Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has empowered over 10,000 farmers with inputs and renovated and equipped 150 schools with modern facilities within his one year in office.
The Secretary to the Kogi State Government (SSG), Dr Folashade Ayoade, stated this on Thursday at a two-day “Kogi State Leadership and Ministerial Briefing” in Lokoja, tagged: “The Advanced New Direction: From Continuity and Consolidation to Strategic Development.”
According to Ayoade, in less than a year of leadership, Ododo has demonstrated an undeniable commitment to the growth and transformation of Kogi.
She stressed that Ododo’s visionary policies and strategic execution had already set the state on a remarkable sustainable development trajectory.
“Let us take a moment to reflect on these significant achievements that underscore his great leadership feat.
“Through the Agricultural Expansion Initiative, over 10,000 farmers have been empowered with access to improved seeds, fertilizers, and mechanised equipment.
“This has resulted in a 25 percent increase in agricultural productivity, positioning Kogi as a leading producer of staple crops like cassava and rice.
“Establishing the Kogi State Agroprocessing Centers has also created opportunities for over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs, enhancing the value chain for local farmers.
“In infrastructure, Ododo’s administration has prioritised connectivity and access.
“The just completed construction of the GYB Junction-Zone8 Roundabout-Crusher roads, a critical project with a very high interconnectivity value, is set to ease traffic congestion and improve transportation efficiency in Lokoja.”
“Furthermore, several erosion management projects across the three senatorial districts have been executed, directly impacting the lives of over 300,000 residents and facilitating the seamless movement of goods and services across the state.
“Through the Comprehensive School Revitalisation program, over 150 schools have been renovated, equipped with modern facilities, and staffed with qualified teachers.
“Enrollment rates have risen by 18 percent, and Kogi students’ performances in national examinations have improved by 12 percent.
“These efforts signify Ododo’s unwavering commitment to building a knowledgeable and skilled workforce for the future,” Ayoade said.
She added that economic empowerment had also been a focal point, saying that over 240 young artisans were presently undergoing training in various skills at the Nigeria-Korean Friendship Institute.
This, she said, has fostered innovation and reduced unemployment.
Ayoade added that the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) has increased significantly within a year, reflecting the effectiveness of Ododo’s fiscal policies and commitment to financial sustainability.
“These achievements are a testament to the advanced New Direction in which Kogi is heading.
“As we convene for this retreat, let us recognise that our collective efforts must now shift toward shaping a veritable future for our state.
“This retreat offers a unique opportunity to harness our diverse expertise, chart a strategic roadmap, and set actionable goals to address pressing challenges while maximising opportunities.
“The retreat’s objectives—enhancing leadership and ministerial capacity, fostering economic growth, addressing infrastructure needs, and promoting human capital development—are pivotal for achieving our vision of a prosperous Kogi.
“Through policy alignment, inter-ministerial collaboration, and innovative solutions, we will lay the groundwork for sustained growth and development.
“As we embark on this journey, let us remain guided by the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.
“These values are not only integral to good governance but also essential for building public trust and ensuring the success of our initiatives
“Together, we can drive the transformative agenda that Kogi deserves,” Ayoade said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that participants at the retreat include: Kogi Head of Service, Commissioners, Heads of Agencies, Permanent Secretaries, House of Assembly members, and other political appointees, among others.
(NAN)
