Kogi State is on the verge of making a historic decision as it prepares for its next gubernatorial election. Among the various aspirants vying for the governorship seat, Prof. Stephen Ikani Ocheni stands out as the most competent and qualified to lead the state into a new era of progress and development.
Prof. Ocheni’s impressive educational background, vast experience, and numerous achievements make him a clear standout among his peers. As a professor of accounting, he has distinguished himself as an accomplished academic and an expert in his field with publications in national and international journals and academic books. He has also served in various capacities as a public servant, including as a Permanent Secretary in the Government House Administration under late Gov. Prince Abubakar Audu from 1999 to 2003.
As a former Minister of State, Labour and Employment under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari (2016-2019), Prof. Ocheni’s impact was felt across the country. He used his position to influence job opportunities for numerous youths in the formal and informal sectors. He also influenced the siting of a Federal Government Skills Acquisition Center at Uwowo in the Igala mela/Odolu local government area. This project has been fully completed with state-of-the-art facilities and is set to take in students from different parts of the state that are willing to acquire the necessary skills that will make them self-reliant and employers of Labour.
One of Prof. Ocheni’s most significant contributions to Kogi State was his role as Chairman of the Kogi State Ad-hoc Committee on Fiscal Responsibility in 2016. His report led to the introduction of the government policy on Treasury Single Account (TSA) and contributory Pension Scheme in Kogi State in 2017. The report also played a key role in the establishment of the Kogi State Pension Commission, a single Pension Administrative body in the state.
Prof. Ocheni has also been recognized for his achievements with numerous awards and fellowships, including Fellow, Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (FCNA), Fellow, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (FCTI), and Fellow, Chartered Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria (FCPA), among others.
In addition to his achievements in public service, Professor Ocheni has demonstrated a strong commitment to youth empowerment and job creation. He has used his goodwill to attract more job opportunities for youths that are not gainfully employed. He has also influenced job opportunities for numerous youths of the state both in the formal and informal sectors.
Furthermore, Professor Ocheni holds several traditional titles, which demonstrate his strong ties to the people and the culture of Kogi State. These traditional titles give him a unique perspective and insight into the needs and aspirations of the people.
In conclusion, Kogi State needs a competent, experienced, and visionary leader who can take the state to greater heights of development and progress. Prof. Stephen Ikani Ocheni is that leader. His achievements, experience, and vast network of influence make him the best candidate for the governorship seat. Kogi State will be fortunate to have him at the helm of affairs, and the people can look forward to a brighter future under his leadership.
– Mary Amodu Omakoji
Journalist/Communication Consultant
