Kogi Govt Reaffirms Support for Culture, Girl-Child Education and Unity at 2026 Ovia Osese Festival

By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh 
April 18, 2026

The Kogi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving culture, promoting girl-child education and strengthening unity across the state.

Speaking at the grand finale of the 2026 Ovia Osese Cultural Festival in Ogori, Ogori-Magongo Local Government Area on Saturday, Governor Ododo, represented by his Deputy, Comrade Joel Salifu, described the festival as more than a celebration.

According to him, Ovia Osese represents the history, identity and values of the Ogori people, while also serving as a tool for education, tourism and economic development.

The Governor commended the organisers of the festival, especially the President of the Ogori Descendants Union, Dr. Gabriel Aiso, for making this year’s event bigger and more impactful.
Governor Ododo also highlighted the importance of educating and empowering the girl child. He noted that Ogori has become an example to others because more girls are now in school in the community.
He said the Kogi State Government remains committed to supporting girls through education and empowerment programmes. He recalled that under the AGILE Project, the government gave financial support to 13,359 girls in Kogi State to help them remain in school.

The Governor further described Ovia Osese as a major cultural asset to Kogi State, noting that it is the only UNESCO recognised cultural festival in the state. He said the government will continue to support the festival and improve tourism infrastructure to attract more local and international visitors.

Governor Ododo also spoke about the achievements of his administration in the areas of security, road construction, education, healthcare, agriculture and workers’ welfare.

He said the government has strengthened security across the state, is carrying out major road projects, has made primary and secondary education free, and is improving healthcare services.

The Governor called on all ethnic groups, communities and social classes in Kogi State to continue to live together in peace. And urged the people not to allow politics, religion or differences in background to divide them.

“Whether we are Ebira, Igala, Okun, Bassa, Nupe, Ogori or Kakanda, we are one people with a common destiny,” he said.

Governor Ododo congratulated the people of Ogori on the successful hosting of the 2026 Ovia Osese Cultural Festival and prayed for continued peace, progress and unity in Kogi State.

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