Governor Ododo Hails Nigeria at 64, Calls for Unity, Resilience »

Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 64th independence anniversary, stressing the importance of unity, resilience and progress as factors that would ensure that the country attains the level of greatness envisaged by the founding fathers.

Governor Ododo in his address to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2024, also congratulated the people of Kogi State, while outlining the achievements of his administration.

Governor Ododo celebrated the bravery of Nigeria’s past leaders, both civilian and military, who fought for the nation’s independence and worked to maintain its unity. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the country since independence but praised the resilience of Nigerians, emphasizing that the nation is destined for greatness.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and harmonization of the naira exchange rate, stating that while these decisions may cause temporary hardship, they are necessary for long-term prosperity. The governor expressed his confidence in Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, urging Nigerians to support the president’s efforts for national growth.

Addressing the people of Kogi State, Governor Ododo detailed his administration’s proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the 2024 flood season, which he described as already underway. He called on residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate, assuring them of the government’s preparedness to respond to any emergencies.

Governor Ododo also highlighted the achievements of his administration in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and security. He noted the reduction of Kogi State’s domestic debt from N121 billion to N35 billion, earning the state a positive Fitch rating. He discussed ongoing road projects, the launch of gully erosion control initiatives, and the upgrade of Adogo airstrip to an international cargo airport.

In education and healthcare, Governor Ododo emphasized ongoing infrastructural improvements and the expansion of the state’s health insurance scheme. He announced the upcoming disbursement of scholarships and bursaries to over 45,000 students. Additionally, he lauded efforts to strengthen the welfare of civil servants, including prompt payment of salaries and pensions.

Governor Ododo also unveiled the Ododo Youth Empowerment and Skill Acquisition Programme (OYESA), aimed at training over 250 youths in areas such as CNG conversion, welding, and solar system installation. This initiative, he explained, is part of the administration’s strategy to reduce unemployment and prepare young people for the future economy.

The governor expressed gratitude to his predecessor, Yahaya Bello, for laying the foundations for the state’s accelerated progress and called on the people of Kogi State to support the administration’s continuity and consolidation agenda.

As the state prepares for Local Government elections on October 19, Governor Ododo assured residents that the elections would be free and fair, urging them to support the APC candidates.

Governor Ododo reaffirmed his commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive Kogi State and wished all Kogites and Nigerians a joyous Independence Day celebration.