As part of his grassroots engagement strategy, the Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, undertook a series of activities across Kogi State to mark the 2025 Eid-El-Kabir using the festive occasion to meetup with his constituents and mobilize support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
Prince Shuaibu arrived briefly in Lokoja on June 5, en route to his hometown in Ogbonicha, Ofu Local Government Area. His arrival was met with great enthusiasm as traditional praise singers, party loyalists, and well-wishers welcomed him warmly. Expressing gratitude to the cheering crowd, the Minister thanked them for their continued support, emphasizing that his appointment was a tribute to the legacy of his late father, former Governor Prince Abubakar Audu, and a reflection of President Tinubu’s trust in the people of Kogi.
“I came to spend Sallah with all of you to pass the message directly from Mr. President,” Prince Shuaibu said. “He sees all of you, appreciates all of you, and my appointment as Honourable Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is to honor the entire Igala race, the whole of Kogi State, and to remember our late father, our mentor, our leader, Prince Abubakar Audu.”.
He then visited Iboko, his late mother’s hometown, to pay homage and catch up with the community. Women, youth, and elders came out en masse to receive him. In his message, he acknowledged the role of women in nation-building and emphasized unity, love, and continued support for the APC across all levels of governance.
While in Ogbonicha, the minister paid a courtesy visit to the Oregon Attah and Paramount Ruler of Ogbonicha, Alhaji Tijani Audu, who offered royal blessings and expressed appreciation for the Minister’s ongoing service.
On June 6, the Minister observed the Eid-El-Kabir prayers at the Alloma Prayer Ground with his family and constituents. The Minister also hosted HRH Alhaji Akwu Aliyu Obaje, Chairman of the Ofu LGA Traditional Council of Chiefs, HRH Chief Matthew Idaikwo Onu Ugbologu of Emewe Abocho in Dekina Local Government Areas of Kogi State and others and later met with the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Elder Joel Salifu Oyibo, at his residence in Ejule for strategic discussions on the political future of Kogi East and the 2027 general elections.
During his visit, the Minister stopped by Government Girls College, Ogbonicha, where he expressed satisfaction with the school's management for their exemplary efforts in promoting quality education. He applauded the students for their flawless rendition of the newly adopted national anthem and took time to explain the rationale behind its change, as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He further assured the school of his continued support, stating that the federal government is committed to strengthening the educational sector, especially in rural areas.
Before proceeding to an interactive session with community stakeholders, the Minister also visited the Kogi State Eye Hospital, Ogbonicha, where he expressed strong displeasure over the absence of medical doctors and other healthcare personnel during his visit to a hospital.
Speaking during the inspection, the Minister lamented the poor state of healthcare delivery and assured the public of immediate steps to address the issue. He promised to liaise with the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, to strengthen and improve healthcare services for the benefit of the people.
He emphasized the importance of accessible and efficient healthcare, assuring that the federal and state governments will work together to ensure medical staff are available and facilities are properly equipped.
In a separate interview, the National President of the Ogbonicha Development Association, Prince Ogacheko, expressed profound gratitude to the Honourable Minister for the Salah visit. Speaking on behalf of the community, he pledged unwavering support and loyalty to the administration of President Tinubu and the government of Kogi State under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
“Come rain, come sunshine, Ogbonicha stands with the government. We pray for divine protection and wisdom for the Honourable Minister as he continues to drive progress in the steel sector,” Prince Ogacheko stated.
The political highlight of the celebration came on June 7, when Prince Shuaibu hosted an interactive session with key APC stakeholders at his country home in Ogbonicha. The meeting brought together a wide array of party chieftains including executive chairmen, women leaders, local government officials, legislators, and members of the Audu/Faleke Political Group.
In his keynote address, the minister reiterated President Tinubu’s achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda, citing progress in economic recovery, infrastructure, and the revival of the steel sector. He noted that state revenue allocations have significantly improved and that the administration’s reforms are beginning to reduce the cost of living and improve welfare.
He said, “As we enter 2027, ongoing projects led by President Tinubu will change Nigeria. Since assuming office, the administration has directed about 98% of our revenue toward repaying inherited loans. Despite this, state governments are receiving higher allocations than before, showing that Mr. President is taking bold steps to fix the economy.”
Addressing developments in the steel sector, he highlighted milestones in reviving the Ajaokuta Steel Company.
“We signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the original Russian equipment manufacturers for the first time in 45 years. We’re also exploring investments with China and other countries. Once Ajaokuta becomes functional, over 5,000 jobs will be created.”
He further declared:
“Ogbonicha is an APC stronghold. We must deliver 100 percent of the votes for President Tinubu in 2027.”
The event also featured the presentation of a Humanitarian Award to Prince Shuaibu by Arise Igala Magazine, in recognition of his developmental contributions and selfless service to the Igala people and the steel sector. The award was presented by Barr. John Adele (SAN).
A minute of silence was observed in honor of his late father, Prince Abubakar Audu, regarded as the founder of the APC in Kogi State.
Speakers at the event included Hon. Mohammed Lawal, Executive Chairman of Ofu LGA, who lauded the Minister’s leadership and party loyalty, and Hon. Rabiu Alfa, representing Ankpa constituency, who affirmed the region’s commitment to the APC and expressed optimism in President Tinubu’s continued impact on Kogi State.
The State Secretary of APC, Mr. Joshua Onoja, praised the Minister’s grassroots mobilization and urged continued unity among members. Hajiya Hauwa Aduku, Kogi State APC Women Leader, emphasized the importance of voting exclusively for APC in future elections, while Hon. Saidu Ahmadu Baryoil, House of Assembly Member representing Ofu, reaffirmed the region’s loyalty to the party.
As festivities concluded, Prince Shuaibu distributed food items and cash gifts to attendees as Sallah presented, reinforcing his commitment to community support and inclusive governance.
The interactive meeting not only solidified the Minister’s political influence in the region but also set the tone for APC’s strategic grassroots buildup towards 2027.
0 Comments