DAILYUPDATES

The Kogi State chapter of the Obidient Movement has joined millions of Nigerians in commemorating the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary, calling for unity, love, and collective resolve to overcome present challenges. In a statement signed by the Movement’s spokesperson, Idakwo Emmanuel, on behalf of the State Coordinator, Hon. Ola Samuel, the anniversary was described as a “wonderful and solemn reminder of the collective duty every thoughtful Nigerian owes to the task of nation-building.” Hon. Samuel urged citizens to remain steadfast in promoting unity, peace, and patriotism, stressing that only through collective strength can Nigerians defeat insecurity and banditry. “Let us come together in love, unity, and joy, using our collective strength to overcome the security and banditry challenges confronting us. Together, we can build a new Nigeria for both the present and future generations,” he said. The statement further invoked divine protection and blessings for the c...

The Kogi State chapter of the Obidient Movement has joined millions of Nigerians in commemorating the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary, calling for unity, love, and collective resolve to overcome present challenges. In a statement signed by the Movement’s spokesperson, Idakwo Emmanuel, on behalf of the State Coordinator, Hon. Ola Samuel, the anniversary was described as a “wonderful and solemn reminder of the collective duty every thoughtful Nigerian owes to the task of nation-building.” Hon. Samuel urged citizens to remain steadfast in promoting unity, peace, and patriotism, stressing that only through collective strength can Nigerians defeat insecurity and banditry. “Let us come together in love, unity, and joy, using our collective strength to overcome the security and banditry challenges confronting us. Together, we can build a new Nigeria for both the present and future generations,” he said. The statement further invoked divine protection and blessings for the c...

Says he should be  placed on security watch, he is a risk to hard earned democracy A group, Frontier Waves, on Tuesday rained heavy knocks on Borno South Senator, Ali Ndume over his call on President Bola Tinubu to act like a dictator to resolve PENGASSAN-Dangote face-off and asked him to bury his head in shame  Borno South Senator, Ali Ndume, had called on President Bola Tinubu to issue an executive order to resolve the ongoing dispute between the Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). Ndume, who featured on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Monday, had said he would not object if the president acted like a dictator in order to end the crisis triggered by the alleged sack of 800 refinery workers. “The best thing is for the president to sign an executive order calling them off. He has the right to dissolve them. In this case, I don’t mind if he acts like a dictator because some situations require very dras...

In a remarkable display of solidarity and appreciation, the Bunu Elite Club paid a courtesy visit to the Comptroller General of the Federal Fire Service, Mr. S.A. Olumode, at the agency's headquarters in Abuja. The delegation, led by the club's Chairman, Hon. Ogede1, was warmly received by the Comptroller General, who expressed gratitude for the gesture. Appreciation for Dedication and Service The Bunu Elite Club delegation congratulated Mr. Olumode on his appointment as the Comptroller General, citing his dedication, commitment, and hard work as the driving forces behind his success. The club's chairman noted that Mr. Olumode's assumption of this esteemed position is a testament to his unwavering commitment to humanity and national service. Presentation of Congratulatory Frame As a token of appreciation and motivation, the Bunu Elite Club presented a congratulatory frame to the Comptroller General. This gesture was graciously accepted by Mr. Olumode, who ex...

The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria has inaugurated its Kogi State branch, charging the newly sworn-in executives to champion legal advocacy for the rights and protection of women and girls. The hybrid ceremony, held recently, at the NBA House, Lokoja, drew dignitaries from the judiciary, legislature, security agencies, civil society, and faith-based organisations. Declaring the event open, the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice J.J. Mejabi—represented by Hon. Justice Awulu—commended AWLA for extending its footprint to the state. He described the association as “a timely force in the fight for justice and protection of vulnerable persons, especially women and girls.” Chairman of the occasion, Sam Ichado Akoji, Esq., lauded the initiative and urged the branch to work with institutions to strengthen access to justice for indigent women. Similarly, the outgoing Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lokoja Branch, said Kogi was in dir...

The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) Nigeria has inaugurated its Kogi State branch, charging the newly sworn-in executives to champion legal advocacy for the rights and protection of women and girls. The hybrid ceremony, held recently, at the NBA House, Lokoja, drew dignitaries from the judiciary, legislature, security agencies, civil society, and faith-based organisations. Declaring the event open, the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice J.J. Mejabi—represented by Hon. Justice Awulu—commended AWLA for extending its footprint to the state. He described the association as “a timely force in the fight for justice and protection of vulnerable persons, especially women and girls.” Chairman of the occasion, Sam Ichado Akoji, Esq., lauded the initiative and urged the branch to work with institutions to strengthen access to justice for indigent women. Similarly, the outgoing Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lokoja Branch, said Kogi was in dir...

As Nigeria approaches another critical moment in its democratic journey the 2027 General Elections, the Coalition of Opposition Parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other progressive blocs, has been urged to shift focus from internal power struggles to the broader electoral reality. According to the North Central Spokesperson of the Obidient Movement, Comrade Emmanuel Idakwo, the future of Nigeria’s democracy depends on presenting a candidate who commands the trust and confidence of the electorate, not just one who can manipulate primaries through money politics. He stressed that Nigeria’s youth—the most vibrant and productive segment of society—have long been sidelined but are now more politically conscious than ever. “This awakening is not driven by patronage or tribal loyalty, but by a common desire for competent, credible, and compassionate leadership,” Idakwo noted. He argued that among all opposition figures, former presidential candidate Pe...

By Joy Salami  As the world commemorates International Day of Peace, the Kogi State Rotary Action Group for Peace (RAGFP), has joined the global community in promoting harmony, tolerance and peaceful coexistence. State Coordinator Kogi RAGFP, Rotarian Grace Ben Kato, stated this in a press statement, made available to Journalists in Lokoja, as part of activities mark the event. According to her, RAGFP celebrates World Peace Day, observed annually on September 21, with events and initiatives around the globe, with events centered on the United Nation's theme, "Act Now for a Peaceful World." Rotarian Grace, who said the theme, serve as a reminder of the power of individual and collective actions in fostering global peace, urged Individuals, organisations, and governments to work together to achieve peace. Emphasizing that peace is crucial for development and societal progress. The state chapter of RAGFP, she noted is set to carry out programs and par...

By Bishop Aturu  The Project Coordinator of the Kogi Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Oricha, has expressed satisfaction with the smooth, transparent, and impactful distribution of Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) ATM cards to beneficiaries across schools in Kogi Central Senatorial District. Alhaji Oricha gave the commendation during a spot visit to Okene Secondary School, Okene, where beneficiaries gathered to receive their ATM cards under the AGILE Conditional Cash Transfer component aimed at improving girls’ education and supporting adolescent girls remain and complete schools. The visit, which formed part of the Project Coordinator’s monitoring and oversight functions, also covered several other schools in the district, including Lenon Memorial College, OCSS Arigo, UBE JSS Eika Oku, UBE JSS Obochehe, UBE JSS Okengwe, Government Secondary School Okene, LGSS Upogoro, Etahi Community Secondary School, UBE ...

Kogi State Government has intensified collaboration with federal agencies and international partners to reposition agriculture as the mainstay of state’s economy, ensure food security, and promote agricultural export. This followed a working visit to Geregu in Ajaokuta Local Government Area, where government officials and a delegation of agriculture experts and investors inspected farms and engaged stakeholders on opportunities for mechanised farming and market expansion in the market. Kogi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Timothy Ojomah, who led the team, said the initiative reflects Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s vision of leveraging the state’s resources in agriculture to create jobs, empower farmers, and strengthen the economy. "Our Governor has always said we must produce what we eat and eat what we produce. With mechanisation, innovation, and the right partnerships, Kogi will not only feed its people but also support neighbouring states an...

The Accountant General of Kogi State, Hajiya Dr. Habibat Tinjani Onumoko, has commended the people of Bassa Local Government Area for their overwhelming support in electing Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo during the 2023 governorship election. Onumoko, who paid a thank-you visit to the people of Bassa, said their massive votes were instrumental to the victory of Governor Ododo, assuring them that their loyalty and sacrifices will not be taken for granted. “The support of Bassa people is priceless. Governor Ododo values it, and I can assure you that his administration is determined to ensure that dividends of democracy reach every community. Already, his government has brought relief to many Kogites, and the impact of development is being felt across the grassroots,” she stated. She further pledged her continuous support to the Governor’s policies and programs, adding that Bassa people remain a vital part of Kogi’s political strength. In his remarks, Hon. Alhassan Salisu Adakeke,...

By Stella Odika "Leadership is an action, not a position." – Donald Mc-Cannon. This timeless quote aptly captures the essence of Hon. Prince Godwin Eguriase Ejinyere, Director General, Warri/Uvwie and Environs Special Area Development Agency (WUEDA). In just two years of purposeful leadership, he has distinguished himself as a man of vision and action, passionately championing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda to restore Warri, Uvwie, and environs as the vibrant economic hub of Delta State. Hon. Ejinyere’s journey into leadership is a testament to preparation, competence, and passion for service. With a pedigree of over a decade of professional experience as an engineer at Chevron Nigeria Ltd (CNL), a former Chairman of Okpe Local Government Council, and the immediate past Executive Assistant to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, he has consistently proven his capacity for effective leadership with an heritage of responsibility and dignity that continues to shape ...

The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its determination to revolutionize the state’s education sector in line with global standards. The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, gave the assurance during a media tour of Kogi State University (KSU), Kabba, where journalists inspected ongoing developmental projects. Fanwo noted that the administration of Governor Usman Ododo has continued to prioritize education while also ensuring security and providing a conducive environment for learning across the state’s institutions. He dismissed misconceptions that the university is unsafe and unfit for academic activities, stressing that the institution has remained peaceful and habitable. “The three state-owned universities remain a true reflection of unity in Nigeria,” Fanwo said. “Governor Ododo is transforming the education sector beyond what many thought possible. That is why we brought you here—to silence the naysayers. We are not just talki...

Ambassador Coach Gabriel Abinu, a young philanthropist, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Alhaji Asiru Ijagbemi, father of the Kogi State Commissioner for Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning. The late Alhaji Ijagbemi died on Sunday at the age of 95. In a condolence message to the bereaved family, Ambassador Abinu described the late nonagenarian as “a father whose love for his children and community knew no boundaries.” He noted that Alhaji Ijagbemi lived a fulfilled life and would forever be remembered for his immense contributions to humanity and the peace of the state. “We have lost a father and a peace builder in Kogi State. Late Alhaji Asiru Ijagbemi was a man loved by all, a man who touched many lives positively. As the Holy Book says, from dust we came and to dust we shall return. Baba has done his best for his people, and it is now left for us to sustain his good works on earth,” Abinu stated. The philanthropist also prayed for strength for the family ...

The Kogi State Government has commenced the inspection of the ongoing 10-kilometre Mopa-Muro township road project, reaffirming its commitment to the timely completion of infrastructure across the state. The inspection team, led by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, and the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Muhammed Avohi Yusuf, emphasized the administration’s determination to improve road networks for the ease of transportation of goods and services. Speaking to journalists during the tour, Engr. Yusuf disclosed that significant progress has been made on the project. “The government is constructing not less than 10 kilometres of road in this local government. As you can see, four kilometres have already been completed with asphalt. Once the rainy season ends, the entire project will be delivered,” he said. He commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for prioritizing infrastructure development, noting that similar projects a...

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Alhaji Asiru Ijagbemi, father of the Hon. Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, who died on Sunday at the age of 95. In his condolence message to the bereaved family,  Governor Ododo noted that the late Alhaji Ijagbemi lived a fulfilled life and left behind enduring legacies that will continue to be remembered by his family and community. “Alhaji Asiru Ijagbemi was a man of rare virtue who lived a life of fulfilment, honour and piety. His passing is not only a grievous loss to his immediate household, but also to the entire people Yagba East and indeed, to the entire Kogi State,” the Governor said. The Governor noted that only a few weeks ago he lost his own father and a priceless friend and as such, he knows what it truly means to lose a father at this time, stressing that while the pain is immeasurable, the comfort lies in the enduring legacy left behind by t...

The Ijumu Ladies Association has congratulated Prince Olatunji Olusoji on his conferment with a prestigious Honourary Doctorate Degree by Vine University, USA. In a statement signed by its President, Comrade Olajumoke Olumosunle, the association described Prince Olusoji as a distinguished philanthropist and advocate of human capital development whose contributions have left indelible marks in Ijumu, Okunland, and Kogi State at large. According to the association, the honour is a recognition of Prince Olusoji’s tireless commitment to philanthropy, education, and community development, especially in supporting the poor and vulnerable. “We are delighted to identify with his humanitarian and philanthropic services, which resonate with our vision and mission. Prince Olusoji’s remarkable work has improved lives, empowered individuals, and inspired positive change in society,” the statement noted. The association further commended Vine University for acknowledging the selfless eff...

The Kogi State Vigilante Service (KSVS), Olamaboro Command, has arrested a suspected serial burglar identified as Ojochenemi Samuel in the Etutekpe area of Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State. According to a statement issued on Friday, September 19, 2025, by the KSVS Public Relations Officer, Idris S. Idris, the suspect was apprehended following an intelligence tip-off. Items recovered from him at the point of arrest include:One single-barrel firearm, a wheelbarrow, Three mobile phones and Cash in naira denominations During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to breaking into the residence of one Mr. Sunday Abutu, from where he allegedly carted away the recovered items. The statement added that the suspect and the exhibits have since been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force, Olamaboro Division, for further investigation and prosecution. The Comptroller-General of the KSVS, Ibrahim Omeiza Sani (Rtd.), commended the operatives for their swift respons...

A Cleric,   Pastor Rotimi Nathaniel,  RCCG City of Grace, Region 24, Kogi,  has said that Nigeria will  soon come out of its economic woes by the grace of God. Nathaniel made the remarks during the thanksgiving service  of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi Chapter, at the City of Grace Regional headquarters,  Lokoja, on Sunday in celebration of its Press Week In his sermon titled: "Arise to the Next Level, "  the  pastor said with the Policies and programmes being introduced by President Bola Tinubu's administration,  it's a matter of time for Nigerians to smile. Quoting from 1 Sam. 1:18-19, he said God has not forgotten Nigeria but will arise to deliver her from all the prevailing security and economic challenges.  He said God so love Nigeria, which explains why in all her security,  political and socio-economic challenges, the country is still standing and waxing strong.  According to him, some pe...

... As Partners Seek $7trn Yearly To Meet SDG 2030 Goals The Kogi State delegation attending the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), New York, have expressed Gov. Usman Ahmed Ododo's administration's efforts to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. This is as Global development partners and Nigerian delegation at the Assembly also advocated strong partnerships, resource mobilisation in bridging the massive funding gaps that is threatening the accomplishments of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The Kogi State delegation to this year's Assembly, led by Secretary to the Kogi State Government, Dr. Mrs Ayoade Folashade Arike Phd, has other Economic Council Members, made the disclosure of the administration's determination to gender equality, ending poverty and protecting the environment. Some of the other delegates from Kogi State attending the 80th UNGA include; Asiwaju Asiru Idris, Hon Inda ...

Special Adviser on Media to Kogi State Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah has begun sensitization campaign on the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Adavi Local Government Area. Speaking on friday during the exercise, Hon. Isah said the mobilization was part of efforts to sensitize citizens on the importance of obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of future elections. He emphasized that democracy can only thrive when citizens take part in the electoral process, noting that the PVC remains the strongest tool for making political choices. “The power to choose our leaders and influence governance lies in our PVCs. Today’s mobilization is a call to civic duty and an opportunity for every eligible citizen to make their voices heard and their votes count,” he stated. Former Chairman of Adavi LGA and Special Adviser to the Governor on Security (Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency), Hon. Joseph Salami, commended the initiative, describing it as a clear demo...

From AbdulGafar Alabelewe, Kaduna President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday commissioned a set of modern facilities at the historic Sultan Bello Mosque, Kaduna, sponsored by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL). The projects include a state-of-the-art ablution centre, 50 restrooms with VIP sections, and a 300,000-litre overhead water tank to serve both worshippers and the surrounding Ungwan Sarki community. Tinubu, who was in Kaduna for the wedding of former Zamfara Governor Abdul’Aziz Yari’s son, described the intervention as a testimony to unity and corporate social responsibility across Nigeria’s regions. Before the intervention, the mosque relied on a small ablution facility that was grossly inadequate for the large number of worshippers, particularly during the Friday Juma’at prayers. The new ablution centre can now serve up to 300 worshippers at the same time, while the overhead tank guarantees uninterrupted water supply for both the m...

The Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET), the umbrella body of civil society organizations in Kogi State, has expressed deep concern over the ongoing crisis between the Association of Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) and the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara. The dispute, which stems from allegations of employment marginalization and non-compliance with disability inclusion laws, has raised tensions in the state. In a statement signed by its Chairperson, Hamza Aliyu, KONGONET described the situation as “disturbing,” citing the apparent disregard for established disability rights frameworks. The group reminded stakeholders that the *Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018*, guarantees equal opportunities in employment, education, health, and access to public services. It also noted that the Kogi State Disability Rights Law, which aligns with the federal legislation, affirms the rights of PWDs to fair representati...

The Kogi State Government has condemned the violent protest staged on Wednesday at the Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, by some persons under the banner of the Association of People Living with Disabilities (PWDs). The protesters, who locked the university’s main gate and disrupted academic activities, claimed they were being marginalized in employment opportunities at the institution. However, in a statement issued in Lokoja on Thursday, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the claims as “baseless,” stressing that the institution has employed several qualified persons living with disabilities in both academic and non-academic roles. He listed examples to include Rofiat Ozohu Ohize, who has been serving as Technologist II in the Chemistry Department since 20th May 2024; Ahmed Rufai Omuya, who assumed duty on 11th January 2024 as an Assistant Executive Officer in the Registry Department; an...

The Initiative for Grassroots Advancement in Nigeria (INGRA) has called for deeper collaboration between civil society and government to strengthen legislative openness and improve governance in Kogi State. This was part of the resolutions contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a one-day inception meeting of the *Strengthening Legislative Openness and Oversight Project for Improved Governance in Kogi State (Kogi LOOP)*, held in  Lokoja.  The project is sponsored by the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room with support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The meeting was attended by the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, members of the House Standing Committee on Information, the Deputy Clerk and Committee Clerk, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, representatives of the State Steering Committee, Non-State Actors (NSA) of the Open Government Partnership (OGP), youth groups, and media practitioners. In its ...

By Bishop Aturu The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project in Kogi State has continued the distribution of N40,000 Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) grants to schoolgirls, following the earlier flag-off of the scheme. The initiative is aimed at enhancing school enrollment, retention, and transition for adolescent girls, thereby strengthening their contribution to the state’s social and economic development. At the exercise held on Tuesday at GYB Model Science Secondary School (GYBMSSS), Lokoja, the AGILE team issued preloaded ATM cards to parents and guardians of beneficiaries. Speaking at the event, the Kogi State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ahmed Oricha, commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for keeping to his promise of ensuring that ATM cards are distributed across the state to all beneficiaries.  He stressed that the disbursement was not a one-off, but a follow-up activity towards the Governor’s pledge that the AG...