Kogi state government has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Pora Films for the establishment of a state-owned television station.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony in Lokoja on Friday, the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, said the partnership with Pora Films is expected to last for five years and renewable for two years after which it will be handed over to the state government.
She described the initiative as a historic milestone, emphasizing that the project, championed by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, would bridge the long-standing gap in the state’s media presence, providing a platform to tell the Kogi story, promote local content and investment opportunities as well as enhance global visibility.
“The establishment of this television station is a testament to the state government’s commitment to empowering its citizens and promoting socio-economic growth. This project will provide a platform for showcasing our rich cultural heritage, as well as serve as a tool for education, information, and entertainment,” she said.
Dr. Ayoade, who signed the MoU on behalf of the state government added that the state-owned television station, the first since creation of the state, will also serve as a means for the government to communicate its policies and programs to the citizens, thereby promoting transparency and accountability.
The State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Kinsley Femi Fanwo thanked Governor Ododo for bringing the dream to reality, noting that the choice of Pora Films was to run the television station in line with global standards.
He assured that measures have been put in place to make the television station one of the best in the country.
Co-Founder of Pora Films, Mr. Olajide Ojoniyi said the company has been achieving great feats for DSTV and other giants in the broadcast industry, promising to replicate the same in Kogi.
Ojoniyi thanked Kogi state government for granting their firm the opportunity to showcase their expertise in partnering with the state for the establishment of Kogi State Television Station.
The MoU signing was witnessed by the Director General Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation, Princess Nana Hauwa Yussuf; Managing Director of The Graphics Newspaper, Yusuf Itopa; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media, Hon. Avoyi Nwogu amongst other stakeholders.
