By Abdulmumin Abubakar
The emergency of Alh. Usman Ahmed Ododo as Governor of Kogi State in November 2023 governorship election threw up number of challenges and expectations on whether or not the established developmental trajectory by the previous administration will be sustained.
It was also a clarion call for the incoming chief executive to quickly map out initiatives towards quenching the rising concerns on certain aspect of governance they considered critical but remain evasive by the previous administration.
Little did anyone know Governor Ododo’s vision for Kog State is clear; to create a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable society. To match words with action, he had worked tirelessly to implement policies that drive economic growth and prosperity, improve infrastructure, and enhanced the quality of life in Kogi State.
The sudden pay rise for Kogi worker’s and pensioners was something the people had long expected but never believe it could come anytime soon. The pay rise was sequel to the full payment of salaries to all categories of workers and implementation of the new minimum wage of N72,500 above the national approve amount of N70,000.
Completion of all ongoing infrastructural development like roads, housing policies, upgrading of infrastructure in all state tertiary institutions, healthcare facility upgrade in all teaching hospitals including the state specialist hospital, and extension of health insurance program to non-formal sector.
In addition, the state government also paid bursaries to all students of Kogi origin in all tertiary institutions in the country and of course award of scholarships deserving students from Kogi state.
The combine economic effects of the above policies of the present administration of Alh. Usman Ododo triggered huge relief to the people, created hundreds of jobs and improve general welfare of the people.
As the bloom that graces our time, Governor Usman Ododo represents a new era of leadership in Kogi State. His dedication, passion, and innovative spirit have earned him the admiration of many.
Governor Usman Ododo’s journey is a testament to the power of visionary leadership. As he continues to nurture the bloom of progress in Kogi State, the people have reason to be optimistic about their future.
Therefore, the recent visit of Governor Usman Ododo to the National Secretariat of All Progressive Congress (APC) was to avail the party leadership of his stewardship amidst calls on the party by the people of Kogi State to support Gov. Ododo’s second term in office.
– Abdulmumin Abubakar writes from Okengwe in Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State
