Published Feb. 06, 2025
By Rafiu Ajakaye
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, the Sardauna of Ilorin, has a unique approach to leadership that sets him apart in the political landscape of Kwara State. One key characteristic is his preference for operating behind the scenes, avoiding the fanfare and praise that often accompany political leadership. This is not a result of arrogance but rather a deliberate choice to stay focused on his duties without the distractions of sycophantic praise and unnecessary attention.
Abdulrazaq’s approach to governance is often misunderstood, but he is at peace with it. He believes in addressing the needs of the people without being swayed by external validation. His aversion to lavish celebrations, particularly on his birthday, stems from his belief that such accolades are fleeting and, in his view, unnecessary. While some might see this as a reluctance to celebrate accomplishments, I find it aligned with his desire to leave behind tangible legacies that speak for themselves.
Edward Said once said, “Nations themselves are narrations. The power to narrate, or block other narratives from forming and emerging, is very important to culture.” This is a sentiment that captures the essence of Abdulrazaq’s leadership. As he recently turned 65, there is much to document about his tenure as the seventh democratic Governor of Kwara State. His time in office has been marked by unprecedented development and modernization in Ilorin, alongside significant investments in rural infrastructure, youth and women empowerment, and economic growth that have put the state on a path to greater productivity.
Beyond the physical infrastructure, his leadership style has brought about profound psychological shifts. His decision to curtail the everyday gatherings in Government House—a stark departure from the norms of previous administrations—sends a clear message: the time for idle politics is over. In its place, he encourages a focus on work, productivity, and personal dignity. This shift has not been without its critics, but those who understand the long-term vision see it as a necessary change for a state that needs to move beyond political idleness.
Abdulrazaq’s nostalgia for Ilorin’s past is evident in his urban renewal efforts. He has worked to restore the sanity of the GRA (Government Reserved Area) and surrounding neighborhoods, eliminating the disruptive noise from discos and loud parties that were once a health concern for the local residents. He has also championed the restoration of the Kwara Hotel, as part of his broader vision to improve land use and public health, ensuring that leisure spaces are separate from residential areas. These initiatives reflect his deep understanding of the balance between modernization and quality of life for the people.
Despite his many reforms, there are detractors, as there always are with any leader who challenges the status quo. Yet Abdulrazaq’s steadfastness in his convictions, combined with the growing support from the people of Kwara, has largely overshadowed the criticisms from his political opponents. His leadership transcends party lines, resonating with the people’s desire for meaningful progress.
Abdulrazaq is a leader shaped by the intersection of history, current realities, and the unique potential of Kwara’s people. His policies, from the rejuvenation of local industries like Okin Biscuits and the Jebba Paper Mills to the creation of shea butter processing factories in Kaiama and Baruten, are designed to capitalize on the state’s geographic and cultural advantages. His commitment to rural development is evident in the delivery of key projects such as the new campuses of Kwara State University and the ongoing efforts to revive Patigi Motel and the Kampe National Park. These are part of his broader vision to curb rural-urban migration and ensure that every part of the state benefits from development.
The governor’s investment in education has been a standout achievement. Since taking office, he has employed over 8,600 teachers— the highest number since 1999—and launched KwaraLEARN, an initiative designed to improve literacy, numeracy, and learning outcomes for the state’s children. These strides in education are complemented by his infrastructure projects, such as the revival of Offa and Lafiagi Stadia and the development of the Shonga ICT Centre.
Abdulrazaq’s vision for Kwara includes a smart city in Ilorin, a forward-thinking project that aims to ensure sustainable urban development in the face of rapid population growth. His focus on proper land use, coupled with investments in cultural and tourism infrastructures such as the visual arts center and the Owu Waterfall road, reflects his belief in a holistic approach to development.
His legacy is one that future leaders will be fortunate to inherit. Abdulrazaq’s successes have established a strong foundation for his successor to build upon, allowing them to move faster and address issues more effectively. However, this will only be possible if the next governor understands the delicate balance between political realities and the needs of the people.
Abdulrazaq’s steady, consensus-building approach to national issues further highlights his leadership qualities. Whether on tax policy, the removal of fuel subsidies, or other critical matters, he has consistently demonstrated caution and strategic humility, favoring dialogue over grandstanding. This measured approach to governance, paired with his unwavering commitment to his state and nation, solidifies his standing as a true leader.
As Kwara moves forward, Abdulrazaq’s work will be remembered not for the praise he sought but for the concrete changes he has made to the state’s fabric—changes that will endure for generations to come.
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