By Ojotule Romanus
Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has empowered Over one thousand youth and petty traders drawn from the Nine Local Government Areas in Kogi East Senatorial District District as part of efforts tailored towards grassroots economic development.
The empowerment program featured the distribution of motorcycles and ₦50,000 cash support to petty traders to strengthen small businesses, improve rural transportation and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Speaking during the Flagoff of programme which took place in Ejule, Ofu Local Government Area recently, Governor Ododo pointed out that the empwement is a further demonstration of his administration’s commitment to prioritize the welfare of the people most especially at the grassroots level.
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He appreciated the people of Ofu for their continued support, just as he assured them that his administration had not neglected the area despite his inability to visit earlier. He highlighted ongoing interventions in healthcare and education, describing Ofu as a strategic community in Kogi’s history and development.
Governor Ododo who emphasised the importance of peace and security as penacle for development, commended the people for their cooperation with security agencies. He urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the empowerment items, noting that small opportunities, when properly managed, could grow into successful businesses and transform families.
Ododo also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his economic reforms which he said had strengthened the capacity of state governments to extend support to ordinary Nigerians and as such he urged the people to support the President beyond 2027 for more dividends of democracy.
While calling for unity among the different ethnic groups in state, the governor stressed that political differences should never destroy the bonds of brotherhood.
Earlier in his address, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the visit as historic and commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his commitment to security, infrastructure and economic empowerment.
The deputy governor highlighted some of the ongoing projects in Ejule, to includes a major healthcare facility, the revitalisation of the Anyigba Road borehole, and the construction and renovation of Ofuloko Primary School, alongside other community interventions.
He further commended the Governor’s security efforts, particularly the recent recovery of ammunition and arrest of suspected criminals in Edimogo, Ofu LGA.
The deputy governor also called on the people of Kogi East to maintain their support for the administration, assuring them of continued attention to their welfare and development needs.
