Neglecting a Legacy: The Omission of Late Major General Abdulkareem Adisa’s Contributions to Kwara State By Arikewuyo Sulyman
By Arikewuyo Sulyman
(a concern Ilorin Youth)
The recent commissioning of projects in Kwara State, led by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, was meant to be a celebration of development, progress, and recognition of individuals who have contributed to the growth of the state. The governor, in naming these projects, sought to honour key figures whose efforts have shaped the state’s advancement. However, in doing so, a glaring omission was made—one that calls into question the completeness of the state’s historical recognition. Late Major General Abdulkareem Adisa, a man whose legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Ilorin and Kwara State as a whole, was left out of this honour despite his immense contributions.
Late Major General Adisa was not just a military officer; he was a statesman who held several high-ranking positions in Nigeria. He served as Acting Military Governor of Imo State, Governor of Oyo State, and later, Minister of Works and Housing. In these capacities, he played a crucial role in policy-making and infrastructural development, leaving behind a lasting impact on Nigeria’s governance and progress. His leadership style, marked by discipline and a deep sense of duty, was instrumental in shaping the regions he served.
Beyond his national service, Late Major General Adisa was a dedicated son of Ilorin, and his contributions to Kwara State were far-reaching. Unlike many public officials whose legacies are tied solely to their time in office, Adisa invested his personal resources into the development of Ilorin, ensuring that his home state reaped the benefits of his success. His contributions were not just in words but in tangible projects that uplifted the lives of many.
One of his notable contributions was the fencing of the Yidi Prayingground, a vital religious space in Ilorin. This act alone demonstrated his commitment to preserving the community’s heritage and providing a safe, organized environment for gatherings. In addition to this, he established several businesses that boosted the local economy, created employment opportunities, and improved the standard of living for residents.
His investments in Ilorin were diverse and widespread. The Bekadims Hotel and Resort became a notable hospitality establishment, attracting visitors and contributing to the state’s tourism and economic growth. He also established the Adisa Bakare Educational Endowment Fund, an initiative that supported students and promoted access to quality education, reinforcing his belief in human capital development.
In the financial sector, he founded the Oja Iya Community Bank, providing financial services to small business owners and local entrepreneurs who needed access to capital. His presence in the health sector was equally significant, with the establishment of Diskabog Pharmacy and Diskabog Clinic, both of which provided essential healthcare services to the people of Ilorin.
The Diskabog Group, a business empire he nurtured, included ventures such as Diskabog Bakery, Adisa Bakare Petroleum, Diskabog Gas Plant, Diskabog Plastic, and Diskabog Farm. These businesses were not just profit-driven enterprises but were part of his larger vision to industrialize Ilorin and create sustainable economic growth. Through these ventures, he empowered countless families by providing jobs, supporting local suppliers, and fostering entrepreneurship.
Given these undeniable contributions, it is disappointing that his name was not included among those honoured during the recent project commissioning. Recognizing leaders who have shaped the state should not be a selective process based on convenience or political considerations. True leadership means acknowledging all who have played a role in the development of Kwara State, regardless of current affiliations or circumstances.
The failure to acknowledge Late Major General Abdulkareem Adisa’s contributions does a disservice not only to his legacy but to the history of Kwara State. His investments, both in infrastructure and human development, have left an indelible mark that cannot be erased by mere omission. Future generations deserve to know the truth about those who built the foundations upon which the state stands today.
Honouring the legacy of leaders like Late Major General Adisa is about more than just naming projects after them—it is about ensuring that history reflects the true architects of Kwara’s progress. The government must take steps to correct this oversight, recognizing his invaluable contributions and ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire the people of Kwara State for years to come.
