Inter-Ministerial briefing: Kwara secures over $85m in World Bank grants, acknowledged as top performer in NG-CARES programme – Commissioner

The Kwara State Government has achieved a significant milestone with the recent announcement from the World Bank, confirming that the state has secured over $85 million in performance-based grants through the 4th Independent Verification Assessment (IVA) of the Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme, the Commissioner for Finance Dr Hauwa Nuru has said.

This positions Kwara as one of the leading performers in the nation.

Dr Nuru, while disclosing this during the first quarter 2025 Inter-Ministerial Press Briefing held in Ilorin, disclosed that the recent development has put Kwara as one of the leading performers in the nation.

She attributed the success to the unwavering commitment of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, whose exceptional leadership has been vital in steering the effective implementation of the NG-CARES Programme.

Dr. Nuru emphasized, “Our administration is dedicated to improving the livelihoods of our citizens, particularly the poor and vulnerable, which has been pivotal in achieving this remarkable feat.”

Since its commencement in 2021, the NG-CARES Programme has been focused on providing support to indigents, vulnerable groups, and businesses adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the efforts of the government across the 16 Local Government Areas, essential goods and services have been delivered, benefiting the most vulnerable and supporting small and micro-scale enterprises (SMEs).

The Commissioner also highlighted the ongoing registration exercise with the Kwara State Residents Registration Agency (KWSRRA) for all pensioners and state and local government employees.

Dr. Nuru stated, “This initiative is vital for maintaining the prompt and uninterrupted payment of monthly pensions and salaries.”

Additionally, she reported a significant 16% increase in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, a growth which she attributes to robust investment strategies and comprehensive tax reforms.

With a focus on improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability, the state has adopted advanced reforms such as the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).

Dr. Nuru also mentioned efforts to enhance the ease of doing business, stating that the government is committed to streamlining processes and prioritizing access to credit for a stable business ecosystem.

In conclusion, she reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustaining these achievements and ensuring that every naira is judiciously utilized for the benefit of all Kwarans.