DAILYUPDATES

By Oshiomieh Micheal. Comr. Onuh Edoka, Special Adviser to the Kogi State Governor on Labour Matters, has lived a life of purpose and dedication.  His journey, marked by exceptional service and a passion for labour welfare, is a testament to his unrelenting spirit. Born in June 1968 into a noble Christian and royal family, Edoka's early life was shaped by values of service and leadership. Edoka's academic pursuits began at Demonstration Primary School, Makurdi, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate in 1982.  He proceeded to Imane Community Grammar School, obtaining his WASC/GCE in 1987. Driven by an unrelenting passion for knowledge and service, Edoka later pursued his educational career in Health Education from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, graduating in 2010. His professional career began as a Public Health Attendant in Olamaboro LGA in 1989. Exceptional work ethics quickly earned him higher responsibilities, serving as an Environmental Heal...

The 2025/2026 Academic journey for Freshmen of the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences Enugu (FUAHSE) began on a note of vision and responsibility as the Institution formally welcomed its new intakes during a well packaged Orientation Programme akine to the Culture of Excellence and quality known with the University. Held on Thursday at the University Auditorium with the over one Thousand Five hundred Students, full of hopes and eagerness to excel. The University Vice Chancellor, Prof John Emaimo in his address, delivered by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Cajethan U. Nwadinigwe, charged the freshmen to see their Admission as “not the destination, but the doorway” to a purposeful future. Describing their entry into the University as holding a “blank cheque,” he challenged them to determine what legacy they would inscribe on it in the next 10 to 20 years. He urged students to choose friendship wisely, warning that associations at this critical stage could “make or...

All is set for the official inauguration and induction of new members of the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), Kogi State Chapter, as the institute deepens its presence in the state. The Kogi State Chairman of ISPON, Dr. Friday Sani Makama, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, describing the event as a milestone in the promotion of safety standards and professional practice in Kogi State. According to him, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo will be conferred with a National Safety Award in recognition of his administration’s commitment to the protection of lives and property. The award will be formally presented during the inauguration and induction ceremony scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, at the Grand Royal Hotel, NIWA Quarters, Lokoja. Makama said the governor was carefully selected for the honour following what he described as “deliberate and strategic policies” aimed at strengthening safety standards and improving security across the st...

A Federal High Court, sitting in Lokoja has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission, to restore and conduct elections in suppressed constituencies in Kogi State. Delivering his judgement, Isah A. Danshan of the Federal High Court Lokoja, declared as mandatory for elections to be conducted in those suppressed constituencies. He lamented the injustice over the years, particularly that available fact point to the existence of those constituencies at the creation of the State. He therefore directed that having been proven beyond reasonable fact, insisted that the independent national electoral commission must without hesitation conduct elections into the suppressed constituencies in 2027. In his reaction, Barr. Ayo Kunle Jonathan, the lead legal practitioners to the petitioner expressed satisfaction with the judgement urging INEC to obey the judgement by conducting elections into the suppressed constituencies in the State. Also speaking, the Executive Chairman, K...

A member of the Kogi State Assembly, Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Obaro, has received two prestigious awards from renowned institutions. Representing Yagba East State Constituency and serving as Chairman of the House Committee on Physical Planning, Urban and Regional Development, member of several other committees, Dr. Obaro has been conferred with a Doctor of Public Administration degree by London Bridge Business School, UK, and has also been named a Distinguished Fellow of the Africa Institute of Public Administration, Ghana as a Certified Public Administrator. These awards recognize his contributions to public administration sector. Dr. Obaro has distinguished himself as a versatile legislator and businessman who consistently gives back to his constituents through youth and women empowerment, infrastructure development, and security initiatives.  He has donated vehicles and motorcycles to support security agencies in Yagba East Local Government. Recently...

By Michael Oshiomieh As political conversations gradually begin to shape the contours of the 2027 general elections, one name that continues to resonate strongly across Ankpa Federal Constituency is Comr. Onuh Edoka, former Kogi State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and current Special Adviser on Labour Matters to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. Widely regarded as a principled and people-oriented leader, Edoka’s emergence in early opinion soundings as a potential frontrunner for the Ankpa Federal Constituency seat has sparked growing interest among constituents. His leadership trajectory, defined by steadfast commitment to workers’ welfare and social justice, has earned him credibility within and beyond the labour movement. During his tenure as Kogi State NLC Chairman, Edoka was known for his firm but strategic engagement with government and stakeholders, championing improved working conditions, labour rights, and constructive dialogue. His approach combined advoc...

As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) releases the elections timetable for the 2027 general elections, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) prepares for its party primaries for various positions, a groundswell of support is building for Chief Olugbemi Femi Michael, a veteran journalist, publisher, seasoned politician, and respected community leader, to be given the party's ticket for the Kabba/Bunu State Constituency. With his proven track record of service, leadership acumen, and deep understanding of the constituency's needs, Chief Michael is widely regarded as the best candidate to take the party to victory and drive development in the area. A prominent son and High Chief in Kabba district of Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, Chief Michael has consistently demonstrated a deep sense of duty to his community, and his bid for the APC ticket is driven by a desire to serve and contribute to the growth and prosperity of Kogi State. His leadership s...

The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has officially issued the License/Certificate of Declaration for the Ajaokuta Economic City Free Trade Zone. The certificate was presented to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, at the NEPZA Headquarters in Abuja. According to the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the issuance of the license marks a historic milestone in Kogi State’s economic transformation agenda and signals the formal take-off of one of Nigeria’s most strategic industrial corridors. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEPZA, Olufemi Ogunyemi, congratulated the Governor and the people of Kogi State, expressing confidence in the commitment and preparedness of the State Government to translate the vision of the Economic City into a thriving investment hub. In his response, Governor Ododo expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment o...

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has said the Ajaokuta Economic City proposed to host the Kogi-Hunan Free Trade Zone will begin operations this year, with the groundbreaking of the project expected in the second quarter of 2026. Governor Ododo made this known when he led a delegation of state officials to receive the Declaration Certificate designating the Ajaokuta Economic City as a Free Trade Zone from the management of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA).  The certificate was presented at the headquarters of the NEPZA in Abuja by its Managing Director, Olufemi Ogunyemi, following the Federal Government’s approval of the designation. The approval followed earlier authorisation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in November 2025 for the establishment of the 4,000-hectare Ajaokuta Economic City in Kogi State. Governor Ododo said the Free Trade Zone status provides a strong legal and investment framework that will attract local and foreign investors, ...

In the spirit of Ramadan and as part of sustained humanitarian efforts, the Chief of Staff to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Alhaji Ali Bello, has provided daily iftar meals to about 700 Muslim faithful observing the fast in Kogi Central. The outreach, which marks the second phase of his annual Ramadan iftar programme, involves the distribution of iftar meals to Muslims participating in this year’s fasting period. A source present at one of the mosques where the meals were distributed said a similar gesture was carried out last year and was also sponsored by the Chief of Staff, Alhaji Ali Bello. According to the source, the Chief of Staff prefers to keep the initiative low-profile. “The Chief of Staff does not want publicity for this Ramadan charity. Aside from this initiative, we have also observed that he has been empowering youths, women and the less privileged quietly, without seeking media attention. “But it is important that we appreciate his gesture. This act emphasises...

‎By Andrew Ataguba ‎As the journey to the occupation of various political seats ahead of twenty twenty seven general elections gathers momentum, there are games, gimmicks and of course, political calculations as to who takes what, why and under which party among other considerations. ‎ ‎It is no longer news, that politics is all about interest, which is why it is said and believed that there is no permanent enemy in politics, indeed, the decamping from one party to another by politicians attests to this fact. ‎ ‎As 2027 General elections draw closer, the intricks has begun, with political jobbers on the increase, not minding the fact that effective representation is key and must not be compromised, otherwise, the pace of growth and development of such Constituency would have been compromised as well. ‎ ‎It is on this note that I write to educate key stakeholders, political leaders and the policians at large that it is time to X-ray the past, view the present and of course, ...

The Federal University of Allied Health Sciences Enugu (FUAHSE), Faculty of Dental Health, Department of Dental Therapy, with the Dental Therapists Registration Board of Nigeria on Tuesday, 24th February 2026, formally Inducted its Dental Therapy Graduands in a colourful and glamorous ceremony  that marked the  transition from Students to Certified Professionals. The Induction and Oath-taking ceremony drew members of the University Management, Regulatory Bodies, Professional Associations, Families, and well-wishers who gathered to witness the historic milestone in the lives of the new Dental Therapists. Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Emaimo, the University Registrar, Barr. Dr. Chris Igbokwe, delivered a stirring address congratulating the Inductees for reaching a defining moment in their Professional careers. “You are no longer just students,” he declared. “You are now entrusted as members of a respected Dental Family as Dental Therapists. You are ent...

By Jude Obioha In a country where activism often clashes with national cohesion and where loud voices frequently overshadow steady hands, Matthew Tonlagha represents a rare Nigerian archetype. This bridge builder fights fiercely for his people while working tirelessly for the peace, stability and economic future of Nigeria. His journey from the creeks of the Niger Delta to global engagement is not merely a personal success story. It is a powerful narrative of resilience, citizen diplomacy and quiet nation-building. Tonlagha’s story begins not with privilege but with adversity. Born into a disciplined military family in Delta State, his early life was marked by profound physical challenges after complications from an ill-administered polio vaccine impaired his mobility. For nearly a decade, he depended on his mother’s strength to attend school and navigate daily life. Social stigma, financial hardship and the early loss of his father could have silenced his ambitions. Instea...

Renowned philanthropist, Ambassador Coach Gabriel Abinu, has congratulated Hon. Idris Kasim on his emergence as Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State. In a statement issued to journalists on Sunday, Abinu described the newly elected party chairman as a visionary and committed leader capable of repositioning the party for greater success ahead of future elections. He noted that Kasim’s emergence was well deserved, citing his dedication, loyalty, and years of active participation in party affairs. “I want to use this opportunity to congratulate my dear brother, Hon. Idris Kasim, on his emergence as the new APC Chairman in Lokoja Local Government,” Abinu said. “His emergence did not come as a surprise to me because he worked tirelessly for it and truly deserves it. He has consistently demonstrated commitment to the growth and unity of our great party.” Abinu expressed optimism that the new chairman would deploy his wealth...

The Wife of the Kogi State Governor, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has urged Kogites at home and in the diaspora to unite and maximise the spiritual significance of the Ramadan fast and the Lenten season for the overall progress of the state. In a goodwill message to Muslim and Christian faithfuls, the First Lady emphasised the need for adherents of both faiths to reflect on the core values of devotion to the Creator, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion, principles that have sustained humanity for centuries. She noted that strengthening these values would deepen unity, foster social cohesion, and accelerate sustainable development across the state. Hajia Sefinat further observed that the coincidence of the two fasting periods was divinely significant, urging Muslims and Christians to commit themselves to spirituality and fervent prayers for the people, leaders, and the overall development of Kogi State. The First Lady reassured citizens of her continued commitment to support...

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called on in the people of the state to embrace religious tolerance, vigilance and peaceful coexistence as Muslims around the world begin fasting in the holy month of Ramadan. In statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, the Governor described Ramadan as a sacred period of fasting, prayer, reflection and spiritual rejuvenation for the Muslim Ummah. According to the Governor “the holy month of Ramadan offers an opportunity for believers to strengthen their relationship with Almighty Allah and reaffirm commitment to the values of compassion, charity, humility and self-discipline.” Governor Ododo also urged Muslim faithfuls to use the Ramadan period to pray for sustained peace, stability and development of Kogi State and Nigeria at large. The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting freedom of worship and promoting peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths across the state. He praye...

The Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Professor Salihu Sanusi Avidime paid a familiarisation visit to the Polytechnic’s Itakpe Campus on Tuesday, 17th February, 2026 as part of ongoing engagements with staff and stakeholders across the institution. Addressing the staff members during the visit, the Rector described the School of Engineering as central to the mandate and original purpose for which the Polytechnic was established, stressing the need to strengthen technical education and practical training within the institution. Professor Avidime noted that the visit was aimed at familiarising himself with staff members, understanding their challenges, and identifying areas requiring urgent attentions to enhance productivity and institutional growth. He reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to improving staff members’ welfare, acknowledging the critical role staff members play in achieving academic excellence and institutional stability. The Rector called for t...

The Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), Kogi State Chapter, has passed a vote of confidence in the Speaker of Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Umar Aliu Yusuf, in recognition of his leadership and commitment to the welfare of legislative staff. The union, through its executive members, also pledged total loyalty to the Speaker’s leadership, assuring him of their continued support in ensuring the smooth functioning of the Assembly. In a statement signed by PASAN Chairman, Comrade Omotala Emmanuel Ayodele, the staff expressed satisfaction with the Speaker’s administration, noting that his leadership has strengthened staff morale and fostered a more inclusive working environment within the legislature. According to the union, while previous Speakers may have carried staff along to some extent, none, based on their findings, has matched the inclusive and open-door leadership demonstrated by Rt. Hon. Yusuf. PASAN particularly highlighted his human-centered ...

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Aminu Abubakar Suleiman, has declared his intention to contest the Kogi East Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections. Suleiman made the declaration at a stakeholders’ meeting attended by party leaders and supporters across the district. He said his ambition is anchored on five key community priorities: infrastructure accountability, power sector advocacy, youth productivity, agricultural development, and transparent engagement. Describing himself as a committed grassroots politician and philanthropist, Suleiman noted that his aspiration is driven by a desire to reposition Kogi East for sustainable growth and inclusive development. “My ambition is not borne out of personal interest but out of a genuine desire to serve our people selflessly,” he said. “Kogi East deserves purposeful representation that will prioritise infrastructure development, empower our youths, strengthen agriculture, and ensure transparency in go...

A coalition of non-governmental organisations  Challenged Parenthood Initiative (CPI), Heinrich Böll Stiftung (HBS), and Arctic Infrastructure (AI) has called on the Kogi State Government to urgently address the worsening humanitarian conditions of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Ganaja community following recurrent flooding. The groups made the appeal during an advocacy visit to the Kogi State Ministry of Agriculture and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), where they presented the Ganaja Charter of Demands and Flood Resilience Action Plan (2025). Executive Director of CPI, Eunice Abimbola Agbogun, lamented the devastating impact of annual flooding on livelihoods, infrastructure and social services, noting that women, children and persons with disabilities bear the brunt of the crisis. “The proximity of the River Niger has continually exposed Ganaja to recurring floods with devastating consequences on livelihoods,” she said. “Women, children and persons...

A community policing non-governmental organisation, Kogi East Neighborhood Watch (KENW), has appealed to Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, to urgently empower the Naval Outpost in Idah with patrol vehicles to strengthen security operations across Kogi East Senatorial District. In a statement issued on Tuesday by its Director of Public Communication, Wing Commander Iye Ayefu (rtd), KENW described the appeal as both urgent and necessary, stressing that mobility remains a critical component of modern military and security operations. According to Ayefu, the Naval Outpost in Idah currently lacks adequate patrol vehicles to effectively respond to crises, establish new security posts, and deploy personnel beyond Idah particularly to Ibaji Local Government Area, where the establishment of a new post has been strongly advocated. “Their area of responsibility covers the entire Kogi East zone, including Ibaji and Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Areas, where security challenges...

The Kogi State Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Abubakar Gegu, has launched a free medical treatment program for 800 citizens of the state. The outreach tagged Tinubu/Ododo Medical outreach is in partnership with Diamond Foundation for the needy, is sponsored by Engr. Bashiru Gegu, Kogi State Commissioner For Solid Minerals and Natural Resources. The program, which includes medical consultations, medications, vaccinations, surgeries, and specialist care, aims to support President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Gov. Usman Ahmed Ododo's efforts in providing good leadership. The program kicked off in Gegu Beki, Kogi LGA, at the weekend, will cover four locations, with 200 sick persons treated per location.  The location are in Ganaja Community of Ajaokuta, Ankpa and Kabba Bunu LGA of Kogi State, said his essence for service is complementing the good works of the two outstanding leaders. Engr. Gegu described the initiative as his support for the l...

Mangal Cement Industry has commissioned an additional solar-powered borehole in Iluhagba, it's host community in Kogi State, as part of its Community Development Agreement (CDA). Speaking at the event, which was well-attended by the community, the General Manager, Transport and Logistics, Muhammad Umar Sanda, reaffirmed the company's commitment to maintaining a cordial relationship with the host community and implementing all agreements to enhance living standards. He noted that the company has already delivered 6 solar-powered boreholes as outlined in the CDA, and the additional one is necessary to support the existing ones, ensuring access to clean, potable water. The elated monarch of the community, Oba David Samuel Olayemi, commended the company's generosity for aiding the community, saying the people are grateful for the support, especially during the dry season. He commended Mangal Cement Industry for its efforts, saying the company has lived up to expecta...

Calls for arrest of perpetrators. The National Executive Council of the Igala Cultural and Development Association ICDA has condemned in strong terms the recent  brutal killings of four Ibaji citizens by yet to be apprehended hoodlums. This is as it calls on the state government and security agencies not to leave any stone unturned until the perpetrators are arrested to face the full wrath of the law.   In a statement signed by the  President of the Association Commodore Dr. Ahmed Abdullahi rtd  and made available to Journalists today , decried the action of the marauders who derive pleasures in the killing and destruction of people's property even without provocations. The ICDA urge Gov. Ododo and security agencies to upscale measures to arrest the attackers and bring them to justice to serve as deterrent to indulgent in wanton destruction and killings of innocent people. While urging the government and law enforcement agencies to be vigilant and pay act...

Dr. Michael Onyilo,  representing the Director General,  Niger State Agency for the Control of AIDS, visited a partner organization to distribute condoms during the one day commemoration of International day of condoms at ACOMN state office.  This initiative is part of an ongoing collaborative effort to combat the spread of HIV in the region. International Condom Day The visit is to celebrate our partners and also celebrate with ACOMIN as they celebrate International Condom day, a global observance dedicated to promoting HIV prevention and safe sexual health practices.  Dr. Onilo emphasized that while condoms are a primary focus, the day serves a broader purpose of raising general awareness about HIV prevention. Strategic Timing (Valentine's Day) The speaker noted the strategic importance of the date, occurring just before Valentine's Day. He highlighted that:  * The agency aims to provide preventive measures ahead of celebrations that ma...