*Honoured with Chieftancy tittle
By Kehinde Erin
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s recent working visit to Yagba Federal Constituency on February 28, 2025, sent a strong message about his commitment to grassroots governance. This trip marked a significant milestone in his administration’s efforts to bring governance closer to the people.
As Governor Ododo’s convoy made its way through Mopamuro, the atmosphere was electric. Residents, students, well-wishers and citizens lined the roads, cheering and celebrating the Governor’s presence. Their enthusiasm was palpable, and for good reason.
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At Yagba West LGA, the Governor’s first stop was the Palace of the Elegbe of Egbe where he engaged in a fruitful meeting with the Traditional Council at the Palace. During the meeting, the Governor emphasised the crucial role traditional leaders play in maintaining peace and security within their domains.
He assured them of his administration’s unwavering support, recognising the importance of collaboration between traditional institutions and the government.
This visit is part of Governor Ododo’s broader vision to transform Kogi State through infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and social welfare initiatives.
His administration has been working tirelessly to improve the lives of citizens, and this visit demonstrates his dedication to listening to the needs of the people and responding accordingly.
His Royal Majesty, Oba Ayodele Irekera, the Elegbe of Egbe, was full of praises to Governor Ododo. The Governor’s transformational leadership and efforts to boost the state’s economy earned him high accolades from the monarch.
Oba Irekera acknowledged that the Local Government Area had faced two major crises, but Governor Ododo’s intervention had brought peace and unity to the warring parties.
The monarch then outlined key areas in need of improvement, including: Egbe Central Palace Complex: A hub for cultural and traditional activities. Egbe Airstrip: A vital infrastructure for transportation and economic growth. College of Nursing Sciences, Egbe: A reputable institution providing quality education in healthcare services. Titcombe College Egbe: A prominent educational institution in the region.
According to Oba Irekera, addressing these areas would spur rapid development, create employment opportunities, and empower the local youth. The monarch’s suggestions underscore the need for collaborative efforts between traditional leaders, government officials, and local communities to drive growth and progress.
In a grand display of appreciation and cultural heritage, Governor Ododo, was honored with the prestigious chieftaincy title of ‘Badiru of Egbe’ by the Elegbe of Egbe. This esteemed recognition came as a result of the Governor’s historic visit to the community, marking the first time a Governor will visit the area in nine years.
The Governor was visibly moved by the gesture, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the people of Egbe for their warm welcome and kindness. He pledged to reciprocate their love and support by committing to the development of their community.
This promise aligns with Governor Ododo’s broader vision for Kogi State, which emphasises infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and social welfare initiatives.
The royal fathers present at the ceremony, appreciated the Governor’s visit, offering prayers for his continued success and well-being.
Governor Ododo, also visited the Forward Operating Base (FoB), of the Nigerian Army in Kogi West, a vital security infrastructure made possible by Senator Sunday Karimi. This visit showcased the Governor’s commitment to engaging with the military and recognising their sacrifices in maintaining peace and security in the region.
During his visit, Governor Ododo engaged in a heart-to-heart dialogue with the officers and soldiers, listening attentively to their concerns and acknowledging the challenges they face. He assured them of his administration’s unwavering support, urging them to remain vigilant and decisive in protecting lives and property.
The Governor called on the people of Kogi West to join forces with the military by providing credible information to flush out criminals in the area.
Senator Sunday Karimi, made a commitment to Governor Ododo, to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of Kogi West Senatorial District. This promise underscores Senator Karimi’s dedication to representing the interests of his constituents and ensuring they benefit from the democratic process.
The FOB, facilitated by Senator Karimi, is a critical component of the state’s security architecture. Governor Ododo’s visit underscores the importance of collaboration between government officials, military personnel, and local stakeholders in maintaining peace and security.
Governor Ododo then visited the newly constructed headquarters of Sector ‘D’ Command of the Kogi State Vigilante Service in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government Area. The facility was commissioned on behalf of the Governor by the State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Duro Omodara (RTD).
During the commissioning, Governor Ododo expressed his satisfaction with the infrastructure, noting its potential to significantly curb crime in the region.
He pledged his administration’s continued support to the vigilante service, recognising their vital role in maintaining law and order.
The Governor also urged the local community to collaborate with the vigilante officials, stressing the importance of collective efforts in tackling crime and ensuring peace in the region.
Governor Ododo’s visit to Egbe was a testament to his administration’s commitment to transforming the town into a modern urban center. While inspecting the ongoing road projects, Egbe community, thrilled with the Governor’s efforts, expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the developmental strides made under his leadership.
The road projects, aim to enhance connectivity, improve road safety, and boost local economies. By investing in these projects, Governor Ododo is not only transforming Egbe but also improving the quality of life for its residents.
Governor Ododo also visited Chief Kolawole Jamodu, the Asiwaju of Ere land and former Minister of Industry. The Governor acknowledged Chief Kolawole’s tireless efforts in promoting security, peace, and unity among his people, recognising the significant impact of his leadership on the community.
Chief Kolawole, in turn, commended Governor Ododo for his exceptional leadership style, which has taken Kogi State to new heights. He urged the Governor to continue his good work, expressing gratitude for the employment opportunities created for the youths in his Local Government Area.
However, Chief Kolawole, also seized the opportunity to highlight areas requiring attention, specifically the need to improve electricity supply and complete the ongoing township roads construction, which is currently in its second phase.
At Odo Ere, the headquarters of Yagba West Local Government Area, Governor Ododo, engaged directly with community leaders, civil servants, students, and the people. The meeting was a unique opportunity for the people to share their thoughts about his administration.
The people of Ere and surrounding areas, witnessed firsthand the positive changes brought about by the Governor’s leadership. From improved infrastructure to enhanced social services, the effects of his administration’s efforts are far-reaching and transformative.
Governor Ododo’s last stop was Yagba East Local Government Area. The visit was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony for a road construction project in Makutu, facilitated by Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide, a House of Representative legislator renowned for his dedication to his constituents.
As the Governor interacted with traditional rulers and community stakeholders, he commended Abejide for his outstanding representation, describing him as a true advocate for the people. The warmth and admiration between the two leaders highlighted the importance of collaboration in governance, demonstrating that when leaders work together, the people benefit.
The Governor praised Abejide during the project’s flag-off ceremony in Isanlu, acknowledging the lawmaker’s efforts to alleviate the suffering of his constituents, who have endured decades of hardship due to the road’s poor condition.
He pledged to join forces with Hon. Abejide to propel Kogi State to unprecedented heights.
Hon. Abejide, a ranking member of the Federal House of Representatives under ADC, has consistently demonstrated his passion for the progress and prosperity of Kogi State. His leadership style, which prioritizes the needs of his constituents, has earned him widespread recognition and admiration.
The partnership between Governor Ododo and Hon. Abejide is expected to yield significant benefits for the people of Kogi State. By pooling their resources and expertise, they aim to tackle pressing challenges and create new opportunities for economic growth, social development, and infrastructure expansion.
Governor Ododo urged the people of Makutu to support Abejide’s initiatives, which complement Government efforts in education and infrastructure.
The Chairman of Yagba East Area Traditional Council, HRM Oba Moses Babatunde Etombi, also praised Abejide for the road project, saying it as long overdue.
The monarch thanked Governor Ododo for his bipartisan approach and appealed to him to restore electricity to Isanlu, which has been experiencing blackout.
