Ododo Administration Deepens Transparency with Maiden Media Report, Vows Continued Media Collaboration »

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has unveiled the state’s first-ever Annual Media Performance Report. The report, covering media engagements from January 2024 to January 2025, was launched at a landmark event in Lokoja aimed at institutionalizing open governance.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, Governor Ododo described the report as a turning point in the administration’s communication strategy. He emphasized that good governance extends beyond project delivery to ensuring that citizens understand the rationale and processes behind government actions.

“The launch of this report signals a new era of communication. We are committed to building a system that keeps our citizens informed, engaged, and connected,” the governor stated.

The report documented over 6,000 media mentions across print, broadcast, and digital platforms during the review period (January 27th, 2024 – January 27th, 2025) an indication, according to the governor, of the administration’s consistent and open communication. He further noted that the quality of media coverage, sentiment, and impact on public discourse are just as crucial as the volume.

Governor Ododo commended the collaboration among various ministries, departments, agencies, and the Office of the Special Adviser on Media, whose collective effort he said was instrumental to the success of the initiative. He expressed appreciation to media professionals for their indispensable role in keeping the public informed, reaffirming the government’s commitment to openness and accountability.

“This report is not just a record; it is a guide for refining our communication strategies. It shows that our messages are reaching the public, fostering trust, and positively shaping the narrative around governance in Kogi State,” he added.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Ismaila Isah, explained that the report serves as both a milestone and a learning tool. According to him, the administration’s media engagements generated an Advertising Value Equivalent (AVE) of over N309 million and a Public Relations Value (PRV) of more than N1.5 billion, underscoring the effectiveness and credibility of its communication efforts.

Isah praised journalists and media practitioners as “unsung heroes” who have not only amplified government messages but also upheld accountability. He urged media stakeholders to view the report as a resource for strengthening future collaboration.

“This report is not the end but the beginning of a renewed partnership between the government and the media, built on mutual respect, public service, and the shared vision of a better Kogi State,” he concluded.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Federated Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi State Council, Mr. Michael Abu, lauded Governor Ododo for exceeding public expectations and described the report as a benchmark for other states.

Abu, who is also the publisher of The Nigeria Post, advocated for increased budgetary support to sustain future editions of the report. “This comprehensive and informative document reflects the remarkable work being done in Kogi State. I commend the governor’s media team for this laudable initiative,” he said.

He further called on the government to improve recognition and reward systems for media practitioners, noting that their contributions to enhancing the state’s image are often underappreciated.

On his part, the NUJ Vice President (Zone D), Comrade MomohJimoh Adeiza, urged the state government to prioritize the welfare of journalists, emphasizing their indispensable role in the democratic process and in driving societal development.

The event was attended by top government functionaries and media stakeholders. It also served as a reminder of Kogi State’s journey since its creation from parts of Kwara and Benue States on August 27, 1991.