Governor Ododo's 100 Days in Office: A Reflection of Commitment to Progress, Prosperity for Kogi State »

By Kerry Haruna

The progress of development is often influenced by certain human paradigms of innovations. “100 days in office” is one of such innovations coined to heighten awareness among leaders who superintend and manage public affairs. It is an aperture to evaluate actions taken, understand their rationale and to determine future courses of action.

Today, we stand tall to salute the man who saw the value of tomorrow in human existentiality and governance, His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Governor of Kogi State, as he marks his 100 days in office.

In just under a hundred days since assuming office, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of has embarked on a remarkable journey of transformation, prioritizing key areas that resonate deeply with the welfare and progress of the state. His swift and resolute actions have laid a solid foundation for a brighter future, marked by enhanced security, improved workers’ welfare, and accelerated infrastructure development.

First of all, understanding that security of lives and properties is a fundamental responsibility of any government, as well as having paramount importance to peace and stability in fostering progress, Governor Ododo wasted no time in ensuring that the sector is properly positioned to function optimally. He has intensified efforts to strengthen synergy among security agencies. By fostering collaboration and coordination, he has bolstered the state’s capacity to tackle emerging security challenges effectively.

His initiative in procuring operational vehicles for security forces and the formation of special units known as the Quick Response Squad aimed at taming the upsurge in emerging criminal activities in Lokoja, the state capital and major towns in the state bottreses his proactive approach in equipping them with the necessary tools to safeguard lives and property.

The consolidation government of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo understands that prioritizing workers welfare has a significant positive impact on work culture because it fosters trustworthiness among the workforce while boosting overall morale within the workplace setting.

Governor Ododo’s dedication to prioritizing workers’ welfare is evident in his prompt payment of salaries and the consistent increase in the percentage paid to local government workers.

Understanding the pivotal role that the civil service play in driving the state’s development agenda, he has ensured that their hard work is duly rewarded and their financial stability safeguarded. By prioritizing salary and pension payments, he has not only restored confidence among workers but also injected vitality into the state’s economy, thereby fostering growth and prosperity.

Little wonder the organized labour in Kogi state couldn’t hide their joy and appreciation to the governor during the recent 2024 Workers Day celebration in Lokoja.

Within his first hundred days in office, Governor Ododo has not only reaffirmed, but has also backed words with action on his administration’s commitment to continue to build the capacity of youth and give them the necessary support to flourish in life.

The few political appointments made by the governor and the recent payment of all outstanding arrears of subvention to youths and student unions across the state points to his commitment to youths inclusion and empowerment. A move which has further endeared him to the vast youths population in the state.

In addition to his focus on security, and workers’ welfare, education and youths inclusiveness, Governor Ododo has demonstrated a strong commitment to infrastructure development. His determination to ensure the completion of inherited projects reflects a proactive stance towards consolidation and addressing the state’s infrastructural deficits. By prioritizing the timely completion of ongoing projects, he has laid the groundwork for enhanced connectivity, improved service delivery, and overall socio-economic development.

As Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo marks 100 days in office, it is safe to say that his administration has made significant strides in various sectors. In terms of security, there’s been a notable increase in efforts to curb crime, ensuring a safer environment for all. Education has seen improvements with the implementation of policies aimed at enhancing access and quality of education for all students. Worker’s welfare has been prioritized with timely payment of salaries and benefits, boosting morale and productivity. Additionally, infrastructure development projects are underway, promising better connectivity and living standards for the people of Kogi State. Overall, Governor Ododo’s first 100 days reflect a commitment to progress and prosperity for the state.