Governor hails progress, acknowledges challenges, and urges citizens to safeguard the state’s greatness
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has congratulated citizens of the Confluence State on the 34th anniversary of its creation, calling on all to renew their commitment to peace, unity, and development.
In a message to mark the anniversary on Wednesday, the Governor described the occasion as not just a celebration but also a moment of sober reflection on the state’s journey since its creation on August 27, 1991, when the military administration of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida carved it out from parts of Kwara and Benue States.
Governor Ododo acknowledged that Kogi has faced daunting challenges over the past three decades but emphasized that the state has also recorded remarkable progress in critical areas such as road infrastructure, healthcare, education, and rural development.
“At 34, we stand at a defining threshold,” the Governor stated. “Roads are being built, schools remodeled, hospitals revitalized, and rural communities are beginning to feel the impact of good governance. We may not yet be where we desire to be, but we are certainly no longer where we used to be.”
He noted that despite the hurdles, the resilience of the people and the vision of successive administrations have laid a foundation for growth and provided hope for an even brighter future.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Governor Ododo said he remains dedicated to building a state where every child has access to quality education, healthcare services are available to all, industries thrive, and agriculture guarantees food security and economic prosperity.
The Governor stressed that purposeful governance must translate into tangible benefits for the people, especially at the grassroots, noting that his administration is working to ensure that development reaches every corner of the state.
“As we celebrate 34 years of existence, let us renew our pledge to keep Kogi great. Together, we will strengthen our unity, deepen our progress, and hand over to future generations a state greater than the one we inherited,” he affirmed.
Governor Ododo urged citizens to take pride in their heritage as people of Kogi State, popularly known as the Confluence State, owing to the historic meeting point of Rivers Niger and Benue in Lokoja, the state capital.
He reminded the people that the strength of Kogi lies in its diversity, with the three major ethnic groups, Igala, Ebira, and Okun (Yoruba), alongside many minority groups, contributing to the state’s rich cultural identity and resilience.
“Peace, unity, and hard work are essential if we must achieve the Kogi of our dreams. Our greatness lies in our collective destiny and shared responsibility to build a future that reflects the sacrifices of our founding fathers,” the Governor added.
Kogi State occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s geography and economy. Bordered by 10 states and the Federal Capital Territory, it is regarded as the “gateway state” to northern and southern Nigeria. Lokoja, the state capital, holds historical significance as the first administrative headquarters of modern Nigeria under British colonial rule.
The state is blessed with vast agricultural potential, rich mineral resources such as limestone, coal, and iron ore, and a vibrant youthful population. Over the years, Kogi has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s industrial development, hosting strategic establishments such as the Ajaokuta Steel Company and Obajana Cement Plant, one of the largest cement factories in Africa.
Governor Ododo concluded his anniversary message with a reassurance that his administration will continue to prioritize the welfare of the people while pursuing policies that promote inclusiveness, development, and prosperity.
He wished all citizens a Happy 34th Anniversary, pledging to spend every day of his tenure working to strengthen the foundations of a greater Kogi State
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