Date: 2018-04-20

This is contained in a statement by the Editor of the book, Dr Abdulwaheed Musa and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Ilorin.

Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki and Kwara Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, are among eminent Nigerians expected to grace the presentation and launch of a book in commemoration of Kwara's 50th anniversary.

This is contained in a statement by the Editor of the book, Dr Abdulwaheed Musa and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Ilorin.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the book is entitled: "Kwara at Fifty: Achievements and Aspirations".

According to him, the book launch will hold on Tuesday, April 24, at the Banquet Hall, opposite Government House, Ilorin by 11am.

The Vice-Chancellor, Kwara State University, Prof. Abdulrasheed Na'allah, would be the special host of the occasion according to the statement.

Musa said that the book would be reviewed by Prof. Kamil Kamaldeen, who is the Country Director, United Nations Development Programme, South Sudan.

Other reviewers are: Prof. Halidu Abubakar; Retired Professor of Economic and Emir of Ilesha Baruba and Mr Segun Adeniyi; former Editor, ThisDay Newspaper and former spokesperson to late President Umaru Musa Yar'adua.

The forward of the book was written by Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, Chancellor, Kwara State University.

According to the editor, "Kwara at Fifty: Achievements and Aspirations" is a book that examines the achievements of the state over the last 50 years.

It also looks towards its aspirations with topics ranging from governance and administration, civil service, legislation and legal profession, investment and economic development, education and health service delivery to sports and youth development in the State.

He added that the book strikes a balance between honest self-appraisal of weaknesses and appreciation of strengths. Musa said: "It is difficult not to be impressed by some of the achievements that have been made.

"Kwara of 2017 does not bear any semblance with Kwara of 1967. "Kwarans have made indelible marks in government, sports, law, business, education and entertainment, and are proud of their state and the modest achievements since its creation especially in peace and security, education, aviation and agriculture."

The book contains 15 chapters written by notable Kwarans, including accomplished scholars, entrepreneurs, diplomats and experts in various fields.