In a decisive move to fortify its premises against criminal activities, the Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies (CAILS) in Ilorin has officially engaged local vigilante groups. This strategic security overhaul replaces the previously employed, officially registered night guards.
The institution's management, led by its Acting Provost, Dr. Saad Hadi, announced this significant shift to newsmen in Ilorin on November 8, 2025. The primary objective is to secure college properties from recurring theft and to substantially enhance the overall safety of the campus environment.
Multi-Layered Security and Infrastructure Upgrades
Dr. Hadi detailed a comprehensive security strategy that goes beyond the vigilante engagement. The management has initiated a CCTV surveillance system specifically at the College's transformer point to monitor and deter vandalism. Furthermore, to improve visibility and security during night hours, the college has embarked on the installation of solar lighting systems across the entire campus.
According to the Provost, all these measures are targeted at strengthening security and putting a stop to the repeated incidents of thievery that the institution has faced.
Academic Innovations and Staff Welfare Achievements
Beyond security, Dr. Hadi highlighted a series of remarkable academic and administrative advancements since he assumed office in 2023. In a push for digital literacy, the college has implemented mandatory computer training for all its students. To ensure an uninterrupted power supply for these digital initiatives, the College Internet Centre, Accounting Laboratory, and Computer Laboratories have been solarised.
Looking to the future, the management has ongoing plans to launch online learning platforms and establish outreach centres, which will significantly expand academic access for students.
Dr. Hadi proudly listed the institution's achievements, which include:
- Attaining pioneer status as the first institution in Nigeria to secure NBTE approval for ND Law and ND Sharia/Civil Law programmes.
- Successful implementation of staff promotions for 2023 and 2024 with full financial benefits.
- Consistent and timely payment of staff salaries, including the payment of a peculiar allowance and six months' arrears occasioned by the new minimum wage.
- Securing full NBTE accreditation for six National Diploma (ND) programmes: Accounting, Computer Science, Mass Communication, Library and Information Science, Sharia Law, and Civil Law.
- Achieving a 100% pass rate in the 2024 Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) re-accreditation.
Infrastructure Development and Future Projects
On infrastructure, the college has made substantial investments. A major milestone was the installation of a 3,300 KVA central power transformer, a project where the transformer was donated by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the installation costs were borne by the college.
Other ongoing projects include the alumni-sponsored construction of a Law Moot Court for practical legal training. The college has also secured assurance from the NCC for e-learning resources and a one-year library subscription, paving the way for a more robust digital academic environment.
Through these concerted efforts in security, staff welfare, academic innovation, and infrastructural renewal, Dr. Hadi affirmed that CAILS has been positively repositioned and remains committed to promoting Arabic, Islamic, and legal education in Nigeria.
