By Kehinde Erin
The Kogi State Government, has taken a significant step towards enhancing its media landscape by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pora Films.
This partnership aims to establish Kogi Television, a state-owned television station, which will provide a platform for showcasing the state’s culture, promoting investment opportunities, and giving Kogi State global visibility.
The MoU was signed at the office of the Secretary to the Government of Kogi State, with Mrs. Folashade Ayoade Arike, representing the state government.
This historic move marks a major milestone in the state’s effort to establish its own television station, a feat that has been 33 years in the making since the state’s creation.
The partnership is expected to last for five years, with the option of renewal for an additional two years, after which the television station will be handed over to the state government.
With this development, Kogi State is poised to take its rightful place among leading broadcasting platforms in Nigeria.
The Secretary to the Government of Kogi State hailed the partnership between Kogi State and Pora Films as a groundbreaking moment in the state’s broadcasting history. Adding that the pioneering initiative is built on a Public Private Partnership (PPP), model, marking a significant milestone in the state’s development.
“For years, Kogi State was the only state in Nigeria without a television station, but thanks to the visionary leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, this gap is finally being bridged. The establishment of a state-owned television station is a testament to the Governor’s commitment to progress and development.
“We are committed to ensuring that this project is executed with the highest level of professionalism and efficiency, so that Kogi Television, can take it’s rightful place among leading broadcasting platforms, including DSTV and Startimes,” she said.
The SGS added that the establishment of Kogi Television is more than just broadcasting – it’s about sharing the unique story of Kogi State with the world. Saying that it’s an opportunity to showcase the state’s rich culture, highlight investment opportunities, and put Kogi State on the global map
She emphasised the importance of this project, tasking the Ministry of Information and Communication to oversee the process and ensure a successful launch of Kogi Television.
She also tasked the consultants with delivering high-quality results in a timely manner, and assured them of the government’s full support to ensure the project’s success.
Mrs. Folashade Arike praised Governor Ododo’s innovative initiative, expressing her confidence that it will catapult Kogi State onto the global stage.
She also extended her appreciation to distinguished guests in attendance, including Mr. Ebenezer Adurodija, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communication; YJ Itopa, MD/CEO of the Graphic Newspaper; the Director-General of Kogi Broadcasting Corporation; and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Print Media.
Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, Commissioner for Information and Communication, who also praised Governor Ododo, stated that the completion of the project will showcase Kogi State in a positive and favorable light, highlighting its beauty, potential, and opportunities to a global audience.
He assured that the Ministry will provide full support to the consultants, ensuring that Kogi Television operates with professionalism and adheres to global standards, setting a new benchmark for broadcasting in the state.
Mr. Olajide Ojoniyi, Co-founder of Pora Films, praised the state government for launching the initiative, promising to deliver a top-notch project that meets the highest standards.
His commitment to excellence is a testament to the potential of this collaboration, which is expected to yield outstanding results.
