In a historic event that set Kwara State apart from other states in Nigeria, President Emmanuel Macron’s presidential jet landed at the Ilorin International Airport last Tuesday for the gubernatorial inauguration. This marked the first time a foreign government aircraft, particularly from a world power, had ever landed in Ilorin, highlighting Kwara’s significance on the international stage.
While presidential delegations from other countries gathered in Abuja for President Bola Tinubu’s inauguration, the exceptional performance of Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq during his first term had attracted the attention of the French government. Consequently, a high-powered delegation from France arrived in Kwara to sign agreements with the state government, aiming to enhance development in the region.
Unlike other states where governors were still basking in the euphoria of their inaugurations, Governor Abdulrazaq wasted no time in getting to work for the betterment of Kwara. In contrast to the lavish and extravagant project inaugurations seen in other states, Abdulrazaq believes in putting taxpayers’ money to practical use without unnecessary pomp and ceremony. This approach has gained him praise from many, including Engineer Bamidele Adeyemi, an educationist and industrialist in Ilorin, who commended the governor for his prudent management of state resources.
The inauguration ceremony itself was a modest affair, held within the Government House Council Chamber, accommodating only about 200 people. In contrast, the inaugural dinner was also understated, with a small number of attendees. Governor Abdulrazaq’s focus on substance over showmanship is a testament to his dedication to delivering results and his commitment to the people of Kwara.
During the visit, Governor Abdulrazaq signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on behalf of the state government, while the French Minister of State for Development, Francophonie, and International Partnerships, Dr. Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, represented the French side. The French Ambassador to Nigeria, MS Emmanuelle Blantmann, and the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs. Samuela Isopi, also accompanied the delegation.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Governor Abdulrazaq described the visit as a game-changer, emphasizing that it signifies Kwara State’s openness to global opportunities. He highlighted the alignment of his administration’s goals with the ideals of French President Emmanuel Macron, particularly in youth and gender engagement, education development, technology, commercial agriculture, and sustainable development goals (SDGs). The governor emphasized his commitment to fostering innovation in agriculture, improving the welfare of farmers, and ensuring food security.
Dr. Zacharopoulou, impressed by Kwara’s achievements, lauded the state as a hub of human capital development. She praised Governor Abdulrazaq’s initiatives in education, youth empowerment, and gender inclusion policy. She also expressed her appreciation for the Kwara State Agricultural Transformation Plan, recognizing its potential to drive development in the state.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by several officials, including Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, French Ambassador to Nigeria Mrs. Emmanuelle Blatmann, EU Ambassador Samuela Isopi, House of Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Yakubu Danladi Salihu, and many lawmakers-elect, among others.
Following the signing, the French delegation toured various project sites in Ilorin, including the Dolby Studio-fitted Ilorin Visual Arts Centre, an initiative by Governor Abdulrazaq to promote the creative industry using cutting-edge technology. They also visited the Innovation Hub and the Agricultural and Rural Management Training Institute (ARMTI) in Ilorin.
The visit by the French delegation and the subsequent agreements signed with the Kwara State government mark a significant milestone in Kwara’s pursuit of development and international collaboration. The partnership with France opens doors for increased investments, knowledge exchange, and further advancements in various sectors.
One of the key projects highlighted during the visit was the modernization of the Lata Grazing Reserve, which has the potential to address conflicts between farmers and herdsmen, enhance food security, and boost livestock production. The French Development Agency, known for its expertise in rural infrastructure, expressed its commitment to supporting Kwara State in this endeavor. The collaboration aims to improve milk and meat production, livestock productivity, and the quality and quantity of animal feeds and water.
Additionally, the visit emphasized the importance of language and cultural exchange. French Minister Dr. Chrysoula Zacharopoulou highlighted French as a language of opportunities, fostering economic growth, diplomacy, and cultural understanding. The partnership between Kwara State and France aims to strengthen ties and facilitate dialogue between nations. The promotion of French language education in Kwara opens up avenues for Nigerians to access better job prospects and social mobility, while also creating opportunities for collaboration and peace-building efforts.
The French delegation’s tour of Kwara’s innovation hub and agricultural training institute showcased the state’s commitment to equipping its youth with the necessary skills for a prosperous future. These initiatives align with Governor Abdulrazaq’s focus on human capital development and the empowerment of young people. By providing cutting-edge technology and training opportunities, Kwara State is nurturing a generation capable of driving innovation and contributing to the state’s overall development.
The successful visit and signing of agreements between Kwara State and the French government have put the state on the global map as a promising investment destination. The collaboration holds great potential for boosting economic growth, improving livelihoods, and fostering sustainable development in Kwara. Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s pragmatic approach and dedication to delivering tangible results have been widely praised, positioning him as a transformative leader focused on the prosperity and well-being of the people of Kwara State.
As the partnership between Kwara State and France unfolds, it is expected to bring about positive change, create employment opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Kwara. The visit of the French delegation marks a significant milestone in the state’s journey toward progress, development, and global engagement. With doors now open to international collaboration and investment, Kwara State is poised to achieve new heights of prosperity and become a model for other states in Nigeria.
