The First Lady of Kwara State, Olufolake AbdulRazaq, has commended her husband, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his contributions to the development of the state, describing his new traditional role as a call to further service.
She spoke at the turbaning ceremony of Governor AbdulRazaq as the Sardauna of Ilorin Emirate, held at the Atlantic Event Centre, Ilorin, Kwara State Capital.
The First Lady expressed appreciation to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, and the entire Ilorin Emirate for conferring the honour on the governor.
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She said the title reflected the enduring relationship between traditional institutions, the people and leaders entrusted with the responsibility of serving them.
According to her, the strength of the Ilorin Emirate has historically been anchored on values of unity, discipline, faith, service, courage and communal responsibility.
AbdulRazaq said her husband had demonstrated these values through his contributions to the development of Kwara, particularly in institution-building, youth development, women empowerment and support for vulnerable groups.
“Abdulrahman did not give pittance, rather he built institutions; he connected our youths to a brighter enviable future, he charted ambitious course for women empowerment and inclusion in all facets,” she said.
She also highlighted infrastructure and development initiatives under the administration, including modern roads, technology innovations, healthcare facilities, educational institutions and smart-city projects, which she said were aimed at advancing the industrialisation of the state.
The First Lady, who said she had known the governor for about 40 years, described him as a man of few but honourable words who had contributed to national development even before becoming a public office holder.
She said his approach to leadership had been characterised by what she described as quiet strength, strategic thinking and a commitment to lasting impact.
Prof. AbdulRazaq urged the governor to bring the same qualities to his new traditional responsibility, particularly in protecting the peace, unity and interests of the Ilorin Emirate.
She prayed for wisdom, strength, prosperity and long life for the governor in his service to the Emirate, Kwara State, Nigeria and humanity.
The First Lady further thanked the Emir of Ilorin and members of the Emirate for the honour, expressing confidence that Governor AbdulRazaq would carry the Sardauna title with grace, humility and a strong sense of responsibility.
