Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to peace, security, and inclusive development as the foundation for sustainable growth in the state and across Nigeria.
The Governor made this known while receiving participants of the National Defence College Course 34 Study Tour at the Government House, Lokoja, on Tuesday. The study tour, brought together senior officers and policy experts from across the nation and other African countries.
The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the visit as timely and strategic, noting that the tour aligns closely with his administration’s priorities.
“Since assuming office, we have worked tirelessly to consolidate the security architecture inherited from our predecessor. We have strengthened collaboration with security agencies, empowered community policing structures, and leveraged technology to monitor flashpoints across our borders,” he said.
The Governor stressed that his government’s investments in infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, and solid minerals are aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity by reducing poverty and unemployment.
“Security and development are interdependent. That is why our administration is building an economy that supports peace and productivity through initiatives such as the Kogi Enterprise Development Agency and youth empowerment programs,” he added.
He commended the National Defence College for its strategic role in shaping national policy and preparing leaders for complex security and governance challenges, describing Kogi State as a “microcosm of Nigeria, diverse, strategic, and rich in potential.”
Governor Ododo urged participants to use the tour as an opportunity to gain deeper insights into the relationship between governance, security, and development at the state level.
“I encourage you to engage deeply, observe critically, and leave Kogi with a richer understanding of how good governance drives stability and growth,” he said.
Earlier, while setting the tone for the meeting, the team lead and Provost of the National Defence College, Prof. Adam Okene Ahmed, said the course 34 chose Kogi State for its strategic importance in both security and development matters. He noted that the study tour focuses on “mineral resources and how they impact the lives of the people,” adding that their findings will be compiled into a report to be presented to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for policy consideration and intervention.
Prof. Okene commended Governor Ododo for ensuring stability in Kogi’s governance system, describing the state’s peaceful political transition as exemplary. He said, “Unlike other states where transitions are tense and divisive, Kogi has remained calm and forward looking. The government here is clearly security-conscious, especially given the state’s borders with about ten other states.”
In her brief remarks, the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Pastor (Mrs.) Folashade Arike Ayoade, Ph.D, urged the team to convey to the President that Kogi State is richly endowed with vast mineral resources that deserve federal attention and investment. She noted that harnessing these resources would not only advance Kogi’s economic prosperity but also contribute significantly to national development.
“Kogi’s economic liberation means Nigeria’s liberation”, she added.
