A sociopolitical group, the Kogi State New Generation Initiative, has applauded state residents for trusting Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s leadership.
Addressing newsmen yesterday in Abuja, the convener of the group, Comrade Richard Otitoleke, who is also the Senior Special Assistant to the Kogi State Governor on Drug Rehabilitation, commended the residents for embracing peace and maturity in the wake of nationwide protests that have affected many states across the federation.
He said: “The protest, occasioned by the prevailing challenges in our nation’s economy, was presumably to call the federal government’s attention to address the economic situation and alleviate the hardship experienced by the masses. However, it snowballed into violence, looting, and the destruction of public and private property in some areas.
“While the youths of Kogi State also acknowledge the reality of our nation’s economic challenges, it is impressive and commendable that they displayed maturity by believing in the leadership of Governor Ododo, who has demonstrated uncommon administrative competence and implemented policies initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s government to reduce poverty, improve security, and boost the state’s economic fortunes.
“The cooperation between Governor Ododo and the youths of Kogi State is a testament to his acceptance, leadership, and the belief in his capacity to deliver.
“It should be recalled that under the leadership of Governor Ododo, the Kogi State government has implemented federal initiatives to enable the state to generate and distribute power.
“This includes establishing the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Agency and the Kogi State Energy Commission, with a clear directive for accelerated power generation and distribution that is affordable for the masses and beneficial for small and large-scale businesses in the state.
“The goodwill enjoyed by Governor Ododo among civil and public servants in Kogi State today is a direct result of the government’s intentional efforts to prioritise workers’ welfare, including the prompt payment of salaries and other benefits to improve the state’s workforce.”
He added: “The Kogi State governor has also signed the Kogi State Free Examination Registration Law for Public Schools. By this law, all examinations—from Primary School Common Entrance Exams to WAEC, NECO, NABTEB, and JAMB—are free for all public school students in Kogi State.
“Furthermore, the Kogi State government has not only made tertiary institutions accessible and affordable to youths across the three senatorial zones but has also set up mechanisms to ensure that students in Kogi State benefit widely from the student loan program initiated by President Bola Tinubu.
“In building a more robust security system, within three months in office, the Kogi State governor has further empowered local vigilantes by distributing security vehicles and motorcycles across all 21 local governments.
