By Isiaka Babatunde

The Kwara State government will this month commence the construction of Kaiama/Kishi road project projected to gulp N8bn.
The state governor, Alhaji AbdulFatah Ahmed, disclosed this yesterday while speaking at the monthly “Governor Explains” programme held at Mandate Hall of Radio Kwara, G.R.A., Ilorin.
He also disclosed that government has earmarked N1.8billion for the construction of the Aran Orin-Rore-Ipetu road in Irepodun Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Ahmed stated that the Kisi-Kaiama project has been divided into three phases and pledged that his government would commence the first phase from Kaiama axis before the end of this month (April).
According to him, though the road is a Federal Government Project, “my administration will jump-start the project while expecting the Federal Government to reimburse the state government”.
Ahmed explained that his administration could not wait till the tail end of its tenure before embarking on that project, considering the pains and stresses people go through on the road.
He added that the project when completed will open up more opportunities for Kwarans especially in the areas of socio-economic development.
Speaking on the intention of his government to embark on new projects, the number one citizen of the state revealed that plans were on top gear to commence aggressive project execution on roads, health, schools, power and other infrastructures.
“We are looking for other ways to develop the state. More projects are coming on board, we have plans for new projects and we well ensure that those projects are given to the right people.”
The Governor disclosed the over 200 classrooms have been earmarked for renovation very soon with provision of modern laboratories, equipment and other infrastructures needed in the school.
He added that arrangement had been concluded by his government to chose three basic schools in the state and transform them to mega schools through provision of up-to-date equipment that will enable them to compete favourably with schools anywhere in the country and beyond.
Answering a question on abolition of street begging in the state, Governor Ahmed explained that the infiltration of beggars from other states where they were evacuated like Lagos State has brought insanity to the state, adding that the government was trying to create a skill acquisition center where these people will be empowered.
“Society has to be organized, if not there will be no development. The law of the state encourages rehabilitation and discourages street begging,” Governor Ahmed added.
Speaking on the ongoing demolition of illegal buildings along road setbacks in the state, the governor said it is not right for people to take what government set aside for road set back.
“We are not stopping people from doing their businesses. Anybody is free as Nigerian to pursue legitimate means of livelihood but you must not contravene the law of the land,” he said.
Speaking on the call for amnesty for the Boko Haram as a solution to stem the tide of the insurgence, Governor Ahmed stated that amnesty is realistic only if the aggrieved people are ready to uncover their faces, table their grievances and give room for dialogue.
Reacting to a question on government effort in water supply, Governor Ahmed disclosed that his government has set aside N10m every month for the sinking of boreholes across the state and attributed the ability of his government to think outside the box to some of the success stories being recorded in the state.