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  • Residents give Ododo kudos for development at second anniversary

    Residents give Ododo kudos for development at second anniversary

    Public Affairs Analyst, Dr Mahmoud Alfa, and residents have lauded Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, for his transformative leadership and impact in his second year in  office.

    In a statement, Alfa hailed the governor for  carving a path of transformation, hope, and sustainable development in Kogi.

    He said: “I congratulate Your Excellency on the occasion of your second anniversary in office as governor of Kogi State.

    “Two years in leadership may appear brief in the journey of governance, yet history teaches us that purposeful leadership is not measured by time alone but by impact, vision, and the courage to translate promises into tangible realities. In this regard, your administration has steadily carved a path of transformation, hope, and sustainable development in Kogi State.

    “As a public affairs analyst, development advocate, and committed stakeholder in Nigeria’s progress, I have followed your governance trajectory with interest. Your leadership style reflects a blend of pragmatism and people-centred governance—an approach that prioritises infrastructure and human development.

    “Reflecting on your administration’s milestones, one is compelled to agree with your assertion that governance must be anchored on long-term planning and sustainable growth. Indeed, your government has aligned its initiatives with Kogi’s 32-year development plan, ensuring continuity and institutional stability in development.

    “Your strides in economic revitalisation and infrastructure expansion stand out. Revival of the Confluence Rice Mill, which has supported farmers and generated jobs, demonstrates a commitment to agricultural productivity and economic empowerment’’.

    ‘‘As you rightly noted, empowering farmers and strengthening the agricultural value chain is not merely an economic strategy but a pathway to food security and inclusive growth.

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    “Equally commendable is your administration’s ambitious infrastructure agenda, including the construction and rehabilitation of roads, installation of solar streetlights, and revitalisation of waterworks. These interventions have not only enhanced connectivity but have also restored confidence in governance at the grassroots.

    “In the social sector, your achievements in healthcare and education are strategic and compassionate. Over 220,000 residents now benefit from Kogi State Health Insurance Scheme, while billions of naira have been invested in revitalising primary healthcare centres. Your government’s commitment to free healthcare services, disease prevention, and health promotion underscores your belief that “development must begin with people’s wellbeing.”

    “In education, your administration has strengthened institutional infrastructure, expanded bursary schemes, and sustained free education policies, reaffirming your conviction that “the future of Kogi State lies in the empowerment of its young minds.” Notably, your government’s payment of examination fees and investment in tertiary institutions reflects a leadership that understands education as both a social responsibility and a strategic investment.

    “Your approach to security and social stability has also been decisive. The employment of hunters, establishment of forward operation bases, and integration of vigilante operatives into the civil service demonstrate a proactive commitment to safeguarding lives and property. As you observed, “no development can thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity,” a statement that resonates deeply with the realities of governance in contemporary Nigeria.

    “Beyond domestic reforms, your administration’s efforts to position Kogi as an investment destination—highlighted by international partnerships and industrial development initiatives—signal a forward-looking economic vision. Your belief that Kogi must evolve into a hub of industrialisation and innovation reflects a leader who governs not just for today but for generations yet unborn.

    “Your Excellency, your leadership journey over the past two years affirms that purposeful governance is built on consistency, courage, and compassion. In your words, governance must be guided by “a clear vision for prosperity and a commitment to sustainable development.” This philosophy has evidently shaped your administration’s trajectory.

    “On behalf of progressive minds and concerned citizens who believe in the promise of Kogi State, I congratulate you on this milestone. May the coming years of your administration witness even greater achievements, deeper impact, and enduring legacies.

    As you continue to steer the affairs of Kogi State, I am confident that history will record your tenure as one defined by transformation, inclusiveness, and sustainable progress.”

  • Ododo unveils PAAU projects, receives Honorary Doctorate

    Ododo unveils PAAU projects, receives Honorary Doctorate

    By Rabiat Abdullahi,

    Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, on Saturday witnessed the inauguration of major projects and the conferment of honorary degrees at the grand finale of its 7th Combined Convocation Ceremony and 25th anniversary.

    Kogi State Governor and Visitor to the university, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, graced the occasion and inaugurated  all projects executed by the Vice Chancellor, Prof.  Marietu  Tenuche.

    The projects included,  Patrick Adaba Road; Bassa Avenue East and West; the University Stadium pitch; the University Clinic; the fully equipped Central Research Laboratory; and renovated academic infrastructure.

     The university also delivered landmark projects, including the Faculty of Agriculture Academic Office Block; Faculty of Arts and Humanities Academic Office Block; College of Health Sciences Classroom Block; a 500-seater Lecture Theatre for the College of Health Sciences; and the New Senate Building, currently under construction.

    Prof. Tenuche, on the authority of the University Senate and Governing Council, also  conferred honorary doctorate degrees on eminent personalities.

     Ododo received a Doctorate Degree in Public Relations.

    He praised his predecessor and founder of the university, the late Prince Abubakar Audu, for his vision and commitment to education.

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    “For this, we are eternally grateful—his conviction to believe deeply in the power of education to transform society, empower generations and break chains of limitation,” the governor said.

    He noted that although the pioneer is late, his vision remains alive in the thousands of students whose aspirations are shaped within the university. He also praised the institution’s growth in infrastructure, a stable academic calendar, and the expansion of research structures.

    Ododo highlighted special intervention programmes aimed at ensuring access to education, stressing that financial constraints should not deny students the opportunity to pursue their dreams.

    “No student should forfeit their dreams because of circumstances beyond their control,” he said.

    He added that the university should be more than a centre for lectures and examinations, describing it as a community of ideas and a home of inspiration.

  • Governance expert Alfa congratulates Ododo, deputy on two years in office

    Governance expert Alfa congratulates Ododo, deputy on two years in office

    Political economist and governance reform expert, Dr. Mahmoud Bala Alfa, has congratulated Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and Deputy Governor, Salifu Joel Oyibo, on the second anniversary of their administration.

    In a goodwill message to mark the milestone, Dr. Alfa described the two-year mark as a crucial phase for consolidating achievements and strengthening forward planning in governance.

    He said the administration has sustained political stability while advancing policies aimed at reinforcing public institutions and enhancing service delivery across the state.

    According to him, the Ododo-led government has recorded notable progress in critical areas such as infrastructure, education and social intervention programmes targeted at women, youths and vulnerable populations.

    Read Also: Gov. Ododo, pay retired judges within 14 days or face lawsuit

    Dr. Alfa also commended efforts to promote peace, unity and social cohesion, noting that these initiatives are essential for sustainable development.

    He stressed that leadership at this stage demands sustained focus, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility, adding that the coming years offer an opportunity to deepen impact and convert policies into lasting benefits for citizens.

    He expressed optimism that ongoing reforms and programmes would further improve the welfare of Kogi residents, while wishing Governor Ododo and his deputy continued success in governance.

    Dr. Alfa is a political economy analyst with extensive experience in public policy and institutional reform and holds the traditional title of Adoja Okenyi.

  • Kogi APC youths endorse Tinubu, Ododo

    Kogi APC youths endorse Tinubu, Ododo

    State Governor Usman Ododo has described President Bola Tinubu as Nigeria’s boldest reformer, declaring that his courage and results-driven leadership have earned him endorsement by Kogi youths ahead of 2027.

    Speaking on Saturday to a massive crowd at the President Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre, Lokoja, during the rally marking two years of his administration, Governor Ododo said the gathering was both a celebration of youth-focused governance in Kogi State and a clear vote of confidence in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “The youths of Kogi State have spoken with one loud, clear and courageous voice,” Ododo declared. Your endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not emotional; it is informed. It is the decision of young people who can think, who can judge results, and who understand leadership”, he said.

    The governor described President Tinubu as the boldest President in the history of Nigeria, stressing that while many leaders would have chosen political safety over national interest, Tinubu took tough decisions to prevent economic collapse.

    “Any politician thinking only of re-election would have played safe,” Ododo said, adding “but Jagaban faced the storm, took the heat and led from the front. Today, we are seeing the results of courage: the naira is stabilising, food prices are responding, the cost of living is dropping, and the standard of living is rising. This is not propaganda; this is about results.”

    Governor Ododo told the youths that no administration in Nigeria’s history has prioritised youth empowerment like that of President Tinubu, citing expanded opportunities in agriculture, skills development, economic inclusion and youth participation in governance.

    He also spoke about his personal relationship with the President, describing Tinubu as a father figure whose guidance and support have strengthened his resolve to serve Kogi State faithfully.

    “I am lucky to be serving Kogi State at a time when Jagaban is serving Nigeria,” the governor said, adding that the youths’ endorsement showed they were “the best demographic coalition in Nigeria,” capable of recognising good governance when they see it.

    Ododo also commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her compassion and the visible impact of the Renewed Hope Initiative in Kogi State, noting that thousands of families, women and vulnerable citizens have benefited. He acknowledged the contributions of Seyi Tinubu to youth empowerment across the country, describing the Tinubu family as “a family of vision, kindness and impact.”

    The governor praised the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, whom he described as a “game changer” quietly strengthening the party and positioning it for future victories.

    Accepting the youths’ endorsement with humility, Governor Ododo urged them to remain united and focused on the collective interest of the state and nation.

    “Whether you are from Ejuku or Obangede, Ajiolo or Anyigba, Okene or Kabba, we are all Kogites,” he said, adding “Our enemies are not our ethnic groups, but those who divide us while stealing our commonwealth.”

    Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to development, Ododo highlighted achievements in agriculture, healthcare, education, road infrastructure, security and economic growth, assuring the youths that their mandate and trust would never be betrayed.

    In a personal reflection that drew loud applause, the governor said, “I had no spoon as a child, not to talk of a silver or golden one. If I can be here today, you can be anywhere tomorrow. Your hope is alive, and we will never let you down.”

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     Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Aridaojo Monday Anyebe, said the rally was a clear statement that Kogi youths were “awake, engaged and firmly aligned with purposeful leadership.” He described Governor Ododo as a leader who placed youths “not at the edge, but at the very heart of governance.”

    Anyebe outlined key achievements of the administration, including the strategic appointment of youths into government positions, training of over 3,000 youths in critical skills such as CNG conversion, welding, fabrication and engineering trades, the first-ever Kogi Youth Summit, statewide youth town hall meetings, regular ward-level engagements, monthly subventions to youth and student bodies, and sustained empowerment and vocational programmes.

    He also highlighted the timely payment of bursaries and scholarships, free healthcare for elderly citizens, welfare packages for corps members, and the repositioning of sports as a platform for unity, talent discovery and economic opportunity.

    “The Kogi youth see you, Your Excellency. We feel your impact and appreciate your consistency,” Anyebe said, while also acknowledging the role of the former governor of the state, Alh Yahaya Bello in pioneering youth leadership in Nigeria.

    Calling for party unity ahead of future elections, the commissioner urged stakeholders to set aside ego and division, stressing that the re-election of President Tinubu and the continued success of Governor Ododo’s administration require collective commitment.

    The rally ended with chants of solidarity for the APC, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, as Kogi youths pledged sustained support for what they described as a shared journey of renewed hope, stability and progress.

  • Gov. Ododo, pay retired judges within 14 days or face lawsuit

    Gov. Ododo, pay retired judges within 14 days or face lawsuit

    • By Mutalubi Adebayo

    How this unnecessarily protracted issue escaped my memory still confounds me.

    I can recall that when I took up the Governor and the Government of Osun State over the long overdue unpaid allowances and rightful entitlements of the judicial officers of Osun State, in my 2024 piece in respect of the non-payment of the entitlements and allowances due to the judicial officers in Osun State, I received a call from one of the finest minds that ever adorned the bench of this country: the cerebral, erudite, articulate, very forthright and incorruptible Honourable Justice  Alaba Omolaye -Ajileye ( Rtd).

    He urged me to please assist in liberating the judicial officers of Kogi State too, who are equally suffering in silence from the tyranny and oppression of the Kogi State Governor and the Kogi State Government.

    I gave Honourable Justice Alaba Ajileye my words of assurance that I will take up the matter and ensure that all their due allowances and entitlements are paid to them in the same way and manner that I fought for the judicial officers in Osun State.

    It is pertinent that I must commend the Governor of Osun State, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Jackson Adeleke for promptly acceding to my demands then by settling all the outstanding entitlements due to the judicial officers in Osun State at that time without waiting for the ultimatum that I gave the state to elapse and thus preventing the need for a recourse to filing unnecessary litigations and its attendant costs and time.

    The Governor of Osun State further earned my greatest respect and adoration because, even though government is a continuum, he merely inherited those backlog of unpaid allowances and dues owed the judicial officers in the state from the two previous governments of APC in the State while the government under his stewardship didn’t owe any single judicial officer or public or civil servant in the state a dime or a penny. Kudos to the jolly good fellow, amiable, no dull moment, every smiling and always dancing Governor of Osun State.

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    Kudos must also be given to one of the media aides of the Governor of Osun State in person of Mr. Tunde Busari who did not only call me on phone, but who also drove down to meet me in Ibadan to explain to me the challenges their government was facing over the matter and assured me that the Governor was working round the clock to ensure payment of same soonest.

    Please permit my digression and let me return to the callous, abnormal and irresponsible withholding and or non- payment of the due entitlements and allowances of the judicial officers in Kogi State and all other states where such breach and rape of the rights of judicial officers and those of any other persons, for that matter, may be occurring in the country.

    I condemn such acts of misgovernance and trampling on human rights of fellow citizens as a display of executive recklessness, tyranny, oppression and anti-people. It is even a genocide targeted at the smooth administration of justice with a view to truncating and pervert same.

    I have always formed the opinion that whenever any Government behaves irresponsibly and unconstitutionally, it behoves the people to critically examine the character of the person occupying the position of the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in that government to fully understand the reasons for the drift of that government towards perfidy and malady, and the same would be readily known.

    A similar situation like that of Osun and Kogi States was foisted upon the government of Senator Abiola Ajimobi, the father of the modern Oyo State, upon his assumption of office on the 29th day of May, 2011.

    Some 11 retired Judicial Officers in Oyo State which included five former Chief Judges and or Acting Chief Judges – Hon. Justices N. O. Adekola, M. O. Adio, Afolabi Adeniran, R. O. Oyetunde and J. O. Ige all now of blessed memories and some other 6)Six) retired judges that included Hon. Justices T. O. Adeniran, K. A. Jimoh, L. O. Arasi, Atilade Ojo, S. O. Akinola, and A. A.Sanda all now of blessed memories made several appeals and entreaties to the government of Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala to pay them their severance allowances and gratuities in accordance with the extant provisions of the Entitlements of Judicial Officers as prescribed by National Wages and Salaries Commission.

    When all appeals and various letters they wrote to the state government fell on deaf ears, the retired judicial officers sued the state government for their due entitlements. An Amazon on the Bench, Honourable Justice Eni Esan (now retired), before whom the matter was assigned, courageously granted all the reliefs of the Claimant Judges and ordered the State Government to pay to the retired judges all their due entitlements.

    Instead of complying with the judgment and doing the needful, the PDP government of Otunba Alao-Akala appealed against the judgment at the Court of Appeal, Ibadan.

    We inherited that appeal upon our assumption of office in May 2011. When the retired judicial officers wrote to my Governor and also endorsed a copy to me, I did not wait for the directive of the Governor before I directed the Director of Civil Litigation to withdraw the appeal from the Court of Appeal.

    It is on record that I promptly prepared a memorandum to the Governor and rendered legal advice that we should settle all the due entitlements of the retired judicial officers forthwith and also with a written apology. The Governor approved the memo, and all the due entitlements and allowances of the judges were fully paid.

    Hon. Justice Arasi copiously referenced that purposeful governance of our government in his autobiography and was full of praises and commendation for the Government, the Governor and my goodself as the Attorney-General of the State at that material time, while he also condemned the irresponsible acts and mis-governance by the government that we succeeded.

    Without wasting more time and in order not to bore my readers unnecessarily, I do hereby give 14 days ultimatum to the Governor and the Government of Kogi State to settle all the due entitlements and allowances of the retired judicial officers in Kogi State, failing which I shall proceed to a competent of jurisdiction to file an action to compel the government to pay same and also ask for damages and punitive costs in respect of the those dues entitlements and allowances.

    Injustice to one anywhere is injustice to all everywhere. Irresponsible and non-responsive government must not be tolerated anywhere within the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Dated at Ibadan, this Monday, the 19th Day of January, 2026.

    • JCI Senator Adebayo (SAN) is the Asiwaju of Ita-Ege & Idi-Aro and Agba-Ofin of Orile-Igbon.

  • Terrorists, other criminals in Kogi get quit notice from Ododo

    Terrorists, other criminals in Kogi get quit notice from Ododo

    Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Ododo yesterday served quit notice on terrorists and criminals, declaring that their days were numbered.

    He made the declaration in Lokoja during the unveiling of security drones to tackle crimes.

    The governor stressed that Kogi would not harbour terrorists and criminals.

    His words: “Let me be very clear here: this administration will not submit to criminality. We have said it before, and we will say it again today, Kogi State will not negotiate with criminals. We will not surrender our communities.

    “We will not allow bandits or terrorists to take over any part of our land. Government must be in charge, not bandits, not kidnappers, not criminal sponsors. Our government is fully prepared to confront, attack, and defeat criminals operating within our territory.

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    “If any criminal group was in doubt about our determination, the unveiling of these drones should clear that doubt. To the criminals, I say this plainly: your time is running out. Kogi State’s strategic location as the gateway between the North and the South makes security a serious responsibility. “

    The governor emphasised that his administration had put in several efforts to tackle security challenges in the state, pointing out that these had made Kogi the most peaceful state in the Northcentral part of Nigeria.

    He assured that he would not relent in the task of making the state peaceful and free of criminals.

    “Over the last two years, our administration has recorded clear achievements in the security sector. We have built a strong, intelligence-led security framework that combines technology, community participation, inter-agency cooperation, and political will. Today, Kogi State stands as the most peaceful state in the Northcentral zone, and we are determined to be the safest state in Nigeria.

    “We strengthened grassroots intelligence by building security structures across all 239 political wards. We absorbed 2,752 Vigilante Service personnel into the civil service to improve welfare, discipline, and professionalism. We recruited and equipped hunters across the 21 local government areas to support operations in forests and hard-to-reach areas. We have also sustained clearance operations in several flashpoints, reclaiming territories previously threatened by criminals.’’

    “We constructed and equipped a Quick Response Unit to ensure rapid deployment to security threats. We procured and distributed patrol vehicles, operational vans, thousands of motorcycles, bulletproof vests, helmets, communication gadgets, and other equipment to enhance mobility, safety, and effectiveness. Today’s unveiling of these drones builds on these efforts. It strengthens our ability to see threats early, respond faster, deny criminals territory, and protect our people better.”

    Ododo thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring a safe and secured Kogi, declaring: “Mr President’s commitment to national security, inter-agency synergy, and intelligence-driven operations has made our work easier at the sub-national level. We are truly grateful.”

    The governor who sympathised with those affected by criminal activities, assured that his government “ is in full control. We are determined, we are prepared, and we will secure every kogi citizen.

    He added:  “I also appreciate the National Security Adviser; the Chief of Defence Staff; Chief of Army Staff; Chief of Naval Staff; Chief of Air Staff; DG, NIA; Inspector-General of Police; Director-General, Department of State Services; and Commandant-General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for their continuous support and collaboration. Our success so far is a product of synergy, shared intelligence, and joint operations.”

  • Kogi East backs Ododo’s second term, seeks return of power to zone in 2031

    Kogi East backs Ododo’s second term, seeks return of power to zone in 2031

    Stakeholders from Kogi East have endorsed Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for a second term in 2027 and resolved to pursue a strategic alliance aimed at returning political power to the senatorial district in 2031.

    This was part of resolutions reached at the Kogi East Political Summit held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Auditorium of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, Kogi State.

    The communiqué was signed by Professor David Avon Menenge, Secretary of the Planning Committee, and Barrister Musa Isiaka, Chairman of the Planning Committee.

    The summit, organised by the Kogi Elites Forum, brought together scholars from academia, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, women and youth groups, students, faith-based organisations, and Kogi East indigenes in the diaspora.

    Participants deliberated on the long-standing aspiration of Kogi East for fairness, social justice, equity and sustainable development, while acknowledging the economic constraints and political challenges confronting the district in its bid to regain the governorship of the state.

    In a keynote address, the guest speaker, Professor Ilemona Adofu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, presented an analysis of past Kogi State elections, stressing that numerical strength alone does not guarantee electoral victory. 

    He argued that Kogi East must pursue a statewide political agenda rather than an ethnic-based approach and cautioned that dislodging an incumbent governor requires broad, strategic alliances across senatorial districts.

    Speakers at the summit also paid tribute to the founding fathers of Kogi State, including Senator Ahmadu Ali, General Salihu Ibrahim and Senator Tunde Ogbeha, for their leadership roles in the state’s political evolution.

    Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Ododo on birthday

    The summit noted that the 2027 general election presents a critical opportunity for Kogi East to reset its political strategy. 

    Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained advocacy, unity of purpose, consultations and collaboration with other parts of the state to strengthen the district’s quest for power.

    In a 10-point communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, participants called for an urgent and workable alliance with Kogi Central, where the incumbent governor hails from, as a pathway to returning power to Kogi East.

    The summit appraised Governor Ododo’s two years in office, scoring him “very highly” on developmental initiatives and his handling of security challenges across the state. Consequently, participants unanimously endorsed him to seek re-election in 2027, with an understanding that power should return to Kogi East after the completion of his second term in 2031.

    The gathering also unveiled a “Movement for Strategic Alliance,” a mobilisation platform aimed at promoting peaceful elections devoid of violence and political malpractice in the state.

    It further resolved that a high-level committee comprising eminent leaders from Kogi East, Central and West be constituted to work out modalities for the rotation of power after 2031. While recognising Kogi West’s aspiration to produce the next governor, the summit demanded a level playing field for candidates from both Kogi East and Kogi West at the expiration of Governor Ododo’s tenure.

    As part of its implementation strategy, the summit announced the establishment of the Kogi Elites Strategic Group (KESG) to drive its resolutions. Traditional rulers were also encouraged to form a Kogi East Council of Traditional Rulers to enhance consultations and collaboration with government and other stakeholders.

    Participants commended the proposed establishment of a military barrack at Ogidibeje Junction and applauded the Chief of Army Staff, the Federal Government and the Kogi State Government for the initiative. They recommended the creation of a local security body to work with the barrack to further strengthen security in the state.

    The summit concluded with expressions of appreciation to traditional rulers, spiritual leaders, political party representatives, academics, speakers and panelists, as well as the organisers and the management of Prince Abubakar Audu University for their roles in the success of the event.

  • Tinubu congratulates Ododo on birthday

    Tinubu congratulates Ododo on birthday

    …lauds Kogi governor’s people-centred agenda

    …urges deeper reach of development initiatives 

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Governor of Kogi state, on his birthday, January 1, commending his leadership style and commitment to inclusive governance.

    In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Governor Ododo as one of the youngest state chief executives in the country, noting his background as an accountant who transitioned into public service and politics.

    The President recalled that Ododo served as Auditor-General for Local Governments in Kogi State before his election as governor in 2023, a trajectory he said has shaped the governor’s approach to prudent management and people-focused administration.

    President Tinubu praised the governor’s policies and programmes, urging him to expand their impact across the state. He encouraged Ododo to “deepen the reach of his initiatives” to ensure broader benefits for the people of Kogi.

    The President joined the people and government of the state in celebrating the governor, wishing him a happy birthday and a prosperous New Year, while expressing confidence that his administration would continue to deliver dividends of democracy to residents of the Confluence State.

  • Ododo inaugurates DAM Foundation’s projects in Kogi

    Ododo inaugurates DAM Foundation’s projects in Kogi

    Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo  of Kogi State has commissioned key development projects executed by Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha Foundation (DAM), in Kogi Central, as part of efforts to advance education, strengthen community development and promote economic empowerment.

     Mustapha is the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN).

    The projects, unveiled at a ceremony held at Kahal Hall, Inoziomi, in Adavi Local Government Area, included a modern hostel facility in Eika Adagu, Okehi Local Government Area, and the DAM Civic Centre at Ebegogo in Adavi LGA.

    Speaking at the event, Governor Ododo commended Mustapha for his commitment to grassroots development and described the projects as a demonstration of genuine concern for the welfare of the people.

    He urged other well-meaning individuals and organisations to support government efforts by investing in people-centred projects capable of improving living standards across the state.

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    The newly commissioned hostel facility is designed to provide safe and conducive accommodation, particularly for students and young people, while the DAM Civic Centre is expected to serve as a hub for sports, civic engagement, cultural activities and community interactions, aimed at fostering unity and talent development at the grassroots.

    In addition to the infrastructure projects, the DAM Foundation carried out a wide-ranging empowerment programme for residents across Kogi Central.

    Items including bags of rice and beans, sewing machines, solar panels, solar streetlights, solar-powered televisions, writing materials, laptops and tools for artisans such as bricklayers and welders were distributed, while start-up funds were also provided to widows, motorcycle riders and market women, alongside food condiments to support vulnerable households.

    In his remarks, Dr. Mustapha, founder of the DAM Foundation, said the projects were intended to go beyond physical structures, describing them as investments in hope, opportunity and long-term development.

    He noted that the empowerment initiative was targeted at promoting economic inclusion, especially among youths and small-scale entrepreneurs, by providing them with tools, skills and financial support to build sustainable livelihoods.

  • Kogi West leaders endorse Ododo for 2027, establish zonal security joint task force to curb banditry

    Kogi West leaders endorse Ododo for 2027, establish zonal security joint task force to curb banditry

    Kogi West political, traditional and community leaders have endorsed Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for a second term in 2027 after a major leadership and security summit held on Monday in Kabba, where stakeholders also demanded a stronger security framework across the district.

    The meeting drew a broad spectrum of participants, including traditional rulers, academics, political figures, youth leaders and women’s groups. 

    Leading the array of traditional rulers in the district to the event was the revered Oba (Dr) Solomon Dele Owoniyi, the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman of the Okun Area traditional council covering the entire five local government of Okunland, including Ówóró people of Lokoja LGA, the Guest Speaker, emeritus Professor Olu Obafemi, examined the history and ongoing dynamics of power and leadership struggles in the state, with emphasis on the political trajectory of Kogi West in a topic titled “Kogi West, Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.

    In a communique issued at the end of the summit, participants emphasised that unity, cooperation and strategic engagement are central to the district’s long-term political aspirations. 

    “If politics is truly about who gets what, how, and when, then unity of purpose must guide Kogi West,” the communique stated. 

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    The leaders also honoured the contributions of Kogi’s founding political figures, including Chief Sunday Awoniyi, Senator Tunde Ogbeha and Senator Ahmadu Ali, describing them as pillars who shaped the state’s development.

    Governor Ododo’s administration received strong commendation for what participants described as significant progress in infrastructure and governance across all senatorial districts. 

    The communique noted that his developmental strides had “changed the physical landscape of Kogi State and brought succour to the citizenry.” 

    They also praised his support for enhancing security, urging further assistance to intelligence networks to curb emerging threats. 

    The summit concluded that Ododo “deserves continuity in office come 2027” and formally endorsed him for re-election.

    Looking ahead, the leaders insisted that Kogi West must produce the governor in 2031 after Ododo’s potential second term. 

    They said the district had “waited patiently for 36 years to occupy the Lugard House” and should now be “rewarded unconditionally” with the state’s leadership after the second term of the incumbent Governor in 2031.

    Participants condemned recent divisive political comments circulating in the state, describing them as self-serving and harmful to peaceful coexistence. 

    They urged political actors to promote unity rather than inflame tensions.

    To implement its resolutions, the summit announced the establishment of a seven-member Council of Kogi West Traditional Rulers to liaise with stakeholders across other districts, a seven-member Eminent Persons Group to lead political consultations, and a Joint Security Task Force across the seven LGAs to enhance intelligence gathering, information sharing and coordinated vigilance, the summit announced the need for Kogi West Security Joint Task Force to be jointly coordinated by the seven(7) local government Chairmen in Kogi West.

    The summit ended with appreciation for organisers and attendees, with leaders noting that the meeting marked an important milestone in Kogi West’s efforts toward unity, improved security and future political advancement.