Kwara State Innovation Ministry Crucial to State’s Economic Growth – Commissioner

The Kwara State Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, has stated that the ministry has been instrumental in fostering the economic growth and development of the state.

Adelodun made this known during the 2nd quarterly Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing, organized by the Ministry of Communications, at the Ministry of Finance’s conference room.

The Commissioner disclosed that the ministry has been at the forefront of promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology in the state.

According to her, the ministry’s key responsibilities include supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), advancing digital transformation, and creating programs to stimulate economic development.

She added that through its initiatives, the ministry aims to create a business-friendly environment, provide access to funding, and drive sustainable economic growth across its Local Government Areas.

The Commissioner noted that one of the ministry’s landmark projects is the Ilorin Innovation Centre, which is set to open in 2025. She added that once operational, this ICT hub is expected to create 10,000 job opportunities for youths and serve as a central facility for technological development across the state.

She pointed out that this initiative aligns with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s vision of transforming Kwara into a technological powerhouse, stating that the centre will not only focus on career development in the technology sector but also act as a catalyst for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young people.

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Damilola also revealed that, in collaboration with Kwara State University, the ministry has embarked on the conversion of gasoline vehicles to electric vehicles. She disclosed that this pilot project has successfully converted a bus, which is currently undergoing testing before its official handover to the government.

As part of the broader vision to reduce carbon emissions and embrace green energy, the Commissioner announced that additional buses are expected to be converted by the end of the year. She emphasized that this initiative positions Kwara as a leader in adopting sustainable transportation solutions, opening doors to further investments in the electric vehicle industry.

Damilola mentioned that the Kwara Garment Factory is another significant achievement under the ministry’s purview, which has commenced the manufacturing of a wide range of clothing, from military uniforms to school uniforms. She highlighted that over 300 locals have already been employed, with additional recruitment planned soon.

The Commissioner also affirmed that the Kwara Sugar Film Factory has generated 100 direct and 500 indirect jobs and is set to host the 2024 Best of Nollywood Awards. She reiterated that these industrial ventures are not only driving job creation but also promoting local entrepreneurship and investment.

Damilola highlighted six ongoing projects that the ministry is overseeing, including the Ilorin International Conference Centre, Shea Butter Factory in Kaiama, the remodelling of Kwara Hotel, and the construction of modern facilities like the ICT Hub in Shonga, among others. She noted that these projects are expected to enhance the state’s commercial and industrial landscape, attract investments, and improve the standard of living.