The Kwara State Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Technology has been pivotal in driving the state’s economic growth and development under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration.
In a press statement, the Ministry’s Press Secretary, Taibat Baba Adams, conveyed that the Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, Damilola Adelodun, made this known during the second quarterly Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing organized by the Ministry of Communications, held last week at the Ministry of Finance’s conference room.
According to Adelodun, the Ministry has been a leader in promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology across Kwara State.
Adelodun added that the Ministry’s core responsibilities include supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), advancing digital transformation, and implementing programs to stimulate economic development.
The Commissioner said through these initiatives, the Ministry strives to create a business-friendly environment, enhance access to funding, and foster sustainable economic growth across the state’s Local Government Areas.
Adelodun added that one of the Ministry’s flagship projects, the Ilorin Innovation Centre, is set to open in 2025, noting that the centre will serve as a technological hub, generating 10,000 job opportunities for youths and functioning as a key facility for technological development in the state.
The Commissioner emphasised that this initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRazaq’s vision to transform Kwara into a technological powerhouse, with the centre focusing on both career development and entrepreneurship for the state’s youth.
Adelodun further disclosed that the Ministry, in collaboration with Kwara State University, has initiated the conversion of gasoline vehicles to electric vehicles.
According to the Commissioner, a pilot project has already converted a bus, which is currently undergoing testing before its official handover to the government.
She noted that this effort is part of a broader vision to reduce carbon emissions and embrace green energy, noting that more buses are expected to be converted by year-end, positioning Kwara as a frontrunner in sustainable transportation solutions, and paving the way for further investment in the electric vehicle industry.
Additionally, the Commissioner highlighted the progress of the Kwara Garment Factory, which has started producing a diverse range of clothing, including military uniforms and school wear.
“ Over 300 locals have been employed, with plans for further recruitment. This factory, like other initiatives, is advancing job creation and boosting local entrepreneurship.”
Adelodun also noted the success of the Kwara Sugar Film Factory, which has created 100 direct jobs and 500 indirect jobs, noting that the factory is set to host the 2024 Best of Nollywood Awards, further cementing its role in promoting local entrepreneurship and attracting investment.
The Commissioner outlined six ongoing projects under the Ministry’s supervision, including the Ilorin International Conference Centre, a Shea Butter Factory in Kaiama, the remodelling of the Kwara Hotel, and the construction of modern facilities such as the ICT Hub in Shonga. These projects are expected to enhance the state’s commercial and industrial landscape, attract investment, and elevate the standard of living for its residents.
