The Kwara Development Group (KDG) has praised the Kwara State Government, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, for its merit-driven recruitment of 1,800 new teachers into the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM).
In a statement signed by its President, Olaide Ahli, the group described the recruitment process as “a landmark achievement that reflects the Governor’s unwavering commitment to merit, fairness, and the future of education in Kwara State.”
The group noted that the recruitment exercise, which lasted over three months, included online applications, computer-based tests, and physical interviews—all of which were transparently conducted with zero political interference.
“Governor AbdulRazaq has once again raised the bar by insisting that the TESCOM recruitment be conducted 100% on merit. This is a bold departure from the past and a clear demonstration that this administration prioritizes excellence and equity,” Ahli said.
KDG also applauded the government’s inclusion of 31 Persons Living With Disabilities (PLWDs) among the successful candidates, and the deliberate allocation of 44% of the new teachers to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.
“This shows foresight. The emphasis on STEM, technical, and core subjects means the government is not just filling vacancies, but strategically building the future workforce of the state. The education sector will no doubt be positively transformed by this decision,” the group stated.
The group also hailed the decision to conduct mandatory drug tests—supervised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)—as a condition for final employment, describing it as a “model step to ensure that only individuals of sound mind and character are entrusted with shaping the next generation.”
According to the TESCOM statement, the drug test exercise will take place from Wednesday April 9 to Saturday April 12, 2025, and will be coordinated by Hon. Mukail Olamilekan Aileru, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug Abuse, Prevention and Control. Governor AbdulRazaq has also approved full funding of the drug tests for all 1,800 successful applicants.
KDG further highlighted the importance of the six-year bond required of all new teachers, aimed at curbing mass transfers and ensuring rural communities are not deprived of quality educators.
“We urge the new employees to serve with dedication, integrity, and patriotism. The children of Kwara deserve the best, and it is now their duty to deliver,” Ahli added.
The group called on community leaders, education stakeholders, and parents to support the new teachers and partner with the government in ensuring the success of this initiative.
“Once again, Governor AbdulRazaq has shown that leadership is about service and vision. This is a clear message that in Kwara, merit matters,” the statement concluded.
