozed from nose and bruises all over his body,” he narrated.

In its reaction, the police command, through the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, confirmed the development.

“The Kwara state Police Command is aware of an unfortunate incident that led to the tragic loss of one Mr. Jimoh Abdulquadri which occurred on December 20, 2024.

“The deceased was invited on an alleged case of obtaining money by false pretence to the sum of N220,000.

“Discrete Investigations into this incident has commenced to ascertain the cause. Further developments on the outcome will be communicated as it progresses as no stone will be left unturned”, she said.

Meanwhile, Emir Sulu-Gambari expressed sadness over the demise of Tunji Abdulqodir in police custody on Saturday saying

“This is rude shock and regrettable incidence, seeing a promising young man die in such a inhumane situation.

Alhaji Sulu-Gambari commiserates with the family members, friends and associates of the deceased and urged the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, probe into the circumstance that led to the demise of Tunji AbdulQodir.

He also advised authorities of relevant security agencies to ensure strict enforcement of professionalism and compliance to global ethical practices in their daily conducts with members of the society.

Unilorin Don recommends a ratio of one teacher to 35 students in Nigerian schools

Unilorin Don recommends a ratio of one teacher to 35 students in Nigerian schools

Prof. Hamdalat Yusuf, of the Department of Social Sciences Education of the University of Ilorin has recommended a ratio of one teacher to 35 students across Nigerian schools.

Yusuf made the call in Ilorin in her paper presentation at the 271st Inaugural Lecture of the University of Ilorin entitled: ” Navigating the Nexus of Teacher Education, Curriculum Development and Social Studies”.

The education expert examined how school factors of class size, teachers’ workload, and qualifications impacted performance in the examinations.

She said: “These schools and teachers’ variables were related to classroom teaching and the extent each of these variables impacted learners.

She disclosed that the results indicated these variables, including class size, teacher workload, and qualifications, influenced the performance of students in their examinations.

Similarly, Yusuf advised the Federal Government to integrate ICT training as part of the pre-service teacher education program in Nigeria.

According to her, such an initiative will prepare future teachers to effectively use technology in their classrooms.

She observed the need for teacher-education curricula to be designed to incorporate ICT tools and resources so that teachers can make them an integral part of the teaching and learning process.

“There is a need to provide schools with adequate ICT resources, including Internet facilities and digital resources so that teachers can integrate them into their instructions.

The don enjoined Lecturers should assume the role of counselor caring for the psychological and emotional needs of students enrolled in their courses.

Yusuf, who teaches in the Faculty of Education of the University, explained that such a practical role has been shown to help students improve poor grades in their courses.

She also underscores the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education, particularly in the development of teacher education and enhancing community development in sub-Saharan Africa.

Prof. Hamdalat Yusuf, University of Ilorin.

Kwara to capture Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDs under health insurance scheme–Mrs AbdulRazaq

The Kwara Governor’s wife, Ambassador Olufolake AbdulRasaq, has disclosed that the Kwara Government will soon caoture treatment of Tuberculosis and HIV under the State Health Insurance Scheme.

AbdulRasaq stated this in Ilorin during the Investiture Ceremony of Local Government Chiarlady and Spouses of Local Government Chairmen as Local Government TB Champions.

The programme also include the Official Handing oOver of the Global FundDonated Motorcycles, Hilux Vehicles and Portable Digit X-rays.

She observed that Tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria and around the world.

According to her, many people who have this disease do not know and may only get to know when severe complications set in.

Abdulrazaq underscores the need for increased awareness, sensitization, and advocacy, particularly at the grassroots levels.

She explained that the Kwara government through her advocacy efforts had increased the budgetary allocation for the health sector, especially for TB programme.

“Additionally, through the Ajike People Support Centre, we have been able to increase sensitization on TB for the people of Kwara, so that affected persons can get free testing and free drug treatment,” she said.

The Kwara first lady congratulated the LG Chairmen wives appointed as TB Champions, and enjoined them to serve as advocates on prevention of spread of the disease in their community.

She also advised them to allow their voices resonate in their local government as they spread awareness about the prevention, treatment, and importance of early detection of tuberculosis

Earlier in her welcome address, the Kwara Commissioner for Health, Dr Amina El-Imam explained that the provision of the vehicles and motorcycles is a game-changer in the government’s fight against tuberculosis.

She emphasized that the resources would enhance government’s ability to reach out to underserved communities.

El-Imam also commended developmental partners for their various roles, while calling for synergy among stakeholders in order to combat Tuberculosis.

Mrs AbdulRazaq of Kwara state disclose government plan to include Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS under health insurance scheme

Kwara Govt. opens Unity Road for yuletide

Kwara State Government has announced that the road component of the Murtala Muhammed Unity Bridge project will be open for public use, starting December 21, 2024.

Hon. Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, disclosed this during an inspection of the project in Ilorin.

While expressing satisfaction with the progress on the job, he confirmed that the bridge itself would remain closed for now.

Olododo, meanwhile, cautioned against encroachment on the walkways and government setbacks, saying violations will attract penalties going forward.

He also urged citizens to take ownership of public infrastructure and ensure proper maintenance.

The Commissioner was accompanied on the inspection by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, and the Special Assistant on Infrastructure, Engr. Ladi Yusuf.

The Commissioner called on residents of the state to continue to support the Governor’s vision of a better Kwara.

Kwara Governor presents 2025 Appropriation Bill of N540.3bn to Kwara Assembly.

Kwara Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has presented the state’s 2025 Appropriation Bill of N540, 369,119,765bn to the State House of Assembly.

While presenting the budget on the floor of the Hallowed Chamber on Friday in Ilorin, Gov. AbdulRazaq said 62. 1 percent was allocated for Capital Expenditure while 37.9 percent was allocated for Recurrent Expenditure.

He said the 2025 budget is predicated on projected oil prices of 75 dollars per barrel, daily oil production of 2.06 million barrels and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 6.4 percent.

”The funding sources include FAAC receipts which constitutes 48.1 percent Internally Generated Revenue, contributing 17.8 percent, an opening balance of N62 billion or 11.5 percent and other capital receipts, accounting for 22.6 percent.

”The budget for economic stability and sustained prosperity, prioritises the completion of ongoing projects, such as the Ilorin International Conference Centre, Innovation Hub, Patigi Motel, Kwara Hotel and several other roads across the state,” Gov. AbdulRazaq said.

While recalling the impact of the 2024 budget, the governor said the 2024 budget of expansion and prosperity brought significant benefits to various sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, education and social protection.

He added that as the year recorded unprecedented investments in physical infrastructure and social welfare, his administration reduced the state’s debt burden to N55.87 billion in the 3rd quarter from N109.16 billion in Dec. 2023.

While reacting to the Bill presentation, Speaker Yakubu Danladi-Salihu assured the governor of the legislators’ readiness to work round the clock to ensure its timely passage for the growth and development of Kwara and in overall interest of Kwara residents.

”On our part as legislators, my colleagues and I will immediately swing into action by looking at the document critically and meticulously.

”This is as we begin to interface with Heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies at defence sessions that will be underway shortly,” he said.

The speaker added that the presentation was registered as the Bill’s First Reading and thereafter referred it to the House Committe on Rules and Business to make necessary preparations for its Second Reading.