DAILYUPDATES

A non-governmental organisation, Akoni Care Foundation, has awarded scholarships to 30 boys of the Universal Basic Education Secondary School, Gadumo, in Kogi State. The foundation who gave 500 free books to Students also donated 300 menstrual pads to female students, encouraging them to uphold proper personal hygiene as part of efforts to support adolescent girls. Addressing the students, the Executive Director of the Foundation, Deborah Agbonika, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to promoting the welfare and development of both boys and girls. According to her, empowering young people remains central to building a healthier and more productive society. “Akoni Care Foundation will continue to empower both the girl-child and the boy-child so that together they can contribute to the nation of our dreams,” Agbonika said. “This scholarship programme is designed to encourage the boys to stay focused on their education because education remains the...

All is set for the highly anticipated homecoming concert of fast-rising music sensation, Jaysix Ilawo, holding today in Lokoja, Kogi State. In recent years, Kogi State has steadily emerged as a vibrant entertainment hub, hosting numerous mega events that continue to thrill audiences across the Confluence State. The latest addition is the Jaysix Ilawo Homecoming Concert, which will parade an impressive lineup of artistes from within and outside the state. According to the organisers, the concert will take place today, Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the Muhammadu Buhari Square (formerly Old Stadium), Lokoja. Speaking ahead of the event, a member of the organising team said, “This homecoming concert is our way of celebrating Jaysix Ilawo, a proud son of Kogi State whose music is gaining national attention. The people of Lokoja should expect an unforgettable night of pure entertainment.” Another organiser added, “We have put everything in place to ensure a safe, exciting and w...

A Non-Governmental Organisation, the Kogi Project for Good Governance, has presented an Award of Excellence to Amb. Coach Gabriel Abinu in recognition of his remarkable contributions to humanity. The organisation described Abinu as a selfless leader whose consistent service to the people of Kogi State and Nigeria at large has continued to inspire many. “Ambassador Coach Gabriel Abinu remains a distinguished personality whose work speaks volumes. This award is aimed at encouraging him to continue his exemplary service to his people,” the group stated. The organisation further urged individuals and leaders to emulate Abinu’s dedication to community development, noting that true legacy lies not in the accumulation of wealth but in meaningful contributions to society. “The Kogi Project for Good Governance calls on everyone to follow the brave steps of Amb. Coach Gabriel Abinu in making positive impacts in the society. His selfless service will always be remembered. We pray that...

... Expels Hon. Francis Orogu, As Zonal Secretary, Nominate Hon Francis OdeIgbe As Secretary. COMMUNIQUE ISSUED AT MEETING OF THE NORTH CENTRAL ZONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY (PDP) HELD ON THE 28TH November, 2025 AT ABUJA. The North Central Zonal Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party after its duly convened meeting held on the 28th November, 2025 at Abuja deliberated extensively on matters affecting the unity, discipline, and over all integrity of the party vis a-vis the illegal resolution of a non-existent and illegal National Working Committee (NWC). Following a comprehensive review of the resolution of a self-acclaim National Working Committee unknown to law appointing an acting zonal Chairman in the person of Hon Francis Orugu the North Central Zonal Secretary, the committee received and considered report from relevant internal organs of the party regarding acts deemed to be gross misconduct and multiple violations of the party c...

Kogi Projector For Good Governance has  honoured  the Special Adviser to Kogi State Governor on Labour Matters, Comrade Onuh Edoka, with a Presidential Award for Guardianship of Workers Rights and Social Justice. ‎ ‎The Award was presented to Comrade Onuh Edoka on Friday in Lokoja by the Organization at its end of year ceremony. ‎ ‎Receiving the Award, Comrade Onuh Edoka dedicated the award to the Chief servant of Kogi State, His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo whose commitment to service delivery is second to none. ‎ ‎Comrade Onuh Edoka who was represented by Doctor Samuel Atuluku noted that there was no alternative to good governance and urged the body to intensity efforts on its training programmes in line with its vision for the society. ‎ ‎The Special Adviser who was also the father of the Day,  appealed to the Organization to promote good governance through inclusive discussions and dialogue with political office holders at all levels ...

…As Rector Cautions Students' Leaders Not to Be Used by Mischief Makers Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, has inaugurated new executive members for the Students’ Union Government (SUG) and the National Association of Kogi State Students (NAKOSS) for the 2025/2026 Academic Session. The inauguration ceremony was held on Thursday, 27th November, 2025 at the 200-Twin Lecture Theatre of the Polytechnic Main Campus, Lokoja. In his address, the Rector, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, congratulated the new SUG and NAKOSS executive members, charging them to uphold the ideals of transparency, accountability and genuine student-focused unionism.  Professor Usman urged them to align their activities with the values they campaigned on, emphasizing that student leadership must be rooted in service, sincerity and responsibility. He cautioned the executive members against allowing themselves to be used by mischief-makers who are fond of circulating fake news within the Polytechnic community...

Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, CON, has described the passing of renowned Islamic scholar and one of Nigeria’s most revered spiritual leaders, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, OFR, as a rude shock. Bello, who referred to the late Sheikh as a father figure, said he benefitted immensely from his wisdom, teachings, counsel, and unwavering support during his tenure as governor of Kogi State. “I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of our eminent Islamic scholar, teacher, and father, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi. He was like a father to me, and his guidance and wisdom were invaluable while I served as governor of Kogi State,” he said. Describing the late scholar’s character and spiritual impact, Bello noted that Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was a selfless, compassionate, and peace-loving leader who dedicated his life to the advancement of humanity, the promotion of peaceful coexistence, and the propagation of Islam in the most decorous and truthful manner. While praying for Al...

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Abu Ali, the Etsu of Bassa Nge Kingdom and former Military Governor of Bauchi State. In a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described the late monarch as a father figure, a stabilizing force, and a pillar of wisdom whose leadership contributed immensely to peace, unity, development in Kogi State and Nigeria. He noted that the news of the passing of the revered Etsu Bassa Nge was received with profound sadness, recalling the late Alhaji Abu Ali’s exceptional service, discipline, and commitment to the wellbeing of his people throughout his lifetime both as a royal father and as a distinguished military officer. “I recall the dignified and majestic leadership of His Royal Majesty, Alhaji Abu Ali, whose wise counsel and unwavering commitment to the unity of our state consistently provided guidance and strength...

.Describes Him as a Pillar of Traditional Authority… Former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, CON, has described the passing of the Etsu Bassa-Nge, His Royal Highness, Brigadier General Abu Ali (rtd), as a monumental loss, not only to Kogi State but to Nigeria as a whole.  Bello said the late Brigadier General was a courageous defender of the nation’s territorial integrity who served with uncommon patriotism, discipline, and genuine  commitment. As the paramount ruler of the Bassa-Nge Kingdom, Bello noted that the late Abu Ali was instrumental to the stability and relative peace enjoyed in his domain, recalling his close working relationship with him during his time as governor.  He described the late royal father as a man of peace whose reign was marked by profound humility, wisdom, and compassion. He noted that Brigadier General Abu Ali (rtd) left an enduring legacy of leadership, distinguishing himself as a traditional ruler, a fi...

The Kabba/Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency APC Active Youths Forum has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Sunday Karimi for re-election in 2027. The endorsement was made at a press conference held this morning in Kabba, Kogi State, where the youth group praised the duo's commitment to national development and constituency service. Hon. Kehinde Afolabi, Coordinator of the youth forum, commended President Tinubu's leadership and policy reforms, citing infrastructural renewal and economic growth. Senator Karimi was lauded for his legislative efforts, described as a true representative of the people, accessible, accountable, and devoted to community development. Afolabi stated, "We have absolute confidence in Senator Karimi's leadership, capacity, and loyalty. He has consistently demonstrated that the needs of his people come first." The youth group cited Senator Karimi's achievements in education, water and sanitation, road rehabilitation...

Julitola International Schools, Lokoja (JTIS), one of Kogi State’s leading educational institutions, has announced major steps to curb bullying within its learning environment and in communities across the state. In a statement issued on Friday, the Head of School, Mr. Adedayo Adewunmi, revealed that the institution successfully concluded its 2025 "End Bullying Week", a comprehensive awareness campaign designed to promote safety, empathy, and respect among children and teenagers. Adewunmi explained that this year’s programme placed strong emphasis on addressing bullying at home, in schools, and within communities. “This year’s programme focused strongly on bullying in our communities, its dangers, and the urgent need for all stakeholders schools, parents, government agencies, and community leaders to work together to put an end to it,”he said. He added that students participated in various activities including seminars, group di...

***The Adekalu Bulls' win signals a bright future for Nigerian softball, with their success paving the way for continued excellence in the sport In a thrilling finale, the Adekalu Bulls Baseball and Softball Club of Lagos emerged victorious in the 2025 edition of the Professor Ndi Okereke National Softball Championship, defeating Team Bayelsa with a decisive 7-3 score in Port Harcourt. The Bulls, considered underdogs at the beginning of the tournament, showcased their prowess in a composed performance that led them to a well-deserved victory. Coach Cynthia Sunday, who guided the team through the intense final, expressed her confidence in the players despite the tough challenge they faced. Their dedication and hard work paid off as they secured the championship title, much to the delight of their supporters. Engr. Tope Alabi, President of the Adekalu Baseball and Softball Club, highlighted the significance of the team's achievement, stating that their victory was ins...

Preparations are in full swing as the Ona-Ara Humanitarian Foundation gears up for its 4th edition of the annual ONA-ARA DAY, set to take place on the 29th of December, 2025.  The foundation, known for its philanthropic efforts in the Ekirin-Adde community of Kogi State, will be hosting a series of events aimed at providing support and aid to the underprivileged. According to the founder ESV Olugbenga Collins Rotimi, the theme of this year's event is "Building a better world together. One act of kindness at a time", reflecting the foundation's commitment to making a positive impact through small, meaningful gestures. The event will feature a wide range of activities, including a medical outreach program, distribution of palliatives to widows and the underprivileged, and an empowerment program to help individuals build sustainable livelihoods. One of the highlights of the event will be the commissioning of a new farm site, aimed at providing sustainable foo...

Chapel of Freedom International, City of Faith Branch holds 13th anniversary  annual convention with the theme: *Armour for warfare. Chief Host. Bishop John Ibenu and His Wife, Rev. Margret Ibenu, other invited Guests include, Pastor Enojo Ocheja, Pastor Mike Baba. A statement by the the Host Pastor, Ben Adejoh explained that the 13th anniversary annual convention of the church, will hold at Old Poly Quarters, before Post Flood Estate, Lokoja, Kogi State  According to the statement, Bishop Dr. John and Rev. Mrs. Margaret Ibenu  serve as Chief Host, while Pastor Ben Adejoh is the Host  Peter Agala Wealth will be guest Artist and freedom voices.

Concerned stakeholders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi West Senatorial District have condemned the action of the APC chairman in Kogi State, Hon. Abdullahi Bello, during the recent decampment rally in honor of former Governor Captain Idris Wada. The stakeholders alleged that Bello imported thugs to disrupt the rally, embarrass a distinguished serving senator, and humiliate Vice President Kashim Shettima, National Chairman of the APC, Professor Yaldratiwa, and other dignitaries at the event. In a statement by Alhaji Mohammed Sanni, the stakeholders expressed disappointment with Bello's actions, saying it showcased his high-handedness and bullying tactics. This action was demonstrated and seen by many when Abdullahi Bello saw the way the serving senator was warmly welcomed and received by party supporters into the rally arena; he quickly signaled his imported thugs to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere and serene environment, creating a chaotic situatio...

Ambassador Gabriel Abinu, a respected philanthropist and community advocate in Kogi State, has celebrated  Lokoja/Koto leader, Suleiman Baba Ali, on the occasion of his birthday. In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday, Ambassador Abinu described Baba Ali as “a man of exceptional virtues whose leadership, humility, and commitment to community development continue to inspire many.” He noted that Baba Ali’s influence in Lokoja, Koto, Kogi State, and beyond has remained profound, adding that his contributions to human capital development and peacebuilding are widely acknowledged. “I want to join all well-wishers to celebrate Suleiman Baba Ali as he adds another year to his life,” Abinu said. “May Almighty Allah continue to bless him, protect him, and grant him the desires of his heart.” Abinu further applauded Baba Ali’s mentorship and fatherly disposition. “Suleiman Baba Ali is a father and a leader who has contributed meaningfully to the development of Kogi State and N...

My heartfelt gratitude goes to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and to my leader, His Excellency, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, for their exceptional support, honour, and kind words throughout my 60th birthday celebration. Your encouragement means more than words can express, and I remain humbled by your unwavering belief in my journey. "I also extend my sincere appreciation to our party leaders, elders, stakeholders, youths, women, support groups, friends, and well-wishers across Osun State and beyond. I am particularly and profoundly grateful to my co-contestants in the Osun Project, for the 2026 election, for their thoughtful wishes on my day. Every message, visit, prayer, and gesture of goodwill made this week-long celebration truly memorable and deeply meaningful. This moment is not just a celebration of age, but a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to the future of Osun. As we move closer to the governorship primary, I humbly call on all our pr...

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has been honoured as Nigeria’s Best Rule of Law Compliant Governor at the 7th Annual Criminal Law Review Conference held in Abuja. The conference, organised by the Rule of Law Development Foundation, focused on the theme “Navigating Change: Emerging Trends and Challenges in Nigeria's Criminal Justice System.” It brought together leading jurists, legal scholars, and policymakers from across the country. Convener of the conference, Mr. J.B. Daudu (SAN), commended Governor Ododo for his unwavering commitment to the rule of law and for demonstrating practical leadership in strengthening justice institutions. He highlighted the Governor’s sponsorship and registration of 120 delegates from Kogi State—an unprecedented number—facilitated through the efforts of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Muizudeen Yunus Abdullahi (SAN). Daudu noted that this gesture underscored the Governor’s belief in capacity building and h...

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has been honoured as Nigeria’s Best Rule of Law Compliant Governor at the 7th Annual Criminal Law Review Conference held in Abuja. The conference, organised by the Rule of Law Development Foundation, focused on the theme “Navigating Change: Emerging Trends and Challenges in Nigeria's Criminal Justice System.” It brought together leading jurists, legal scholars, and policymakers from across the country. Convener of the conference, Mr. J.B. Daudu (SAN), commended Governor Ododo for his unwavering commitment to the rule of law and for demonstrating practical leadership in strengthening justice institutions. He highlighted the Governor’s sponsorship and registration of 120 delegates from Kogi State—an unprecedented number—facilitated through the efforts of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Muizudeen Yunus Abdullahi (SAN). Daudu noted that this gesture underscored the Governor’s belief in capacity building and h...

....promises new party members equal opportunity Vice President , Kashim Shettima, in Lokoja, formerly welcomed former Kogi state Governor, Idris Wada to the All Progressives Congress( APC). Shettima said he was in Kogi state to welcome the former Governor and other defectors to the APC on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.  Apart from Wada who was a PDP Governor while in power in Kogi state, other defectors were mainly from SDP and ADC. The Vice President who arrived the Muhammadu Buhari Complex, Lokoja which was the venue of the event at 4.40 p.m , handed over the APC flag and symbol (the broom) to Wada and other defectors few minutes later. He also told the new party members to see the APC as one family where members are allowed to grow. Governor Ahmed Ododo who introduced the new APC Members to the Vice President, said they were good leaders who would also contribute positively to the further growth of the party. Governor Ododo said the formal declaration of the...

The Member representing Ogori/Magongo State Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, Honourable Bode Ogunmola, has revealed that his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is in consonance with the wishes and aspirations of his constituents. Ogunmola said his people desire to be in the mainstream of politics and lean support to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, saying that it is for this reason, that he had to heed their call. Speaking on the sideline of the defection of thousands of opposition party members at a well attended rally in Lokoja on Monday, where former Governor Idris Wada, also defected to the APC, he said that the interest of his constituents would be best served in the APC. The Lawmaker, who won election to the House on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), maintained that if he choose to remain in the PDP, it would amount to a great disservice to the people of Ogori/Magongo Local Government and would be tantamount to ...

Barring any last - minute change, a former Governor of Kogi State Capt. Idris Ichalla Wada is set to defect to the ruling All Progressive Congress, (APC). Capt. Wada is  expected to decamp alongside other notable leaders and members of opposition parties in Kogi state.  An invitation message sent to critical stakeholders of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state by the State Party Chairman Hon. Abdullahi  Bello sighted by our news team reads;  “You are specially invited to attend a crucial Decamping ceremony for His Excellency Capt Idris Ichalla Wada former Governor of Kogi State and other notable members of various opposition political parties into the fold of All Progressives Congress (APC). The schedule is as follows: Date:    Monday 17th November 2025. Venue: Muhammadu Buhari Square, Lokoja. Time:   10am prompt. Dignitaries are to be seated before the arrival of the National Chairman of our great party” Through divine prov...

The Member representing Yagba East Constituency at the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Emmanuel Obaro, has commissioned a series of projects aimed at boosting security, empowering women, and improving local infrastructure. The projects include patrol vehicles and motorcycles to security agencies, lock-up shops at Itedo Makutu, cash support grants for market women, classroom renovations at Community Secondary School, Isanlu, and drainage construction in flood-prone areas. Speaking at the ceremony held at the Itedo-Makutu Central Garage, Isanlu, Hon. Obaro said the projects were part of his broader vision to promote people-centered governance through economic empowerment, improved education, and enhanced community security. “Today’s event is not just a ceremony; it is a statement of commitment, responsibility, and people-centered governance,” he said. “It reflects our dedication to empowering our people economically while ensuring their safety, education, and well-being.” ...

***A united front for safety and progress in Ijumu LGA under exemplary leadership The exemplary leadership and commitment of Alhaji Ibrahim Haruna, the Chairman of Ijumu Local Government Area, in ensuring the security and well-being of residents has caught the attention of Comrade Rufus Obafemi, a prominent figure in the community.  Comrade Rufus Obafemi commends Chairman Haruna for his proactive stance in addressing the security challenges facing Ijumu LGA. He highlighted the Chairman’s unwavering dedication to collaborating with local vigilantes, hunters, and the Joint Task Force (JTF) to root out criminals and ensure the safety of the community. Chairman Haruna's willingness to venture into the bush and confront bandits head-on demonstrates his strong commitment to maintaining peace and security within the local government. In addition to his efforts on the ground, Chairman Haruna has also been instrumental in aligning his vision with that of His Excellency, Governor...

The Kogi State House of Assembly has suspended the Chairman of Ibaji Local Government Area, Emmanuel Onuche, over alleged gross misconduct and actions said to have tarnished the image of the state. The suspension was announced during the House plenary on Wednesday. Onuche was directed to hand over the affairs of the council to his Vice Chairman, Victoria Okolo, pending the conclusion of investigations. The House resolved that an effective investigation into the allegations against the embattled chairman would not be possible while he remains in office. During the session, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, constituted a five-member committee headed by Hon. Bode Ogunmola to investigate the allegations. Other members of the committee are Hon. Ishaya Omotayo Adeleye, (Ijumu) Hon. Asema Baba Haruna, (Adavi), Anthony Ujah, (Olamaboro) and Hon. Bin-Ebaiya Shehu Tijani, (Lokoja 1 ) while Muhammed Bello is to serve as clerk of the committee.   The committee i...

The Academic Board of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, at its 127th meeting held on Monday, 10th November 2025, considered and approved the second semester results of ND II and HND II students from various departments and programmes in the institution.  The breakdown indicates that a total of fifty-six (56) students graduated with Distinctions across various departments and programmes; with 20 in the National Diploma (ND II) programmes and 36 in the Higher National Diploma (HND II) programmes. The meeting held at the Academic Office Complex was presided over by the Chairman, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, who commended the Central Result Verification Committee headed by the Deputy Rector, Dr. Samuel Taiwo Olowo for a thorough and decent job.  He also commended Deans of Schools, Heads of Departments and the Director Information Technology Resources Centre (ITRC) for their commitment, diligence and resourcefulness throughout the period of results processing and consider...

 Hausa Community  across the three (3) Warri Local Government areas, Delta state, have conferred the highest traditional title of “Madugu”, on Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, a lawmaker representing Warri North/Warri South/Warri South West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, for his supports to their wellbeing. The title conferment performed during Annual Arewa Day Warri Celebration held along NPA Expressway in Warri South Council area, yesterday, was witnessed by dignitaries from all walks of life, as well as both the state and national Executives of Arewa and Muslim groups from the northern part of the country. Speaking at the occasion, the Delta state Chairman, Arewa Community, Alhaji Danjuma Mohammed, noted that the choice of Hon Thomas Ereyitomi, was made after a careful appraisal of his immense contributions to both the collective and individual wellbeing of Hausa indigenes within his constituency. He stated that that even at a short notice when some...

An EFCC witness, Mshelia Arhyel Bata, in the alleged money laundering trial of former Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi, on Monday, re-affirmed that fund withdrawals by the state government did not breach any banking law. Bata stated this while being cross-examined by the ex-governor’s counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja. He also admitted that Bello’s name did not appear as beneficiary in the account statements presented as evidence in court. Bata, a Compliance Officer with Zenith Bank, testified as 4th prosecution witness (PW-4). The prosecution had concentrated on withdrawals by Abdulsalam Hudu. Under cross-examination, Daudu drew the witness’ attention to certain withdrawals by Umar Comfort Olufunke, which he said the prosecution did not mention while being led in evidence-in-chief. The PW-4 told the court that Olufunke’s withdrawals, in multiples of N10 million, were between December 2017 and April 2018, with beneficiaries b...