By Hon. Clement Daudu
Kogi Central has every reason to celebrate and appreciate our own son, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi (DAM), the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria. Some achievements are temporary, but others become lasting legacies. The commissioning of the Barefoot Renewable Energy College in Osara is one of those legacies.
This college was not sited in Osara by chance, and it is certainly not a fluke. It is a carefully thought-out and highly strategic project that will continue to benefit our people long after Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi has left office. Governments and public office holders come and go, but institutions like this remain for generations, creating opportunities, empowering people, and driving economic growth.
As if that is not enough, the same Renewable Energy Complex also houses the Green Hydrogen Research and Demonstration Pilot Plant, another world-class facility that places Kogi State, and particularly Kogi Central, on the global map of renewable energy research and innovation. These are not ordinary projects; they are investments in the future of our people.
Permit me to say it in our everyday street language: “Any day e reach your turn, carry the project go another man village go put.” That is exactly what Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi refused to do. Instead, he remembered home. He brought opportunities to his people while ensuring that the entire nation benefits. That singular decision deserves the appreciation of every son and daughter of Kogi Central because these world-class institutions will remain here, serving generations long after today’s leaders have left office.
At this point, sincere appreciation must also go to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support for projects that empower ordinary Nigerians. The establishment of this college aligns perfectly with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to equip Nigerians with practical skills, create employment opportunities, and improve livelihoods through sustainable development.
Equally deserving of commendation is His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, for providing the enabling environment that made this project a reality. From the commencement of the project to its successful commissioning, his administration demonstrated the cooperation and support necessary for such a landmark investment to be completed in Kogi State.
The massive turnout at the commissioning ceremony spoke volumes. It showed that DAM is genuinely loved by the people. More importantly, he loves the people back. His leadership has consistently been defined by one thing—empowerment upon empowerment. He is always thinking about how to improve the lives of others, often placing the welfare of the people above his own comfort. It is therefore not surprising that many people describe him as a God-sent blessing to Nigeria, Kogi State, and particularly Kogi Central.
One of the most remarkable things about the Barefoot Renewable Energy College is its inclusiveness. You do not need a university degree, a secondary school certificate, or even a primary school certificate to gain admission. All you need is the willingness to learn. At the end of the training, beneficiaries acquire globally relevant renewable energy skills and receive certificates that can transform their lives, open doors to employment and entrepreneurship, and create sustainable livelihoods. The college is equipped with world-class facilities and some of the best training equipment available anywhere.
Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi has demonstrated that true leadership is about creating opportunities that outlive one’s tenure. His vision is already changing lives today, and it will continue to impact generations yet unborn. Kogi Central is indeed fortunate to have a son who has chosen to leave behind institutions rather than mere memories.
May Almighty God continue to strengthen, protect, and guide Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi. May He grant him greater wisdom, sound health, long life, and even higher platforms to serve Nigeria and humanity. May the good he has done for Kogi State, Kogi Central, and Nigeria return to him in countless blessings, and may his legacy continue to flourish for many generations. Amen.
– Hon. Clement Daudu
SSA to the Executive Governor of Kogi State on Private Education Institutions.
