Anniversary: Gov. Ododo Affirms Commitment To Transforming Kogi Into Giant of Nigeria

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has sought continued cooperation and ideas from citizens to develop the state.

The Governor made the call in a message to the people of the state on the occasion of 33rd anniversary of creation of Kogi State.

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The Governor stated that no administration could succeed without the support of the people it serves.

“Together, we will shape a Kogi that generations to come will be proud to call home.

It is with utmost humility, profound pride and gratitude that address you today to mark the 33rd Anniversary of the creation of Kogi State, a State drenched in history and culture, the Confluence of two of Africa’s biggest Rivers, a Confluence of cultural heritages, our Confluence of Opportunities. In diversity, we have built an indomitable strength and thrust Kogi into the heart of our very nation.” Ododo pointed out.

Alhaji Ododo applauded former Military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida for considering it expedient to create this wonderful state, founding fathers and my fathers and leaders who have at one time or the other sat in this Lugard House to pilot the destiny of our dear state. We are not there yet.

“As the 5th person to be elected to serve as the Chief Servant of our dear state, I can stand here today because of the sacrifices and legacies of our founding fathers and the many leaders who have served this state with dedication.

I have had two military administrators and four civilian Governors come and go before me, each of whom led an Administration which contributed in no small measure to where we are today. Their work in laying the foundation for our development over the years cannot be overlooked. We will not only continue where they left off, but strive to build on their successes to achieve even greater things for our state.

“I pay special tribute to my immediate predecessor and leader, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON, who made remarkable strides, especially in infrastructure and good governance, which helped to position our state to benefit from improved and modern governance indices.”

The Governor commended the landmark ruling of the Supreme Court last Friday affirming his victory in the November 11, 2023, Governorship Elections, which puts an end to the disputes following that election.

He stressed that it was now time for to come together as one big family.

“I call on all Kogites, including my opponents in the opposition to join our march to a Kogi of our dream, a Kogi we hope to bequeath to the generation next.

“Our strength lies in our unity, and with unity, we can achieve the greatness that Kogi is both destined and made for.

As Chief Servant, Ododo said it is a responsibility bestowed on him by the law and morality to defend every Kogite everywhere in the world and to ensure that Kogites are not subjected to any act of aggression and oppression.

He described as unacceptable harassment of candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Alhaji Murtala Yakubu Ajaka by some miscreants after the judgement noting that violence, intimidation, and disrespect have no place in democracy.

“I have called on law enforcement agencies to swiftly investigate the matter and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. We must always uphold peace and respect for one another as we build a better Kogi.”

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fulfilling every promise in his Manifesto and those contained in Kogi State 32-Year Development Plan.

“They are designed to usher in sustainable development, improved infrastructure, enhanced security, and a brighter future for our people.”

Ododo praised the commitment and leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR through his Renewed Hope Agenda that is already giving hope to Nigerians.

The Governor assured all aspirants in the forthcoming Local council polls slated for October 19, 2024 and the people that the elections will be free, fair, and transparent.

While affirming his aspirations towards transforming the Confluence State into the giant of Nigeria by good governance and transformational leadership, Ododo urged the people to stay united, committed, and focused on the future as the best days are ahead.