Kwara Governor Pledges Improved Inclusion as 2026 Citizens’ Budget Engagements Conclude in Kwara South

The Kwara State Government concluded the 2026 citizens’ budget engagements for Kwara South on Thursday in Ilemona, Oyun Local Government, providing residents a platform to articulate their developmental needs for the upcoming fiscal year.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff, Princess Olubukola Babalola, emphasized that the engagements were designed to ensure a budget that truly reflects community priorities.

The citizens’ engagement follows similar consultations in Kwara North and Central, held in Bode Saadu and Ilorin, respectively. AbdulRazaq highlighted the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, job creation, agriculture, and education, stressing that such progress has been driven by feedback from previous citizen engagements.

He said, “For a budget to be effective, it must reflect the true needs and aspirations of the people. That is why your participation here today is crucial. Planning for the people without the people is planning to fail.”

Deputy Speaker Hon. Oyebode commended the Governor’s commitment to road infrastructure, particularly in the southern senatorial district. Citing projects such as the ongoing Afon-Ojoku-Offa-Odo Otin road, he also requested the construction of the Ipee-Bayagan-Egudu-Oyate-Agbamu route in Irepodun LGA to ease agricultural transportation.

Commissioner for Planning and Economic Development, Dr. Mary Arinde, described the engagements as moving “beyond numbers on spreadsheets to truly understanding what matters most to the people,” while Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, refuted claims of infrastructural neglect in Kwara South, listing numerous ongoing and planned road projects.

Similarly, Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Segun Ogunsola, noted that at least 1,600 housing units have been facilitated through the Federal Ministry of Housing, with 600 earmarked for Kwara Southerners. He also announced the imminent commencement of construction at Offa Stadium to encourage youth sports, alongside the awarded contract for Lafiagi Stadium.

Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Bosede Olaitan Buraimoh, highlighted women- and youth-focused empowerment initiatives as evidence of the Governor’s citizen-centric approach. Local government chairmen and traditional rulers, including the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail Yahaya Alebiosu, commended the administration’s performance and expressed unwavering support for the government’s policies.

The engagement provided a platform for community members to present requests ranging from roads and security improvements to solar-powered facilities and school renovations, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.