Umahi unveils FG’s plan to rehabilitate, construct Federal roads in Kogi, congratulates Ododo on election victory

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The Hon. Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi, has disclosed that his ministry has received express approval from the presidency to commence federal roads construction/rehabilitation in Kogi State.

He also outlined the modalities being explored to expedite the works without delay.

Umahi spoke during a visit to him by the Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, and Governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo, at his office in Mabushi, Abuja.

During the visit, Governor Bello expressed gratitude to Senator Umahi for his support and solidarity, contributing to the victory of the Governor-elect in the November 11 governorship election in Kogi State.

Governor Bello expressed confidence that Ododo, upon his inauguration on January 27, 2024, would continue to bring significant infrastructure development to Kogi State, enhancing the pride of the people and the All Progressives Congress.

In response, Senator Umahi congratulated the Governor-elect, emphasizing that his victory reflected the people’s desire in Kogi State for continuity and consolidation. He commended Governor Bello’s achievements in road construction, education, health infrastructure, and other critical areas, expressing confidence that Ododo would build on these successes.

He urged the governor-elect to uphold the trust placed in him by the people and the party, ensuring the fulfillment of his campaign promises.

He also commended Governor Bello for his unwavering support for the ruling party’s growth at both the state and federal levels, describing governor Bello’s commitment to the success of the APC-led Federal Government as unprecedented.

He commended Governor Bello’s efforts in providing the dividends of democracy to the people of his state, noting that his effort would be more appreciated after office.

The minister revealed that ongoing projects, such as the Ganaja road rehabilitation, would be concrete-based, aligning with the Federal Government’s policy to ensure durable roads in Nigeria.

Earlier, the Governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo, in his assurance to Senator Umahi, reiterated his commitment to the trust bestowed upon him by the people. He expressed gratitude for the minister’s support and pledged to strengthen the existing relationship between the state and the federal government through the Ministry of Works.

Ododo assured the minister of his administration’s readiness to actualize the infrastructure master plan for Kogi as laid down by the current administration.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
November 30, 2023

Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, Governor-elect, Ododo Visit First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu

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Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, and Governor-elect Ahmed Usman Ododo paid a courtesy visit to the esteemed First Lady of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the State House, Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday.

Governor Bello conveyed their heartfelt gratitude to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her instrumental support in mobilizing women and other crucial stakeholders to vote for Governor-elect Ahmed Usman Ododo during the November 11 governorship election in Kogi State. He expressed confidence that Ododo, after his inauguration on January 27, 2024, would bring pride to Kogi women, the party, and the people of the state.

In response, the First Lady congratulated Ododo, highlighting that his victory showcased the people of Kogi State’s desire for continuity and consolidation. She urged the governor-elect to uphold the trust placed in him by the people and the party, ensuring the fulfillment of his campaign promises.

Governor-elect Ahmed Usman Ododo, in his assurance to Senator Oluremi Tinubu, affirmed his commitment to the trust bestowed upon him by the people. He expressed gratitude for her support, emphasizing the pivotal role that women would play in his administration. Areas of focus include poverty reduction, primary healthcare delivery, and addressing infant and maternal health concerns in the state.

Ododo, who received his certificate of return on November 18 from the Independent National Electoral Commission, embarked on a series of ‘thank you’ visits to stakeholders who significantly contributed to the success of his election.

On November 12, 2023, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared Ahmed Usman Ododo the winner of the November 11 governorship election, securing the highest number of lawful votes at 446,237, surpassing other candidates.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
November 28, 2023

Senator Kyari Ignites Hope for Food Security at the Launch of the 2023 National Agricultural Show.

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In a decisive step towards addressing Nigeria’s food security concerns, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Honorable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, officially inaugurated the 2023 National Agricultural Show on Tuesday, November 21, 2023.

Held at the National Agricultural Showground in Nassarawa State, the event unfolded under the theme “Towards the Realization of Presidential Declaration of Emergency on Food Security.

Senator Kyari, representing President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, underscored the paramount importance of the agricultural sector in alleviating poverty, creating job opportunities, and fostering inclusiveness among youth and women.

The Minister revealed that the show aimed to spotlight Nigeria’s abundant agricultural potential, consolidate past achievements, identify sector challenges, and pave the way forward for agricultural development.

During his address, Senator Kyari affirmed the government’s dedication to aligning agricultural programs with the four Presidential priorities, emphasizing the crucial role of agriculture in ensuring food security and resilient food systems.

He assured stakeholders of President Tinubu’s unwavering political will to transform the agricultural sector, making food security the top priority of his agenda.

The Minister outlined immediate plans, including the development of a standardized framework for agricultural operations in Nigeria and a comprehensive stakeholder analysis.

He stressed the importance of collaboration with other ministries, departments, agencies, and state governments to achieve national food security objectives.

In his welcome address, Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule, represented by Deputy Governor Emmanuel Akabe, highlighted the event’s critical nature in restoring the nation’s past glory for achieving food security.

He commended the distribution of fertilizer to households, adequate irrigation, and arable land for a variety of crops.

The National Coordinator of the National Agricultural Foundation of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Negedu, anticipates that the 2023 show will feature a grand opening ceremony, farmers’ parade, agricultural exhibitions, seminars, interactive sessions, and displays of assorted agricultural equipment.

Negedu encouraged stakeholders to leverage the friendly environment of the show to establish lasting business contacts and relationships.

A notable highlight of the event was Senator Kyari’s inspection of various agricultural products, signaling a tangible commitment to the promotion and development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Agriculture and Food Security Summit Postponed to Facilitate Dry Season Wheat Farming Kick-off.

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Stakeholders and Council Members Notified of Schedule Adjustment.

In a recent development, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has announced the postponement of the eagerly anticipated Agriculture and Food Security Summit, along with the National Council on Agriculture and Food Security Meeting, both initially slated for November 2023.

The decision to defer these significant events stems from the imperative to ensure a seamless launch of the Dry Season Wheat Farming initiative under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket Programme (NAGS-AP). This strategic move aims to address potential challenges and guarantee the successful implementation of the program.

With numerous key stakeholders and participants deeply involved in time-sensitive activities associated with the dry season wheat program, the Ministry deemed it necessary to reschedule the Summit and Council Meeting to accommodate their commitments.

Mr. Kingsley Osadolor, the Technical Advisor (Strategic Communication) at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, signed the official statement released on the 20th of November, 2023. He emphasized that the new dates for both the Food Security Summit and the National Council on Agriculture and Food Security Meeting will be communicated in due course.

This announcement follows matters raised during the question and answer session at the end of the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Ministry and John Deere earlier today. The Ministry remains committed to keeping all stakeholders and Council members informed as developments unfold.

Stay tuned for further updates on the rescheduled dates of these crucial events shaping the trajectory of agricultural growth in the nation.

Historic Win in Kogi State: Dr. Maryam J Ogundepo Extends Congratulations to Governor-Elect and Deputy Governor-Elect

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By Maymunah Zubair

In a momentous occasion today, Dr. Maryam J Ogundepo, President of Achana Legacy Foundation and Women Entrepreneurs in Nigeria and Diaspora (WEND) Network, congratulated Kogi State Governor-Elect Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman and Deputy Governor-Elect Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu. The felicitations followed the duo’s receipt of their official Certificates of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission in Lokoja.

This victory is hailed as historic for Kogi State, and Dr. Ogundepo commended the elected officials for their unwavering dedication and service to the people. Acknowledging the pivotal moment, she expressed optimism that the incoming administration would not only maintain but also improve upon the accomplishments of the incumbent Governor Yahaya Bello.

During the recent campaign period, Dr. Ogundepo’s women’s empowerment initiatives played a crucial role in fostering active participation among women in the electoral process across the State. The Achana Legacy Foundation and WEND Network diligently worked to empower women, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping the political landscape and championing inclusivity in governance. The tangible impact of these efforts manifested in increased women’s participation at the polls, contributing to a more diverse and representative political environment.

As Kogi State anticipates the transition to a new administration, Dr. Ogundepo remains hopeful that the Governor-Elect and Deputy Governor-Elect will prioritize women’s empowerment and build upon the positive trajectory set by Governor Yahaya Bello. The Achana Legacy Foundation and WEND Network convener expresses optimism about the incoming administration’s commitment to advancing the well-being of citizens and fostering a prosperous, inclusive state. The collaborative efforts between these women’s empowerment initiatives and the incoming leadership are poised to make significant contributions to the continued development and progress of Kogi State.

Hajia Hassiat Ozavize Suleiman Extends Congratulations to Kogi Governor-Elect Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman

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By Maymunah Zubair

The Executive Chairman of Kogi State Mineral Resources Development Agency, Hajia Hassiat Ozavize Suleiman has conveyed heartfelt congratulations on behalf of her supporters to Governor-Elect Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman and Deputy Comrade Joel Oyibo Salifu on receiving their official Certificates of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Lokoja, today.

Popularly referred to as as 𝘏𝘒𝘫π˜ͺ𝘒 π˜”π˜π˜™π˜Œπ˜”π˜Šπ˜– for her work as Chairman of the State Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee, the grassroots politician from Ihima – Okehi LGA expressed confidence in Alhaji Ododo’s capacity to continue elevating Kogi State, citing the established development template of Governor Yahaya Bello’s New Direction administration over the past seven years.

“I was confident in the APC’s success in the recent election due to our robust issue-based campaigns, highlighting Governor Yahaya Bello’s verifiable achievements.

“With 446,237 votes, the people of Kogi have spoken, entrusting the mandate to the most qualified APC candidate. I urge all Kogi State supporters to unite with Alhaji Ododo in advancing the state.” she said in a recent interview.

Hajia MIREMCO reassured Kogi’s youth, women, and citizens in general; emphasizing that the incoming administration will maintain the recognition and support they received under Governor Yahaya Bello’s leadership.

Nigeria Advances Science and Innovation with Historic MOU Signing

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By Maymunah Zubair

In a groundbreaking move for science, technology, and innovation, the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) and IDEA Linkage LTD (Innovation Development and Entrepreneurship Africa Linkage LTD) have officially inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the Nigeria Science Technology and Innovation TV (NSTI TV). The historic signing took place at the NASRDA headquarters, with key figures in attendance.

Dr. Halilu Shaba, Director-General, NARSDA & Prof. Solomon Nwaka, MD, IDEA Linkage LTD

The ceremony saw the Director General of NASRDA, Halilu Shaba, and IDEA Linkage LTD’s CEO, Prof. Solomon Nwaka, leading the charge. Prof. Nwaka expressed his enthusiasm, emphasizing the rich history of IDEA TV, a subsidiary of IDEA Linkage LTD and highlighting the critical importance of collaborative partnerships with government agencies. He also hinted at bonus investment opportunities arising from this venture.

DG Shaba, in his remarks, extended gratitude to all participants and acknowledged Prof. Nwaka’s significant contributions to COVID, science, and medical research. He assured the audience of a worthwhile investment, noting that NSTI’s impact extends beyond Nigeria’s space sector, reaching across the continent and even globally.

Dr. Felix Ale, Director of Media & Corporate Communications at NASRDA, was appointed as the sub-committee chairman tasked with fleshing out the TV station and acquiring necessary licenses. He recounted the history of NSTI TV and its recent milestones, including obtaining provisional and full licenses from the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) a few months ago. Dr. Ale expressed appreciation for DG Shaba’s unwavering support and concluded with a vote of thanks, emphasizing the commitment to delivering the best in the continent.

This collaboration marks a significant stride toward fostering public-private partnerships in advancing science, technology, and innovation in Nigeria. The joint venture, operating under the name “NSTI TV – the IDEA Television of the Century,” is a pioneering initiative that addresses the realms of science, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and development, with potential benefits reaching far beyond the borders of Nigeria and into the broader African landscape.

Social Plus Africa CEO Applauds Usman Ododo’s Victory as Kogi State Governor-Elect.

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The Chief Executive Officer of Social Plus Africa Communications Ltd extends congratulations to Usman Ododo, the Governor-elect of Kogi State.

Commending the outgoing Governor, Yahaya Bello, for his dedicated efforts in preserving his legacy, Mr. Momoh conveyed his sentiments through a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary, Hajiya Abdullahi Mulikatu.

Following the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Usman Ododo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, emerged victorious in the governorship election with a total of 446,237 votes.

The declaration was made by the state’s returning officer, Johnson Urama, at the INEC collation centre in Lokoja at approximately 10:24 p.m.

Ododo secured victories in 13 out of the 21 local government areas in the state, while the SDP candidate, Murtala Ajaka, was declared the runner-up with 259,052 votes, winning in eight local governments.

Dino Melaye, the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, secured the third position with 46,362 votes but did not win in any local government.

#KogiDecides2023: INEC Adjourns Collation of Kogi Gov Results to 7pm.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission has adjourned the collation of the Kogi State governorship election results to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Results in 18 Local Government Areas have been released, remaining three LGAs.

However, the INEC state Returning Officer, Prof. Johnson Urama, announced the postponement.

Upon resumption, the remaining results would be released and the winner would be announced.

#KogiDecides2023: Ododo Leads as APC Clears 11 LGAs

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The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the Kogi State governorship election, Usman Ododo, is currently leading other candidates in the race.

This is as the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, has officially announced the results from 18 out of the 21 Local Government Areas of the state on Sunday.

The LGAs where election results had been collated and declared included Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ankpa, Bassa, Dekina, Idah, Ijumu, Kabba-Bunu, Kogi, Mopamuro, Ofu, Okehi, Okene, Olamaboro, Omala, Yagba East and Yagba West, while the results from only one ward in Ogori Magongo LGA was received and announced.

From the 18 LGA results already declared so far, Ododo is leading with 417,166 votes, the Social Democratic Party candidate, Murtala Ajaka, is trailing far behind with 208,503 votes, while the People’s Democratic Party candidate, Dino Melaye, is distantly behind with 41,925 votes.

The APC candidate won in 11 LGAs out of the 18 declared so far, namely; Adavi, Ajaokuta, Bassa, Ijumu, Kabba-Bunu, Kogi, Mopamuro, Ogori Magongo, Okehi, Okene, and Yagba West, while the SDP candidate won in Ankpa, Idah, Dekina, Ofu, Olamaboro and Omala LGAs, with ADC candidate Leke Abejide winning only the Yagba East LGA, so far.

It is expected that the outstanding results from Ibaji, Lokoja, and Igalamela-Odolu LGAs will be announced once the collation center reconvenes by 4 p.m. for the conclusion of the exercise on Sunday.