Kwara Hotels, once a jewel of Ilorin’s skyline, crumbled under neglect. Now, a N17 billion rescue mission is on the horizon, backed by the Kwara State House of Assembly.
In a decisive move, the Assembly threw its weight behind Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq’s decision to rehabilitate the iconic hotel, replacing the previously chosen contractor with Craneburg Construction Company, known for its track record of competence. This decision supersedes the earlier concession granted to the Crystal Group, whose past performance, including a building collapse in Ilorin, raised concerns about their ability to handle such a critical project.
The House Leader, Abdulkadir Oba Magaji, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, citing the Sulu Gambari Road tragedy as a stark reminder of the importance of entrusting major projects to well-qualified companies. This shift away from the Crystal Group signifies a commitment to prioritize professionalism and quality over potential reputational risks.
Beyond Kwara Hotels, the Assembly also focused on strengthening local governance. They considered and passed a bill amending the Kwara State Local Government Electoral Law, paving the way for smoother and more transparent elections at the grassroots level. This amendment holds the potential to revitalize local democracy and empower communities through their representatives.
In essence, this week’s Kwara State House of Assembly session marks a pivotal moment. Not only does it chart a course for the revival of a long-standing symbol of Ilorin, but it also lays the groundwork for a more vibrant and accountable local government system. The N17 billion Kwara Hotels rehabilitation project, backed by the Assembly’s resolute stance, has the potential to breathe new life into the hospitality sector, generate jobs, and become a beacon of progress for the entire state.
