An address delivered by Chief Victor Adewale Omofaiye on behalf of the Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello during the general meeting of Okun Development Association (ODA) held on Friday 20th October, 2017 at Kabba.
Protocol.
Great and good people of Okun land, I feel highly elated and honoured to be part of this memorable and historic conference of my beloved people (Okun People) organized by the national body of Okun Development Association (ODA). I am indeed so humbled to be counted worthy as the special Guest of Honour of this conference.
Considering the important roles Okun Development Association (ODA) has been playing in the socio-economic advancement of Okun People and the maintenance of peace, law and order, justice, fair play and unity in the region, I humbly commend the founding fathers of Okun Development Association (ODA), the present executive of the association and other stakeholders for their noble initiative at bringing us together today to chart a new course for the lasting development of Okun land and election of new officers to pilot the affairs of this highly respected association.
Let me at this juncture once again register my profound gratitude and appreciation to the good people of Okun land for their total support to my government since inception till today. I thank you all for the confidence reposed in me. I have equally reciprocated your love for me by appointing some of your patriotic citizens into key position in my administration. I can attest to the fact loud and clear that they are representing Okun people very well.
It is known all over the world that Okun land is endowed and blessed with great men and women of integrity who have contributed immensely to the development of Kogi State in particular and Nigeria in general. I therefore doff my cap for Okun people.
Okun Development Association (ODA) as an umbrella body must be seen as an avenue to foster peace and unity of Okun people as well pursue through peaceful and constitutional means programmes capable of bringing progress and development to the region.
The cultural values of respect for elders, hardwork, patriotism, and loyalty to constituted authorities, law abiding, self discipline and other cultural heritage associated with Okun People must not be eroded because the culture of a people is their identity and as it gives them recognition in the comity of nations. ODA must continue to promote Okun Cultural values.
No doubt Okun people are known for agriculture. One of the thematic agenda of my government is agriculture that is why we are developing several hectares of land across Kogi State particularly at Omi in Yagba West Local Government Area for cultivation of rice and fish farming.
We have several on-going road projects in Okunland and the government will continue to ensure equity in the distribution of amenities across the state.
Some of the roads that my government is working on in Okunland include Ejuku-Ajowa-Jege-Ife Olukotun – Igbagun road in Yagba East Local Government Area, Ekinrin/Adde-Ohun–Ifeolukotun road in Ijumu and Yagba East Local Government Areas, among others.
I admire the respect for the traditional Institution in Okunland. Let us continue to accord them their due respect and carry them along in all our undertakings. Their contribution to security, peace and unity in our communities is highly appreciated.
Okun Development Association must not be divided. You are to remain strong together and ensure that your association is not divided along personal interest. You are better together.
I want to assure you that my government will continue to work for the interest of Okun people and Kogi State in general.
You must ensure peaceful conduct of the election as my government will be ready to support and work with the new elected officers of the association.
I sincerely thank you all.
God bless Okun land..
