By Kehinde Erin
Kogi state Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has made significant strides in his first year in office, transforming the state’s agricultural sector, education, infrastructure, and economy.
These accomplishments were highlighted by the Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Folashade Ayoade, during a two-day “Kogi State Leadership and Ministerial Briefing” in Lokoja.
The event, themed “The Advanced New Direction: From Continuity and Consolidation to Strategic Development,” showcased the governor’s vision for the state’s progress and development.
According to Dr. Folashade, the Governor’s achievements are a testament to his visionary policies and strategic execution.
In the agricultural sector, Governor Ododo’s administration has empowered over 10,000 farmers with essential inputs, resulting in a 25% increase in agricultural productivity. This has positioned Kogi as a leading producer of staple crops like cassava and rice.
Additionally, the establishment of the Kogi State Agro-Processing Centers has created opportunities for over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs.
In education, the governor’s administration she added has renovated and equipped 150 schools with modern facilities, staffed with qualified teachers. Enrollment rates have risen by 18%, and students’ performances in national examinations have improved by 12%.
The SGS, saud ifrastructure development has also been a key focus, with the completion of critical road projects like the GYB Junction-Zone8 Roundabout-Crusher roads. This project is set to ease traffic congestion and improve transportation efficiency in Lokoja. Furthermore, several erosion management projects have been executed, impacting the lives of over 300,000 residents.
Economic empowerment has also been a priority, with over 240 young artisans undergoing training in various skills at the Nigeria-Korean Friendship Institute. The state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has also witnessed a significant surge within a year, demonstrating the effectiveness of Governor Ododo’s fiscal policies.
She maintained that Governor Ododo’s first year in office has been marked by significant achievements, and his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity is expected to drive sustained growth and development in Kogi State.
“These achievements are a testament to the advanced New Direction in which Kogi is heading.
“As we convene for this retreat, let us recognise that our collective efforts must now shift-toward shaping a veritable future for our state.
“This retreat offers a unique opportunity to harness our diverse expertise, chart a strategic roadmap, and set actionable goals to address pressing challenges while maximising opportunities.
“The retreat’s objectives—enhancing leadership and ministerial capacity, fostering economic growth, addressing infrastructure needs, and promoting human capital development—are pivotal for achieving our vision of a prosperous Kogi.