IDRIS AHMED, Lokoja
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed the aspiration and commitment of his administration to the transformation of the state by offering good governance and leadership
He urged the people of the state to remain united, committed and focused on the future as it is on the paths to greatness, declaring that the best days are ahead.
The Governor gave the assurances and hope on Tuesday in Lokoja, in his address to mark the 33rd Anniversary of the creation of Kogi State, described as
the Confluence of two of Africa’s biggest Rivers, a Confluence of cultural heritages, and Confluence of Opportunities, that has grown through indomitable strength and thrust despite diversity.
Ododo noted with esteem satisfaction that the creation of Kogi State in 1991 from the Old Kwara and Benue States, heralded a new beginning, a new partnership for development and a new destiny and a renewed commitment to foster unity and development.
While hailing the former Military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida for considering it expedient to create the state, the Governor also saluted the founding fathers,and leaders who at one time or the other have served the state with dedication.
He equally appreciated the wonderful development efforts of the past Governors and Military Administrators, who unarguably laid the solid foundation for the present enviable state
“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,”Ododo stated.
The Governor who expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s judgment last Friday, that affirmed his victory in the November 11, 2023, Governorship Elections, said it is not just a win for him, or his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) but for democracy itself and for every citizen and resident of this great state.
” The landmark ruling has puts an end to the disputes following that election, and it is now time for us 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.,” He said
While commending the President of the Federation , the Governor noted that ” Our progress would not have been possible without the commitment and support of our father, leader , mentor and President of our dear nation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
” His leadership and support for the development of our state and our nation is evident in his Renewed Hope Agenda that is already giving hope to Nigeria and Nigerians. His personal mentoring has continued to help steady our hands on the helm of the ship of state since we came to the office on 27th January this year.
“His administration has also consistently provided us with the guidance and resources necessary for growth-focused governance.” Ododo stated.
He therefore thanked the Almighty God for His abundant blessings upon the land and the people, through His grace alone that we have found the strength, wisdom, and success to overcome our challenges and seize our opportunities.