Her Excellency Ambassador Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq, the First Lady of Kwara State, is widely recognized as a transformative figure whose leadership transcends ceremonial roles. As the founder of the Ajike People Support Centre and Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum, she has built a legacy rooted in empowering marginalized groups, advancing gender equality, and fostering sustainable development both within Kwara State and across Nigeria.
Empowering Women, Youth, and Vulnerable Groups Through Skills Acquisition and Economic Empowerment
At the heart of Ambassador Abdulrazaq’s social interventions is the Ajike People Support Centre, a pioneering institution dedicated to equipping indigent women, youth, and school leavers with practical, market-driven skills. The Centre offers extensive training programs in diverse vocations, including tailoring, makeup artistry, bead and wire craftwork, and confectionery production—skills carefully selected to align with emerging market trends and economic opportunities.
Beneficiaries receive not only hands-on training but also essential work tools such as sewing machines, modern ovens, makeup kits, and craft materials. This comprehensive support enables them to transition from trainees to entrepreneurs, fostering self-sufficiency and economic resilience.
Recognizing that entrepreneurship requires sound financial management, the Centre partners with reputable financial institutions to provide financial literacy training. These sessions cover budgeting, savings, investment, and business planning, empowering participants to manage their finances prudently, scale their ventures, and contribute meaningfully to their households and the state economy.
This inclusive empowerment model actively targets young school leavers and marginalized women and youth, providing seed grants and ongoing business support to nurture sustainable micro-enterprises. The ripple effect of this initiative is evident in the growing number of beneficiaries who have become role models and economic contributors in their communities.
Agricultural Empowerment and Technological Advancement for Food Security
Understanding the critical role of agriculture in Kwara State’s socioeconomic fabric, Ambassador Abdulrazaq has prioritized agricultural empowerment through the provision of farm inputs, implements, and access to modern agricultural technologies. Women and youth farmers supported by the Ajike People Support Centre receive training on innovative farming techniques and technology adoption, enabling them to increase productivity, optimize resource use, and improve crop yields.
This initiative not only enhances food security but also promotes sustainable agricultural practices, empowering beneficiaries to generate stable incomes and improve their quality of life.
Leading the Charge Against Gender-Based Violence and Promoting Women’s Safety
As Chairperson of the Kwara State Committee on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), Ambassador Abdulrazaq has been a tireless advocate for the protection of women and girls. Under her leadership, the state has established Sexual Assault Referral Centers (SARCs) at key health facilities such as Sobi Specialist Hospital, Children’s Hospital Akerebiata, and Kwara State Teaching Hospital Ilorin. These centers provide comprehensive, survivor-centered care—including medical treatment, counseling, and legal support—setting a new standard for addressing SGBV in the region.
Beyond institutional frameworks, she has spearheaded community outreach programs aimed at raising awareness, dismantling harmful cultural norms, and fostering a culture of zero tolerance for violence against women. Her multi-sectoral approach involves collaboration with law enforcement, healthcare providers, civil society, and traditional leaders to create a holistic and sustainable response to SGBV.
Advancing Public Health and Well-being
Ambassador Abdulrazaq’s commitment to public health is evident in her active participation on the Kwara State Health Committee, where she champions initiatives targeting prevalent health challenges. She has led campaigns on malaria prevention, tuberculosis control, HIV/AIDS awareness, improved nutrition, and routine immunization, contributing to enhanced health outcomes and increased community health literacy.
Her advocacy also extends to often overlooked areas such as menstrual hygiene management, mental health awareness, cancer prevention, and HPV vaccination. By addressing these critical issues, she promotes holistic well-being and reduces health disparities among vulnerable populations.
Championing Education and the Empowerment of the Girl Child
Education remains a cornerstone of Ambassador Abdulrazaq’s vision for Kwara State. Through scholarships and material support programs, she has enabled numerous underprivileged students to access quality education. Her initiatives include the distribution of school supplies—bags, sandals, stationery, and writing materials—targeted especially at the girl child, to break down barriers to education and promote gender parity.
Her advocacy aligns with national and global development goals, emphasizing the transformative power of education in fostering social mobility and economic empowerment.
National Influence as Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum
Beyond state borders, Ambassador Abdulrazaq’s leadership as Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum amplifies her impact on social development nationwide. Under her stewardship, the Forum has intensified coordinated efforts to address pressing social issues such as drug abuse eradication, female genital mutilation (FGM) elimination, mental health awareness, child protection, and gender inclusion.
She has fostered collaboration among governors’ spouses, enabling the Forum to mobilize resources, influence policy, and implement impactful programs across Nigeria’s 36 states. Her tenure is marked by strategic partnerships with governmental agencies, NGOs, and international organizations, enhancing the reach and sustainability of the Forum’s initiatives.
A Legacy of Compassionate and Strategic Leadership
Ambassador Professor Olufolake Abdulrazaq exemplifies a rare blend of compassion, strategic vision, and effective leadership. Her relentless dedication to uplifting marginalized communities, promoting gender equality, and advancing sustainable development has transformed countless lives and set a benchmark for public service.
Her work continues to inspire hope and drive progress, positioning Kwara State—and Nigeria—as models of inclusive growth and social justice.