“God loves Kogi, but Kogi must learn to love itself”
Former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, has described a former governorship candidate in Kogi state, Late Dr. Stephen Makoji Achema, as a man of integrity, resilience, and dedication to the welfare of his people.
Speaking at the 25th Memorial Anniversary of Dr. Steven Makoji Achema in Abuja on Monday, Prof Gana praised Dr Achema’s leadership qualities and called for value-based leadership in Nigeria.
Highlighting Dr. Achema’s passion for community development, Prof. Gana recounted his initiatives in agriculture, education, security, and resource-based industries. He emphasized the relevance of these efforts, particularly in unlocking Kogi State’s economic potential.
“Dr. Achema envisioned a Kogi State thriving on its abundant natural resources and agricultural wealth. His dream remains a beacon for the state’s future,” Prof. Gana said.
Prof. Gana underscored Kogi State’s immense natural resource wealth, lamenting the lack of resource-based industries to harness these assets.
He called for immediate efforts to establish industries tied to the state’s mineral base, noting that “Kogi is so wealthy. Resource-based industries could turn Kogi into the richest state in Nigeria. This is an opportunity that must not be wasted.”
He passionately highlighted the potential of the Niger and Benue River Basins in transforming Nigeria’s agriculture.
“The key to real agricultural transformation is ensuring the Niger and Benue Basins are fully operational. With year-round farming, Nigeria can feed the entire African continent.”
On the challenges of leadership in Nigeria, the former minister noted that a lack of integrity and accountability among many leaders has hindered the nation’s progress urging citizens to prioritize these qualities when choosing leaders.
“Our leaders must inspire trust and be guided by justice and fairness. The rule of law is non-negotiable for national development.”
He proposed the establishment of a leadership institute in Nigeria to cultivate future leaders grounded in ethical values.
Prof. Gana called on citizens to engage actively in governance, stressing that democracy thrives when leaders are held accountable.
In an emotional appeal, Prof. Gana urged Kogi’s people to foster unity and self-love to drive development.
“God loves Kogi, but Kogi must learn to love itself. With your resources, there is no reason for poverty,” he said, adding that unity among citizens is essential for progress.
Prof. Gana’s remarks served as both a tribute to Dr. Achema’s enduring legacy and a call to action for Kogi State and Nigeria at large.
“Dr. Achema’s vision lives on. Let us honor him by taking bold steps toward the development he dreamed of for Kogi State and Nigeria,” Gana concluded, earning a standing ovation.
Until his death on 6th November 1999, Dr Achema who had a sterling record of service in his profession as a veterinary medical practitioner, was a senior special assistant to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
