Kogi Strategic To Nigeria’s Development, Progress — Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has stated that Kogi State is strategically important to Nigeria’s development and holds a vital historical position, given its location, which once served as the capital of Nigeria.

The President made this statement on Monday at Muhammadu Buhari Square in Lokoja, while receiving opposition political leaders and their supporters to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, noted that the defection of the former Governor of the state, Capt. Idris Wada (rtd) and the former Speaker of the state, Alfa Umar Imam, along with thousands of their supporters, demonstrated their confidence in the current administration by joining the APC.

“The president of Nigeria, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu and the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, are doing very well in the delivery of their campaign promises to the people of Nigeria and Kogi State.

“This is the confidence that these opposition leaders have in our economic policies and several reforms aimed at positioning the economy of Nigeria for greater efficiency,” Tinubu said.

Tinubu assured defectors that the party would provide a level playing field for both old and new members. “Our party meant well for Nigeria, and we will do our best to ensure a prosperous nation for all.”

Earlier, the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, while welcoming the decampees, assured them that the APC government will continue to strive for a better Nigeria through effective service delivery.

He commended Governor Ododo for replicating the ideals and programmes of the APC government at the centre, which he said was responsible for opposition members decamping to the APC.

Speaking also, Governor Ododo commended President Tinubu for providing the state with all the necessary support to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of the State.

According to him, his administration has initiated and completed several projects across the state which have a direct bearing on the lives of the people.

In addition to road infrastructure and other human capital development, Ododo said his administration has rehabilitated and commissioned over 80 primary healthcare centres to provide quality healthcare services to the people, particularly women and children.

He assured that the state will continue to follow the footsteps of Tinubu by delivering dividends of democracy to the people.

Speaking on behalf of the decampees, Capt. Wada said the decision to leave their party followed their conviction that the APC government meant well for Nigeria.

“You can see the infrastructural development going on in Nigeria and Kogi State. That was why others and I have come to join forces with them to bring about a great nation and Kogi State that will be the pride of all of us,” Wada said.