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The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has called on journalists to use their pens to promote peace and unity in the state and across Nigeria.
The Emir, who was represented by his Spokesman, Dr Abdulazeez Arowona made the call during the 2026 Correspondent Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Week held on Thursday.
Sulu-Gambari rejoiced with the Chapel on their annual celebration and wished them a more joyful celebration on earth.
The Chairman, Kwara Traditional Rulers Council appreciates the journalists for their quick response in publishing his press statements and event coverage.
I have enjoyed good relationship with the media since 1993 I became an Emir, noting: “you people always reported the palace in a positive manner, i say a very big thank you. You have made the palace the most reported in the country.”
He advised other chapels to emulate the Correspondents Chapel in orderliness, peace, unity and progress that is making the state more meaningful and interesting.
The Emir appealed to the chapel to continue with their professional work of writing objective and factual news.
Earlier in her keynote address, the state Commissioner for Livestock Development, Hon. Oloruntoyosi Thomas, said the State Government under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has unveiled ambitious plans to position the state as a major player in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding livestock economy projected to grow from an estimated $32 billion to over $70 billion in the coming years.
“Livestock Development in a Changing Economy: Innovation, Opportunities and the Role of Strategic Communication in National Growth,” Thomas described livestock as one of the most promising sectors capable of driving economic transformation, industrialization and job creation in Nigeria.
“This administration is deliberately moving beyond subsistence animal production into a fully commercialized and industrialized livestock economy through strategic investments and policy interventions.
“The government’s goals include improving productivity, strengthening livestock value chains, encouraging private investment, reducing imports and positioning Nigeria competitively in the global livestock market.
Thomas explained that the state is leveraging projects such as the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (LPRES) and the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ) to drive commercialization.
“SAPZ initiative would provide critical infrastructure including roads, power, cold storage facilities, abattoirs, veterinary clinics, artificial insemination centres, cargo facilities and residential accommodation for investors and processors.
“This is not accidental. It reflects leadership, foresight and a clear understanding that the future of Nigeria’s economy lies in productive sectors capable of generating sustainable wealth and employment,” she said.
Also in his goodwill message, the Principal Consultant of Synergy Impact Consultants Ltd, Otunba David Babalola, said “Today, I stand before you not just as a guest, but as a grateful witness,” he said. “For years, Synergy Impact Consultants Ltd has walked this road of growth, and at every milestone, your voices have been our echo across Nigeria.”
He praised the media for amplifying the work of the consultancy firm beyond Kwara State, noting that journalists had helped turn training engagements into wider national discussions.
“You are the storytellers who turned our training rooms into national conversations, who gave wings to our vision and carried it to boardrooms, classrooms, and communities far beyond Kwara,” he added.
Earlier in his address the Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Biola Azeez commended the members for their professionalism said the journalists believes in constructive writing and ensure fairness, adding that the younger journalists should work hard and protect their credibility.
The chairman also called on members of the chapel to continue to show support, loyalty and commitment toward the progress of the union.
The annual press week was a two-day event: aerobic and Table tennis competitions, then a Grand finale, with lectures and posthumous award presentations.
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