DAILYUPDATES

By Abu Micheal. Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto, OON, is a remarkable, quintessential, legal Luminarian, serving as the Project Coordinator of Kogi State Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) Project. Her remarkable footprints are evidently seen in her environmental advocacy. As former Special Adviser on Environment, under the administration of former Gov Idris Wada, Project Coordinator NEWMAP and now Project Coordinator Acresal, Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto embodies a blend of competence, passion, and impactful engagement, making her outstanding in all her roles. Barr. Ladi Ahmed Jatto is a remarkable project Coordinator known for her exceptional staying power and impactful contributions, particularly in Kogi State ACReSAL. With her exceptional qualities as a leader, who leads by example and always in front of those she leads,  demonstrates her visionary leadership, driving projects like ACReSAL forward effectively in the State. Barr. Ladi's staying power in all ...

A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Blessing Udo Amos (KG/24C/1374), has trained no fewer than 50 secondary school students in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, on public speaking and communication skills as part of her Community Development Service (CDS) project. The month-long initiative, tagged “The Future Forge,” was designed to build students’ self-esteem, enhance critical thinking, and improve their linguistic competence across selected schools in the state. Speaking during the grand finale of the project held at Crowther Memorial College, Lokoja, Blessing Amos said she initiated the programme to help young learners overcome challenges of self-expression and comprehension. “The project was designed to create a safe space where students can grow in confidence and communication,” she said. “My goal was to strengthen their speaking and thinking abilities while helping them believe in their voices.” Amos appreciated her sponsors and the NYS...

PROFOUND APPRECIATION I wish to express my profound appreciation to esteemed friends, colleagues, superiors, loved ones and well-wishers for the overwhelming show of love, goodwill, pleasant surprises, and priceless kindness extended to me on my 53rd birthday.  The numerous calls, text messages, prayers, thoughtful gifts and pleasant surprises I received were deeply touching and truly humbling.  Your gestures made the day remarkably memorable and filled my heart with immense joy and gratitude. Your thoughtful expressions of affection and goodwill reaffirmed the value of genuine relationships built on mutual respect and understanding. The warmth, attention and sincerity reflected in your messages and gestures spoke volumes, and I am sincerely appreciative of the time and effort you all invested to make my day special. Please, accept my heartfelt appreciation for standing by me and for making the day not just a celebration of life, but a reflection of shared friendsh...

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has assured of a fair, transparent and credible process in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Ekiti State. The Governor, in a statement through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, promised to be fair to all stakeholders and ensure that the exercise reflects unity, peace, and internal democracy within the party. Governor Ododo emphasized that his commitment is to oversee a process that will be acceptable to all stakeholders and party members, noting that the committee under his leadership will uphold the integrity and democratic values of the APC. He assured that every stakeholder will be carried along in line with the guidelines of the party to produce a flag bearer for the forthcoming governorship election in Ekiti State. Governor Ododo, who chaired the APC Governorship Primary Election Committee in Ondo State in April 2024, expressed confidence that the Ekiti exercise will be peaceful a...

The Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Kogi State Chapter, under the leadership of its President, Dr. Yetunde Owa, in collaboration with the Civil Society for Cancer Eradication in Nigeria and the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum (NBAWF), commemorated the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month with impactful activities aimed at saving lives and promoting early detection. Recognising the increasing burden of breast cancer and the importance of timely intervention, the initiative centred on advocacy, education, and accessible healthcare services.  As part of the campaign, MWAN Kogi and its partners organised a health talk titled “Understanding Breast Cancer: Prevention, Early Detection and Care.” Women were educated on breast health, risk factors, lifestyle modifications, and the importance of seeking early medical attention. Participants were also taught breast self-examination techniques and the value of regular clinical screening. ...

The Federal government has restated is commitment to strengthening healthcare institutions for advancement of healthcare delivery system in Nigeria. The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako made the reaffirmation at National Orthopaedic Hospital Enugu's Matriculation and Capping Ceremony held at the hospital, recently. He stressed that the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting health training institutions across the country to enhance the quality of healthcare delivery. Represented by the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences Enugu (FUAHSE), Professor John Emaimo, the Minister congratulated the matriculating students and commended the management of the National Orthopaedic Hospital for its dedication to producing competent health professionals. Salako described the hospital as a vital partner in Nigeria’s healthcare development efforts and assured that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare wi...

There are growing pressures on former President Goodluck Jonathan to abandon any plans to contest the 2027 presidential election, with key Niger Delta leaders reportedly urging him to instead support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid. Sources revealed that former militant leader, High Chief (Dr.) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, is spearheading the campaign for Jonathan to shelve his political ambition. Tompolo is said to be leading a coalition of prominent Niger Delta figures advocating for the continuation of President Tinubu’s administration beyond 2027. The development follows a recent high-profile visit by Tompolo to Jonathan’s country home in Otuoke, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, on October 16. It marked Tompolo’s second major public appearance in over a decade. Accompanied by the Managing Director of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Kestin Pondi, and the APC’s 2023 Bayelsa deputy governorship...

The attention of Kogi State Polytechnic Lokoja has been drawn to misleading publications by some bloggers in respect of the payroll irregularities that took place in the institution in 2014; six years before the current leadership of the Polytechnic came on board. The issue began with a complaint by one Mr Abdul Hassan Sani which necessitated a letter from the Office of the Auditor General, Kogi State, dated 3rd August, 2021, requesting the Polytechnic to provide explanation as to why the name of the complainant was removed from the payroll. The Registrar in a reply  dated 31st August, 2021, explicitly stated that the complainant presented an appointment letter as Assistant Executive Officer, but there was no evidence of documentation by the said complainant in the Polytechnic, no evidence of posting to any section of the institution for primary responsibilities and there was no record of his clearance in the screening that took place in 2016. In the same reply, the Reg...

Renowned philanthropist, Ambassador Coach Gabriel Abinu, has congratulated the Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Area, Alhaji Abdullahi Ademu, on his first anniversary in office, describing his leadership as “progressive, inclusive, and result-driven.”   In a goodwill message issued on Tuesday, Abinu commended Ademu for what he called a year of visible transformation across the local government, noting that his administration has redefined governance at the grassroots level.   He said, “We are super proud of Alhaji Abdullahi Ademu for his remarkable achievements since assuming office. His leadership has brought about unprecedented development across all sectors in Lokoja Local Government, which hosts the seat of power in Kogi State.”   Abinu lauded the chairman’s commitment to good governance and alignment with the policy direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, saying such synergy has further accelerated growth...

King Solomon Olowo, a distinguished Okun son, a renowned philanthropist, and humanitarian, has extended his warm congratulations to the Executive Chairman of Ijumu Local Government Area, Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna DStv, on the momentous occasion marking his first year in office. In a heartfelt message, King Solomon Olowo, the CEO of Skyfree Travels, commended Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna for his exemplary service and dedication to the people of Ijumu. He described the Executive Chairman as a hardworking, dynamic, and visionary leader who has brought about positive change and progress to the local government area. Under the leadership of Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna, Ijumu has seen significant development and growth, with innovative initiatives and compassionate governance leading the way. King Solomon Olowo praised the Executive Chairman for his commitment to improving the lives of the people and for creating a community that thrives on progress and inclusivity. As Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna celeb...

***announces impressive cash prizes for the prestigious Prof. Ndi Okereke Championship The much-anticipated Prof. Ndi Okereke Senior Softball Championship, now in its third edition, is set to kick off in Port Harcourt from the 11th to the 18th of November 2025 at the Garden City.  The tournament, sponsored by Coach Jacob Dennis Albert Dede, promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and skill in the world of softball. Coach Jacob has announced a generous cash prize for the Senior Female category, with the 1st prize winner set to receive ₦1,000,000.00, the 2nd prize winner ₦500,000.00, and the 3rd prize winner ₦300,000.00. This significant amount is sure to add an extra layer of competition to the tournament and motivate teams to give their all on the field. Coach Gerard Hall from Washington DC will be present at the tournament to provide technical support, showcasing his expertise and enhancing the level of competition at the Prof. Ndi Okereke Senior Softball Champio...

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has flagged off the distribution and installation of 30 units of 500kVA transformers to improve electricity supply and enhance rural development in 30 communities across the three senatorial districts of the state.  Speaking at the official flag-off ceremony of the Phase One of the statewide rural electrification project at the Government House in Lokoja, Governor Ododo described the event as a major step forward in fulfilling his promise to light up communities and empower the people. "It is with great pride and a profound sense of duty that I flag off the first phase of the distribution and installation of 30 units of 500KVA transformer strategically distributed across the three senatorial districts of our beloved state,” he said. He explained that the initiative was a direct response to the needs and requests received from communities through the Ministry of Rural and Energy Development, adding that every request was treated w...

Stakeholders at a review meeting on the just concluded OGP Global Summit held in Spain have commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his servant leadership and unwavering support for open governance. The group observed that Kogi State Government, under the leadership of Governor Ododo, has shown readiness to join the elite league of inclusive openness and partnership for transparent governance. The stakeholders urged Governor Ododo to maintain and amplify the momentum towards inclusive openness, stronger partnerships, and transparent governance that delivers inclusive growth and tangible benefits for all citizens of Kogi state. They called for the expansion of anticipatory citizen participation in policy design and public service improvement initiatives, promote open data initiatives, freedom of information access, and proactive disclosure to deepen trust in governance. In the he communiqué issued at the end of a one-day Post-OGP Summit 2025 knowledge sharing session in Lok...

The people of Kogi state has unanimously endorsed President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Kogi state governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for a second term in office in 2027. The endorsement marked the climax of mother of all rallies organised by the APC stakeholders in the state under the chairmanship of Senator Smart Adeyemi.  Leader of APC in Kogi state and former governor of the state Yahaya Adoza Bello formally moved a motion for the endorsement of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu for a second term in office. The motion was seconded by chairman of the organizing committee Senator Smart Adeyemi. In a separate motion, Yahaya Bello as APC leader in the state  also moved another motion for the endorsement of Gov Ahmed Usman Ododo for a second term in office, the motion was seconded by the Speaker Kogi state house of assembly Rt. Hon Aliyu Umar Yusuf.  Earlier in his remarks, leader Kogi APC ex-Gov Yahaya Bello said, "Today we are here for a single purpose, to endorse our fat...

Maintaining personal and professional honour and dignity by Judges and Lawyers in the practice of the legal profession in Nigeria is panacea to sustenance of the credibility and value of the profession before litigants and the general public according to the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Hon. Justice Josiah Majebi. Justice Majebi made this assertion yesterday in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, when he received the new leadership of the Lokoja branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Confluence Bar, in his office at the judiciary headquarters. The Chief Judge was reacting to the expression of gratitude and appreciation by the Bar for the role played by Judges of the state judiciary in ensuring the successful marking of the association’s 2025 Law Week themed: Strengthening the Bar-Bench Synergy in the Effective Delivery of Justice and Nation Building. In his reaction to the theme of the Law Week, the CJ stressed the need for the Bench and the Bar to be more synergetic i...

The Federal University Lokoja (FUL) on Saturday held its 9th Convocation Ceremony at the Convocation Ground located within the university’s permanent site, marking another milestone in the institution’s steady growth and commitment to academic excellence. The colourful and well-attended ceremony attracted dignitaries from across the country, including top government officials, traditional rulers, captains of industry, members of the academic community, and proud parents of graduating students. Among the prominent personalities who graced the event were former Senate President, Senator David Mark, Senator Tunde Ogbeha, the Maigari of Lokoja, the Olu of Oworo, and the Roggan of Eggan, who joined other eminent Nigerians in celebrating the university’s achievements and the success of the graduating class. In his convocation address, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, congratulated the graduating students for their perseverance and hard work throughout their academic j...

In a groundbreaking turn of events, Mr. Uche Odozor, the President of the Nigerian Baseball and Softball Association, has emerged victorious as the new President of World Baseball and Softball Confederation (WBSC) Africa. His appointment has sparked excitement and hope for a new era of African baseball and softball, as he unveiled his vision for "A New Dawn for African Baseball and Softball" during his election acceptance speech at the WBSC Africa Congress in Bangkok Thailand. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Odozor expressed deep gratitude and acknowledgement to his fellow delegates, distinguished guests, and the entire baseball and softball family across Africa. He highlighted the importance of unity and teamwork in propelling the sports forward, and recognized the contributions of past leaders and pioneers who kept baseball and softball alive on the continent during challenging times. Mr. Odozor outlined strategic pillars for his presidency, focusing on four key a...

The Obidient Movement has expressed deep concern over what it describes as the “alarming wave of political defections”by governors, former lawmakers, and career politicians from opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). In a strongly worded statement signed by its North Central Spokesperson, Comrade Emmanuel Idakwo, the movement said the ongoing exodus is not driven by ideology or patriotism but by “desperation for protection and political survival.”  “What we are witnessing is not the strengthening of democracy but the gathering of all political criminals under one umbrella,” Idakwo said. “They are united not by vision or values, but by fear of accountability and the Nigerian people.” The group alleged that the APC has become a refuge for politicians with questionable records, recalling former APC Chairman Adams Oshiomhole’s controversial remark that “once you join the APC, all your sins are forgiven.” According to the statement, this mentality ...

The National President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, has lauded High Chief. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo for his frantic efforts in restoring peace in the Niger Delta region through his pipeline surveillance contract job by empowering thousands of youths, men and women in the region over the last three years, while appealing to the Federal Government for expansion of the scope of Tantita Security Services and Maton Engineering contracts. Lokpobiri made the commendation and appeal on Tuesday at the Community Critical Stakeholders Appreciation meeting held at the EUI Event Centre in Port Harcourt City, courtesy by Tantita Security Services Limited and Maton Engineering Nig Limited, two major oil and gas infrastructure surveillance contractors in the region. The ceremony’s mandate was to review significant progress and officially appreciate the vital role community leaders and traditional rulers play in securing Nigeria...

In a significant move to strengthen community relations and foster peace, the Ndigbo community resident in Ebira Land paid a high-profile courtesy visit to the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Muizudeen Yunus Abdullahi, SAN. The visit, which took place in the Attorney-General's office, was marked by expressions of solidarity, pledges of support, and frank discussions aimed at resolving internal conflicts within the Igbo community. A representative of the Igbo community stated that the primary purpose of the visit was to formally introduce their newly crowned traditional ruler in Kogi Central to the Attorney-General, solidifying the leadership structure of the community within the state. The delegation expressed profound appreciation for the good work of the Attorney-General, offering prayers for a successful tenure. They also formally introduced the President of the community, High Chief Sebastian Ani, to the Honourable Attorney-General. During ...

The Babayemi Vanguard Team has celebrated Chief (Mrs.) Abosede Olorunfemi Babayemi on the occasion of her birthday, describing her as a woman of exceptional character, compassion, and leadership. In a statement signed by Folorunsho Joseph, the Committee Clerk on  House Standing Committee on Security, Vigilante, and Home Affairs, Kogi State House of Assembly, the group commended Chief Babayemi for her “unwavering commitment to humanity and selfless contributions to community development.” Joseph described the celebrant as “a virtuous and detribalized woman whose kindness and leadership have touched countless lives.” He added that Chief Babayemi’s influence continues to inspire many across different spheres of society. “Her good works speak volumes. She has shown what it truly means to lead with empathy, integrity, and vision. Chief Babayemi remains a beacon of hope to many, especially women and youths,” Joseph said. While offering prayers for her continued go...

The Babayemi Vanguard Team has celebrated Chief (Mrs.) Abosede Olorunfemi Babayemi on the occasion of her birthday, describing her as a woman of exceptional character, compassion, and leadership. In a statement signed by Folorunsho Joseph, Committee Clerk of the House Standing Committee on Security, Vigilante, and Home Affairs, Kogi State House of Assembly, the group commended Chief Babayemi for her “unwavering commitment to humanity and selfless contributions to community development.” Joseph described the celebrant as “a virtuous and detribalized woman whose kindness and leadership have touched countless lives.” He added that Chief Babayemi’s influence continues to inspire many across different spheres of society. “Her good works speak volumes. She has shown what it truly means to lead with empathy, integrity, and vision. Chief Babayemi remains a beacon of hope to many, especially women and youths,” Joseph said. While offering prayers for her continued good he...

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, as a pride of the accountancy profession, commending his professionalism, integrity, and application of sound financial principles in governance. The President gave the commendation when he received a delegation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) at the State House, Abuja, shortly after the 55th Annual Accountants’ Conference. The delegation, led by ICAN President Mallam Haruna Nma Yahaya, and IFAC President Mr. Jean Bouquot, visited the President to reaffirm the profession’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and national development. In his remarks, President Tinubu applauded members of the accounting profession for their pivotal role in driving economic reforms and ensuring fiscal responsibility, noting that accountants remain indispensable in the nation’s journey toward sustainable development. “The ...

No fewer than 35 students have graduated with First Class honours from the Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Kogi State. The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, disclosed this on Monday during a press conference marking the commencement of activities for the 9th Convocation Ceremony of the university. Giving a breakdown of the results, Professor Akinwumi explained that 760 students graduated with Second Class (Upper Division), 2,287 with Second Class (Lower Division), 383 with Third Class, and one student with a Pass, bringing the total number of undergraduates to 3,466. He added that 838 students graduated from the postgraduate programmes, while 747 completed the diploma programmes. According to him, Sherif Ohieku from the Department of Geology emerged as the overall best graduating student, with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.77. Professor Akinwumi noted that the university has made remarkable strides in academics, research, innova...

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has congratulated the publisher of NewsDiaryOnline, Mr. Danlami Nmodu, on his election as the new President of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP). Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described the election of Mr. Nmodu as a demonstration of unity, maturity, and professionalism among members of the Guild. The Governor commended the peaceful and transparent conduct of the election, noting that the rancour-free process in which most of the candidates emerged unopposed  reflected the strong bond and mutual respect within the Guild. He urged the new GOCOP President to lead with fairness, transparency, and accountability while sustaining the ideals of responsible journalism and professional ethics that have earned the Guild its place as a leading voice in Nigeria’s media space. Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting press freedom, describing the media ...