Prince Sulaiman Abubakar Sai Kayi is a pivotal figure in Kwara State’s grassroots transformation, blending royal heritage with a deep commitment to community service. Hailing from Ilorin West’s royal family, his name “Sai Kayi” means “We are with you,” symbolizing unity and support—a guiding principle in uniting diverse communities across the state.
Prince Sai Kayi has earned trust through integrity, strong networks, and visible progress under Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s leadership. He actively ensures local voices influence policy by engaging traditional leaders, market women, and fostering civic pride through initiatives like installing national flags. His work has strengthened partnerships between government and grassroots communities.
The impact is evident in the peaceful acceptance of urban renewal projects, improved healthcare, revitalized education, and empowerment programs benefiting thousands. Prince Sai Kayi envisions a Kwara led with humility, transparency, and action—where every citizen feels valued and progress is measured by unity and well-being.
This interview offers insight into Prince Sai Kayi’s journey, strategies, and vision as he helps shape Kwara’s future, providing valuable lessons in leadership, community engagement, and sustainable development.
Please introduce yourself briefly, including your background and where you hail from.
I am Prince Sulaiman Abubakar Sekai, known as “Sai Kayi,” meaning “We are with you.” This name was given during my student journalism and unionism days, reflecting solidarity and support. I come from Ilorin West, Kwara State, where both my parents hold royal titles. My father, Prince Muhammed, is the son of Emir Suleiman, the sixth Emir of Ilorin, descendant of Sheu Alimi, founder of the Alimi dynasty. My mother is a princess from the Fagba Dynasties in Magaji-ngari Ward. Growing up in this heritage instilled a strong sense of responsibility toward my community.
What major challenges have you faced in grassroots mobilization, and how did you overcome them?
Grassroots mobilization often faces skepticism and resistance from community members doubtful of government intentions. Overcoming this requires patience, consistent engagement, and delivering tangible results.
Another challenge is limited financial resources for my office, forcing reliance on personal networks and goodwill. Despite this, visible urban renewal projects and empowerment programs have gradually won over skeptics. Support from friends and associates has helped sustain efforts.
How do you ensure local communities’ voices are heard in the Governor’s administration?
We maintain constant contact with community leaders—Magajis, Alanguas, Imams, market leaders, and youth groups—who relay concerns and aspirations. Events like the Salah festival allow people to witness Kwara’s transformation firsthand, reinforcing transparent communication.
Regular forums enable direct community input, which we relay to the Governor and ministries. We monitor projects through community feedback to ensure accountability. Symbolic gestures, like installing Nigerian flags in public spaces, foster unity and pride.
How do you measure the impact of your grassroots mobilization on Kwara’s development?
The peaceful acceptance of urban renewal projects, such as road expansions and market reorganizations, shows grassroots understanding and support. Active community involvement, including reporting abandoned projects, indicates growing civic engagement.
The absence of protests during projects reflects alignment between government work and community interests. When people feel heard and see improvements, they become partners in development.
How does your office coordinate with other agencies for effective grassroots mobilization?
Coordination is key. We maintain strong relationships with political parties through the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) to ensure inclusivity and reduce tensions.
We engage government agencies, artisan groups, transport unions, and market associations to address sectoral needs. When issues arise, I liaise with commissioners and agency heads to mobilize resources and expertise, streamlining project delivery.
What are your plans to sustain and improve grassroots mobilization in Kwara?
Sustaining mobilization depends on continuing tangible benefits—improved infrastructure, healthcare, education, and empowerment programs.
I plan to deepen engagement by expanding outreach and creating more dialogue platforms. Strengthening partnerships with local leaders and associations will ensure prompt attention to concerns.
I also aim to leverage technology and social media to communicate achievements and gather feedback. Empowerment initiatives will continue, equipping citizens with skills and resources to improve livelihoods.
How do you feel about your nomination for the grassroots mobilization award? Do you feel you deserve it?
The nomination is an honor and a responsibility. Many dedicated individuals work at the grassroots, so being recognized is humbling.
It motivates me to raise the bar, remain accessible, humble, and committed. I dedicate this recognition to the communities I serve and thank those who nominated me.
What message do you have for the people of Kwara and those working under Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq?
My message is unity and inspiration. Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq exemplifies leadership grounded in humility, sincerity, and prudent governance. If we all adopt these values, Kwara and Nigeria will experience transformative progress.
I encourage respect, collaboration, and service with integrity. Leadership is about serving the people, not personal gain. Together, we can build a prosperous, inclusive Kwara and a beacon of good governance.
Can you highlight key grassroots projects benefiting communities under the Governor?
Key achievements include revitalizing health centers across all 193 wards, restoring them with modern equipment and qualified staff to provide affordable healthcare.
Water supply has improved through dam rehabilitation and infrastructure investments, ensuring steady access to clean water.
Urban renewal projects have modernized Ilorin with expanded roads, reorganized markets, and beautified public spaces, earning global recognition.
Education has been revitalized by clearing debts to SUBEB, unlocking federal support, improving schools, teacher welfare, and student performance.
Empowerment programs have provided thousands with financial support, equipment, and training, fostering economic independence.
What strategies do you use to mobilize grassroots support for the government?
My strategy centers on building trust through integrity and consistent delivery. I maintain open communication with traditional leaders, market women, transport unions, and youth