Ilorin, Nigeria – Engr. Femi Sanni (Araba) has advocated a bold economic repositioning for Kwara State, calling for a deliberate transition from a predominantly civil service-driven structure to a dynamic conference and business tourism destination.
Speaking after his arrival into the country from the UK where he attended Nigerian-UK business conference put together as part of events attending President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the country, Engr. Sanni said that emerging indicators already point to the viability of this transformation.
He cited the growing frequency of same-day return flights between Lagos and Ilorin by some airlines as clear evidence of increasing business traffic and the state’s rising relevance as a meeting point for commerce and engagement.
According to him, ongoing investments in critical infrastructure under Governor Abdukrahaman Abdulrazaq further strengthen Kwara’s readiness for this shift.
He referenced the simultaneous development of two conference centres alongside a five-star hotel, describing the projects as strategic steps toward creating a functional “downtown” ecosystem capable of hosting large-scale national and international events.
“This is not just an opportunity; it is a strategic imperative. Kwara State has the foundational assets to become a preferred hub for conferences, exhibitions, and corporate engagements in Nigeria,” he stated.
Engr. Sanni noted that such a transition would significantly diversify the state’s economy, stimulate job creation, and enhance internally generated revenue. He added that, as a sub-national entity, Kwara stands to strengthen its contribution to Nigeria’s overall development, thereby justifying ongoing federal investments and support.
He also emphasized the critical role of security in sustaining this vision, stressing that the integration of effective state policing mechanisms would help guarantee safety, drastically reduce insecurity, and inspire investor confidence.
“This is the kind of forward looking plans the state needs at this critical transitional moment, to build on Governor Abdulrazaq’s on going transformation,” he added.