The First Lady of Kogi State, Her Exellency. Hajia Sefinat Ododo, has extended her heartfelt gratitude to the people of Kogi State for their unwavering support throughout the recent court case involving her husband.
His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State.

In a moving statement, the First Lady expressed her profound appreciation to the citizens for their steadfast faith and encouragement during this challenging period.

She acknowledged that the collective strength and unity of the people played a crucial role in navigating the legal proceedings.

The support we have received from the people of Kogi State has been nothing short of extraordinary, said the First Lady. “Your prayers, your presence, and your belief in our leadership have been a source of immense strength.

The First Lady also took the opportunity to reaffirm her husband commitment to the state.

His Excellency Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo is deeply dedicated to the progress and prosperity of Kogi State.

I want to assure you that he will not disappoint the people who have placed their trust in him.With renewed resolve, the First Lady emphasized that the administration will continue to work diligently to meet the expectations of the people and advance the state’s development goals.

Together, we will overcome any obstacles and strive to achieve our shared vision for a better Kogi State, she concluded.

God blessed Kogi State
God blessed Nigeria

Ambassador Hajiya Hassiat Ozavize Suleiman is a businesswoman, politician, and humanitarian known for her grassroots mobilization and unwavering commitment to public service and community development. Her influence spans both local and state levels, particularly in her home Local Government Area of Okehi, Kogi State.

𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

Born on November 7, 1973, in Ihima, Okehi LGA, to Mallam Suleiman and Binta Odeh, Amb. Hajiya Suleiman was raised in a family that valued education and hard work. She attended LSMB Primary School, Obeiba Ihima, Kogi State, where her leadership qualities were recognized early. After graduating in 1984, she furthered her education at Government Girls Unity School, Oboroke. Amb. Suleiman earned an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in Business Studies from the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, and later obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Business Administration from the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Public Policy and Strategic Studies from Highestone Global University, Texas, USA.

𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀  

Following her mandatory National Youth Service at the Federal Ministry of Commerce in Abuja from 1999 to 2000, Amb. Suleiman pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Management at the University of Calabar, which she completed in 2002. She briefly worked with the Kogi State Civil Service at the state liaison office from 2003 to 2007 before transitioning into full-time international business, focusing on trade and general contracting. Alongside her business ventures, she remained active in politics and philanthropic activities.

𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀

Amb. Suleiman’s political journey gained momentum in 2011, with her leadership in mobilizing women and youth during the 2015 general elections through her organization, 𝘏𝘢𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘖𝘧 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘎𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘎𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 . Her political influence grew when she became the only woman on Kogi State’s 21-member Fund Raising Committee for President Buhari’s 2015 campaign. She also played an active role in the 𝘉𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘉𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘎𝘪𝘳𝘭𝘴  Campaign.

In 2017, she was appointed as an APC National Delegate from Okehi LGA and later served as Chairman of the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO). Her tenure was marked by recognition from the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development for her efforts in combating illegal mining and promoting community development. In the Kogi-East district of the state, her committee was instrumental in addressing and resolving conflicts in mining communities.

In 2019, she was appointed as the Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Mineral Resources Development Agency, a role she held until the end of her tenure. Currently, she works as a private consultant in the mining sector, as well as managing her other business ventures.

In September 2024, Amb. Suleiman was appointed by His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman-Ododo, as the Special Adviser on Strategic Investment and Liaison with Federal Agencies, in recognition of her strengths and efforts toward the development of the state and the betterment of her people.

𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗽𝘆 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗼𝗰𝗮𝗰𝘆

Amb. Suleiman is a passionate advocate for women and youth empowerment. She founded the 𝘈𝘴𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘖𝘧 𝘚𝘶𝘣𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 to support economic independence for women and initiated various programs to uplift rural communities. Her efforts have included providing sewing and grinding machines to women across Okehi LGA to promote entrepreneurship. Her philanthropy extends to supporting widows, orphans, and the needy in Abuja and across Kogi State.

𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

In recognition of her leadership, humanitarian services, and youth mentorship efforts, Amb. Suleiman has received several awards, including:

– The Leadership Excellence and Nation Building Heroine Award by BOJ TV 

– The International Ambassador for Peace Award 

– The Role Model Award by Greenland News Magazine 

𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲

Amb. Suleiman is a mother of two and a mentor to many. Her dedication to social change and community development remains evident through her continued work in both the public and private sectors.

Following her recent appointment as Special Adviser on Strategic Investment and Federal Agencies by Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Ambassador Hassiat Ozavize Suleiman has expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve the state in this capacity.

In an official statement, Amb. Suleiman extended her appreciation to key figures who have supported her throughout her career and reaffirmed her commitment to the role. She said:

“I am deeply honored and grateful to accept the appointment as Special Adviser on Strategic Investment and Federal Agencies. I sincerely thank His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman-Ododo, for the confidence reposed in me to serve in this capacity.

I also wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, former Governor Yahaya Bello, for his enduring support and guidance throughout my career. My gratitude extends to the Chief of Staff to His Excellency Governor Ahmed Usman-Ododo, Hon. Ali Bello, and the leader of Okehi Local Government, Barr. Ozigi Deedat, for their invaluable support and encouragement.

I assure His Excellency and the entire citizens of Kogi State of my unwavering commitment to perform my duties with dedication, integrity, and to the best of my abilities. I look forward to contributing positively to the strategic development of our beloved state and ensuring effective collaboration with relevant federal agencies. It’s time to tap into the available resources at the federal level for the benefit of our youth in particular, and for the indigenes of Kogi State in general.

Your Excellency Sir, thank you once again for this opportunity to serve Kogi State under your able leadership.”

Amb. Suleiman’s appointment is seen as a significant step in boosting the state’s strategic investments and strengthening ties with federal agencies, which are vital for the continued growth and development of Kogi State.

In a move aimed at bolstering strategic development and enhancing collaboration with federal agencies, Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has appointed Hajiya Hassiat Ozavize Suleiman as Special Adviser on Strategic Investment and Liason with Federal Agencies. The appointment letter was presented to her at the office of the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State in Lokoja.

Hajiya Hassiat, who brings a wealth of experience from her tenure as the Chairman of the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) as well as Executive Chairman of Kogi State Mineral Resources Development Agency in the previous administration, expressed her deep gratitude to Governor Ododo for the trust placed in her.

In her remarks after receiving the appointment letter, Hajiya Hassiat stated, “I am deeply honored by this appointment and sincerely thank His Excellency, Governor Ododo, for entrusting me with this significant responsibility. I am committed to utilizing my experience and expertise to contribute positively to the strategic development of our state and to ensure effective collaboration with federal agencies for the betterment of ur youth, and citizens as a whole.”

She further emphasized her dedication to carrying out her duties with the highest level of integrity and diligence, promising to work tirelessly in supporting the Governor’s vision for Kogi State. She also expressed appreciation to His Excellency, Former Governor Yahaya Bello, as well as other eminent fellow appointees for their continued support.

Hajiya Hassiat’s appointment is expected to enhance the state’s strategic investments and foster stronger ties with federal institutions, which are critical to the socioeconomic development of Kogi State.

Hajiya Hassiat has previously been recognized for her leadership and humanitarian services, having received various awards, including the Leadership Excellence and Nation Building Heroine Award and the International Ambassador for Peace Award. Her appointment as Special Adviser is seen as a strategic move to leverage her vast experience for the benefit of Kogi State.

HON. HAJIA SAFIYAT SADIQ OHUNENE HAILS AND CONGRATULATES HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR ODODO AHMED USMAN ON HIS SUPREME COURT VICTORY.

Hon. Hajia Safiyat Sadiq Ohunene, Senior Special Assistant on woman affairs to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman has heartily congratulated the Governor on the affirmation of his victory by the supreme Court of Nigeria. The Nigerian apex court displayed high level of justice and judicial excellence to officially confirmed His Excellency Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman as the rightful winner of the gubernatorial election held in Kogi State on the November 11, 2023 to put to rest all legal proceedings regarding the election.

Hon. Safiyat who expressed her joy on the State’s legal development asserted that putting an end to the battle will significantly help His Excellency Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman to continue to be focused in his drive and determination to offer purposeful leadership and good governance to the people of the State who have duly elected him.

Hon. Safiyat also used the medium to commend Kogites for their support, urging them to sustain the relationship for the State’s overall interest. She reassured them of continued progress and growth in the State under the amiable leadership of His Excellency Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman.

Hon. Safiyat had also expressed her unalloyed gratitude and appreciation to the wife of the governor, Her Excellency Hajia Sefinat Ododo Ahmed Usman for the role played in ensuring she gained the appointment to serve the State in this capacity, promised she will perform superlatively and will not betray the trust reposed in her.

Hon. Safiyat prayed to seek Allah’s guidance on the governor and also wished him success in his administration.

Once again, congratulations, Your Excellency.

Signed: Comrade Muhammed Omadivi
CEO OMC TV.

FOR:

HON. HAJIA SAFIYAT SADIQ SADIQ

PRESS RELEASE

The Federal Government has taken a significant step towards enhancing the effectiveness of its whistleblowing policy by developing a draft bill to provide legal backing and protection for whistleblowers. This move aims to address the challenges hindering the policy’s implementation and encourage more individuals to report corruption and misconduct in the conduct of       government businesses.

Speaking at a one-day sensitization workshop on the implementation of the whistleblowing policy in Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun emphasized the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance.

He noted that the policy has already shown promise, with significant recoveries made since its inception in 2016.

HM Edun informed that the draft bill  being prepared, which is expected to be presented to the National Assembly, seeks to provide a robust legal framework for the protection of whistleblowers and ensure that reports are handled with confidentiality and prompt action.

He said that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration is committed to ensuring that the policy is pursued with strict compliance with the rule of law to achieve transparency and accountability in governance.

The whistleblowing policy, according to him, has recovered funds totalling N83,019,178,375.86; $609,083,391.91;
5,494,743.71 Euros between 2017 and 2023.

*However, the government acknowledges that more needs to be done to encourage Nigerians to own the fight against corruption and report financial misappropriation,* Edun said

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Permanent Secretary Special Duties, Federal Ministry of Finance Mr Okokon Ekanem Udo stated that the Whistleblowing policy, since its inception in December 2016, has proven to be one of the veritable tools in uncovering corrupt practices within the public and private sectors. It is aimed at empowering citizens to report to the relevant authorities about identified misappropriation of public funds and other fraudulent activities, thereby contributing immensely towards institutionalisation of transparency and accountability in governance.

However, like other policies of government, Udo said, the implementation of the policy has encountered some challenges. *At the initial stage, there was wide-spread enthusiasm on the part of Nigerians about the introduction of the policy. The momentum and popularity that heralded its introduction need to be reinforced and sustained* he said.

He informed that the sensitization workshop is designed not only to deepen our understanding of Whistleblowing policy in Nigeria but also to foster cooperation among the key stakeholders, which include the implementing team, the Civil Society Organisations, as well as members of the media.

In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Finance, Mrs Lydia Shehu Jafiya, said that it is imperative to focus on strengthening the protection of whistleblowers and safeguard their identities.  This, she said, will encourage more individuals to come forward and contribute to the fight against corruption and misconduct.

The Permanent Secretary, who was represented by the Ministry’s Director of Human Resources Mr Olusola Dada
also observed the need for improving Reporting Mechanism so as to make reporting channels more accessible, user-friendly, and effective. *It is essential that these mechanisms not only facilitate the reporting of concerns but also ensure that those concerns are addressed promptly and transparently.*, she said

Mrs Jafiya emphasized that the journey towards an effective Whistleblowing regime is a collaborative effort. *Each of us has a role to play in nurturing an environment where integrity and accountability thrive. Let us take the knowledge and enthusiasm generated today and translate it into concrete actions that drive positive change*, Jafiya stressed

With the re-invigoration of the Whistleblowing
policy, the government aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public finances and preserve the country’s assets.

The draft bill is a significant step towards achieving this goal and demonstrates the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and promoting good governance.

The one day sensitization workshop is themed: *Issues, Challenges and Way Forward*

Signed
Mohammed Manga *FCIA*
Director, Information and Public Relations
August 28, 2024

The National Commissioner and CEO of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, inaugurated the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the forthcoming Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA-RADPA) Conference and Annual General Meeting scheduled to hold in May, 2025 in Abuja. The inauguration took place at the NDPC office in Abuja.

Through the NDPC, the Federal Republic of Nigeria is set to host the 10th edition of this prestigious conference and AGM. This event will gather esteemed delegates and participants from across Africa and beyond, including Heads of Data Protection Authorities, data protection experts, multinational corporations, development partners, and foreign investors. This aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 8th-point agenda in the area of economic growth and job creation.

In his inaugural address, Dr Olatunji expressed his appreciation to the LOC members for their enthusiasm and willingness to collaborate with the Commission to ensure the success of the event. He underscored the significance of the conference, describing it as the largest event in Africa’s data protection and privacy ecosystem. “This event is not about the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (FMCIDE) or the NDPC alone, but about Nigeria. That is why we have selected committee members from diverse sectors,” he said.

The LOC comprises representatives from various sectors, including FMCIDE, NCC, NIPOST, NIGCOMSAT, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the World Bank represented by ID4D Project office, Digital Transformation Center, European Union, Meta, Google, AWS, Microsoft, Management Edge, ISACA, MasterCard, Office of Data Protection Commissioner, Kenya, and the media amongst others.

Dr Olatunji urged the committee members to work collaboratively and exchange ideas to bring the world to Nigeria and ensure the success of the event. He emphasized that the conference will be a crucial platform to showcase Nigeria as a peaceful, safe, and attractive investment destination. “We must highlight Nigeria’s positive image and prove that Nigeria is a good and hospitable country.” he added.

He noted that Nigeria’s hosting of the NADPA-RADPA conference underscores the NDPC’s traction within a short period of establishment and the nation’s commitment to data protection and digital innovation on the global stage. He said “though we started later than some in the data protection and privacy ecosystem, we have already made significant strides, even at the global level.”

The Network of African Data Protection Authorities (NADPA-RADPA), established in Ouagadougou in September 2016, consists of 23 Data Protection Authorities and others with observer status from across Africa. Its primary objective is to provide a platform for exchanges and cooperation among its members while amplifying Africa’s voice in global partnerships.

Itunu Dosekun
Head, Media Unit, NDPC

Her Excellency, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, the First Lady of Kogi State, is a paragon of virtues, wisdom, and exemplary leadership. She has been a role model and inspiration to all Kogi citizens, particularly women. Her encouragement of human values and promotion of our cultural heritage, which symbolizes peace and unity, is highly commendable.

Her selfless service to humanity and stewardship have earned her numerous certificates of excellence from various organizations. The Kogi State Market Women Association has also honored her for her inclusive leadership and empowerment of women.

Her positive impacts , commitment, and dedication to the progressive governance of Kogi State under His Excellency Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman are applauded. We pray for Allah’s guidance and wisdom to continue leading her in this noble endeavor, ensuring the betterment of Kogi citizens and the states’s future progress.

KOGI STATE GOVERNMENT

PRESS RELEASE

1. Kogi State Government condemns in the strongest of terms, the unwarranted attack on Alh. Muritala Yakubu Ajaka at the Supreme Court, moments after the determination of the electoral litigations involving the Governors of  Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa States.

2. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has described the conduct of the hoodlums as barbaric, uncivilized and a grave danger to the institution of justice. He urged Nigerians from all walks of life to eschew resort to self help.

3. As a Government, we implore the law enforcement agencies to fish out the perpetrators and make them face the full wrath of the law to serve as a deterrent to others as well as protect the integrity and safety of our court environments across the country. 

4. We urge all Nigerians to support the path of constitutionalism and unity, which are the core values of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. We all must support his lofty policies and values for the progress and development of our dear nation.

Kingsley Femi Fanwo
Commissioner for Information and Communications

25/08/2024