DAILYUPDATES

Former Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, has extended warm felicitations to the Governor of Imo State, Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum and Renewed Hope Ambassador, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, as he marks his 67th birthday. Bello described Governor Uzodinma as a courageous statesman, visionary leader, and consummate democrat who has continued to steer Imo State toward econom ic expansion, infrastructural transformation, and social stability. He noted that Uzodinma’s commitment to good governance and his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) have distinguished him as one of the most dependable pillars of the ruling party, and a nationalist whose voice commands respect in the nation’s political landscape. In a statement signed by the former governor and made available to journalists by the Director of his media office, Ohiare Michael, Bello further applauded Governor Uzodinma’s outstanding contr...

By Samuel Temiloluwa The Asiwaju of Ayere Kingdom, Chairman of Grosvenor Global Services Limited, and Founder of Prince Olatunji Olusoji Foundation (PROOF), Asiwaju Prince Olatunji Olusoji, has declared that there is no doubt that Okun land desires to produce a Governor of Kogi State, and it remains sacrosanct, but only after the completion of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo's 8-year tenure in 2031. He disclosed this yesterday in Iyara, headquarters of Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, while speaking at the grand reception to mark his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). According to him, he urged Okun people to trust Governor Ododo, assuring them that he is a man who believes in power shift, hence the need to support his re-election bid in 2027. He promised that he will do everything humanly possible to support Governor Ododo to win his re-election and make Kogi State great. Asiwaju Olatunji urged the Governor to ignore the news emanating from s...

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has congratulated the Founder of Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation, Mrs Esther Tonlagha, on her conferment with an Honorary Doctorate of Science (D.Sc) Degree in Community Development and Empowerment by the Federal University, Otuoke. The honoree is the wife of Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, an accomplished Ijaw businessman with huge investments in oil and gas, and engineering solutions in various sectors. She was presented with the award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to community development and empowerment, during the maiden combined convocation ceremonies of the university held on 8 December, 2025 at Otuoke in Bayelsa State. Otuaro noted that the honour was a testament to Mrs Tonlagha's unwavering commitment and dedication to community development and empowerment through her foundation. He described Mrs Tonlagha as an amazon and a philanthropist with a large heart, whose selfless s...

By Bishop Aturu  The Kogi State Ministry of Education, through the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project, has trained 130 facilitators drawn from non-formal education centres across the three senatorial districts of the state, to strengthen the delivery of second-chance and alternative education programmes. The two-day capacity-building training, held under AGILE Sub-Component 2.2C (Second Chance/Alternative Education) in partnership with the Participation Initiative for Behavioural Change in Development (PIBCID), focused on enhancing facilitators’ understanding of post-literacy manuals, harmonising instructional methods, and promoting participatory and adult learning techniques. Speaking at the opening, the State Project Coordinator (SPC), Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Oricha, described the training as a strategic intervention aimed at improving access, quality, and equity in education delivery. He noted that non-formal ...

The Kogi State Government has announced renewed efforts to curb the circulation and sale of fake, substandard, and expired drugs across the state. Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Drugs and Medical Supply Management Agency, Pharm. Yunusa Salamat Onize, made this known while speaking with the State House of Assembly Correspondent shortly after defending the agency’s 2026 budget in Lokoja. Pharm. Onize said the agency has intensified strategies to end the distribution of fake drugs, adding that mechanisms have also been deployed to curb the diversion of drugs meant for public health facilities. According to her, “If you visit our agency today, you will see that the State Government has built a fully equipped quality control laboratory. This is part of our commitment to ensuring that no fake or substandard drug finds its way into our system.” She added that the government recently sponsored a study tour to strengthen the agency’s capacity to combat the menace. “We will no...

Kabba - The Women in Agriculture Association, Kabba/Bunu LGA, has appointed Engr. Matthew Ajigi as its new patron. The appointment was made at a ceremony attended by over 100 members of the association, representing all wards in Kabba/ Bunu Local government area of Kogi State, North Central. The association expressed its confidence in Ajigi's leadership abilities, citing his progressive mindset and simplicity as key factors in their decision. In his acceptance speech, Ajigi expressed gratitude for the honour and pledged to support the association's growth and development. He acknowledged the association's strength and resilience, noting that it has remained a formidable force in the community for over 15 years. Ajigi emphasized the importance of agriculture in driving economic growth and development, and prayed for an end to insecurity challenges facing the sector. He assured the association of his commitment to providing swift attention and support, and thanked...

Lokoja - Hon. (Dr.) Emmanuel Obaro, member representing Yagba East State constituency at the Kogi State House of Assembly, has been awarded the Best Performing State Legislator in Kogi State by Advocacy for Youth Leadership in Governance Nigeria for the year 2025 The award was presented at an event in Lokoja today, with the National President of the group, Comrade Ajinomoh Abiodun, citing Dr. Obaro's proficiency in management leadership and his outstanding contributions to the development of Kogi State. The organisers said that the honour was bestowed on Dr. Obaro for his “proficiency in management leadership, resourcefulness, competence, and outstanding performance as one of the best performing state legislators in Kogi State. The body described him as an “experienced and savvy grassroots politician, renowned philanthropist of international repute, and a dynamic legislator whose works continue to inspire youths across the country.” The group further commend...

As the Ebira Welfare Association of Radio Kogi marks its maiden Cultural Day in Lokoja, the Kogi State Capital, the Special Adviser to Kogi State Governor on Labour Matters, Comrade Onuh Edoka has called for the promotion of culture as a necessity in human existence. ‎ ‎Comrade Onuh Edoka who made the remark on Wednesday at the Radio Kogi Headquarters in Lokoja, noted that the initiative should be appreciated, especially when considering the place of culture in human existence. ‎ ‎The Special Adviser appreciated the initiative of the organizers, stressing that such idea should be emulated in all Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the government in Kogi State. ‎ ‎"It is important to note that Radio Kogi has already set a pace in which other offices should emulate, especially for the purpose of cultural promotion and integration", he stated. ‎ ‎Comrade Edoka emphasized that not less than nine labour leaders have been appointed into various offices by the presen...

Lokoja - Hon. (Dr.) Emmanuel Obaro, member representing Yagba East State constituency at the Kogi State House of Assembly, has been awarded the Best Performing State Legislator in Kogi State by Advocacy for Youth Leadership in Governance Nigeria for the year 2025 The award was presented at an event in Lokoja today, with the National President of the group, Comrade Ajinomoh Abiodun, citing Dr. Obaro's proficiency in management leadership and his outstanding contributions to the development of Kogi State. The organisers said that the honour was bestowed on Dr. Obaro for his “proficiency in management leadership, resourcefulness, competence, and outstanding performance as one of the best performing state legislators in Kogi State. The body described him as an “experienced and savvy grassroots politician, renowned philanthropist of international repute, and a dynamic legislator whose works continue to inspire youths across the country.” The group furthe...

A Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) advocate, Ms. Joyce Ajifa Haruna, has called on the Federal Government to strengthen national legislation to effectively combat technology-facilitated Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Ms. Haruna made the appeal in Lokoja during a road walk held to commemorate this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. She explained that tackling digital violence requires updated laws, the deployment of digital protection tools, well-defined national strategies, and accessible support services  all of which, she said, are crucial to curbing rising cases of online abuse. Speaking on the campaign theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,”she stressed the urgent need to eliminate all forms of digital violence targeted at women and girls across Nigeria. According to her, this year’s campaign presents a critical opportunity for government to pass and enforce laws that criminalise digital violence, protect perso...

A Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) advocate, Ms. Joyce Ajifa Haruna, has called on the Federal Government to strengthen national legislation to effectively combat technology-facilitated Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Ms. Haruna made the appeal in Lokoja during a road walk held to commemorate this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. She explained that tackling digital violence requires updated laws, the deployment of digital protection tools, well-defined national strategies, and accessible support services  all of which, she said, are crucial to curbing rising cases of online abuse. Speaking on the campaign theme, “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls,”she stressed the urgent need to eliminate all forms of digital violence targeted at women and girls across Nigeria. According to her, this year’s campaign presents a critical opportunity for government to pass and enforce laws that criminalise digital violence, protect perso...

The Leadership of the Kogi State Obidient Movement extends its warmest felicitations to an exceptional leader and statesman, High Chief Peter Ameh , on the occasion of his birthday. High Chief Ameh remains a beacon of inspiration whose political philosophy is firmly anchored on competence, character, and capacity. His guidance has continued to shape a new generation of leaders committed to ideology-driven, people-centered, and service-oriented politics. Over the years, High Chief Ameh has demonstrated unwavering support for Mr. Peter Obi and the ideals of the Obidient Movement. His sacrifices, mentorship, and tireless advocacy have played a significant role in sustaining the collective vision of a New Nigeria — a nation we believe is both possible and achievable. As we join the nation and well-wishers in celebrating him, we recognize his courage, leadership, and consistent commitment to justice, good governance, and accountability. We pray for renewed strength, divine p...

The Chairman and Managing Director of Chevron Nigeria/mid-Africa business unit, Mr. Jim Swartz,at the weekend disclosed that Chevron has recorded zero incidents of sabotage in the last one year. Swartz, gave the commendation when he visited the NUPRC’s corporate headquarters in Abuja on December 4, 2025. “Chevron has not recorded any oil theft or attacks on our pipelines this year. This is the longest we’ve gone without oil theft,”Swartz said. Chevron is a member of the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), a subgroup of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry. OPTS is a private industry group that is dedicated to the exploration, development, and production of Nigeria’s oil and gas resources in a sustainable and beneficial manner for the Nigerian people. It represents the interests of approximately 31 oil and gas companies that collectively operate approximately 85 per cent of Nigeria’s oil. The record breaking success story of Chevron may not be unconnected with the gian...

Renowned philanthropist, Ambassador (Coach) Gabriel Abinu, has continued his empowerment initiative for elderly residents in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, providing financial support aimed at easing their daily needs. The community-based intervention, which has now run consistently for four months, has drawn widespread commendation from beneficiaries and community leaders. Speaking on Saturday after disbursing ₦20,000 each to dozens of elderly persons in Lokoja, Amb. Abinu who was represented by Shaibu Bello reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to uplifting vulnerable groups across the state. “I am always elated to give back to my people,” he said. “Whatever I am doing today has no ulterior motive. This is purely for humanity, and I will continue this service until my last breath on earth.” He stressed that true humanitarian service requires sacrifice and consistency, noting that the wellbeing of the elderly remains a priority for him. “These elderly ones have served soci...

 The Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum (NDSF) has defended National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, describing Senator Francis Fadahunsi's call for his removal as "outdated" and "simplistic". In a statement signed by its Chairman, Barrister Andrew Mene, the NDSF said Senator Fadahunsi's suggestion that only a retired military officer can lead the NSA is a "narrow view of national security leadership" and "ignores the reality of modern security threats". The group praised Ribadu's experience, integrity, and strategic leadership, saying he has demonstrated the ability to coordinate intelligence, combat terrorism, and address complex security challenges. The NDSF noted that global best practices show that national security leadership is not limited to military officers, citing examples of successful civilian NSAs in countries like the US, UK, and India. The statement urged Senator Fadahunsi to support the ongoing secu...

Fadahunsi's Call to Sack Ribadu Rejected by Niger Delta,   The Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum (NDSF) has defended National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, describing Senator Francis Fadahunsi's call for his removal as "outdated" and "simplistic". In a statement signed by its Chairman, Barrister Andrew Mene, the NDSF said Senator Fadahunsi's suggestion that only a retired military officer can lead the NSA is a "narrow view of national security leadership" and "ignores the reality of modern security threats". The group praised Ribadu's experience, integrity, and strategic leadership, saying he has demonstrated the ability to coordinate intelligence, combat terrorism, and address complex security challenges. The NDSF noted that global best practices show that national security leadership is not limited to military officers, citing examples of successful civilian NSAs in countries like the US, UK, and India. The...

Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed his condolences to the family of the late Senator Isah Obaro Abonyi. Senator Abonyi represented what is now Kogi Central Senatorial District (formerly part of Kwara South) in the Senate from 1979 to 1983, leaving a lasting legacy of dedication to public service and the development of his constituency. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo hailed the late senator as a distinguished statesman and patriot whose contributions to the growth and unity of Kogi State are deeply appreciated. The Governor noted that Senator Obaro's life of integrity, humility and service earned him respect across the state and nation.  The Governor emphasized that the late senator was always in touch with leaders across the state, offering valuable contributions toward development, described his passing as a significant loss not only to his family and Kogi Central but to the entire state. Governor Ododo prayed ...

Renowned philanthropist, Ambassador Coach Gabriel Abinu, has congratulated the Maigari of Lokoja and Chairman of the Lokoja Local Government Traditional Council, His Royal Highness Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammadu Kabir Maikarfi IV, as the revered monarch marks his 61st birthday. In a goodwill message personally signed by him, Amb. Abinu described the Maigari as “a father, a unifier and a visionary leader whose reign has continued to usher in peace, progress and development across the Lokoja Kingdom.” He added that since ascending the ancestral throne, the Maigari has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership. “His Royal Highness has carried everyone along—youths, elders, women and leaders across communities. His inclusive leadership style is attracting development and fostering harmony among our people,” he said. While praying for long life, wisdom and good health for the monarch, Abinu reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Maigari’s efforts toward upl...