Kogi State Governor Urges Media Partnership for Development and Accountability
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has issued a compelling appeal to journalists, urging them to champion both robust accountability and the proactive promotion of the state’s significant economic and investment potential. Speaking at the 2026 Press Week of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Governor Ododo underscored the indispensable role of media practitioners as key stakeholders in the intricate tapestry of governance and development.
Represented by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, the governor articulated his presence at the event as that of a “friend and beneficiary” of the media’s professional acumen. He lauded journalists for their unwavering patriotism, their commitment to responsible reporting, and their persistent endeavors in projecting Kogi State positively to both national and international audiences. Governor Ododo emphasized the media’s enduring position as “the conscience of the people” and a crucial conduit facilitating communication between the government and its citizenry. He acknowledged that their diligent work has been instrumental in shaping Kogi’s identity as the “Confluence of Opportunities.”
The governor made it clear that his administration does not seek a media landscape that shies away from the truth. Instead, he expressed a desire for a media that possesses the courage to highlight governmental shortcomings while simultaneously demonstrating the commitment to collaborate in forging effective solutions. “We do not seek a media that withholds the truth. We want a media that has the courage to point out our shortcomings and the commitment to partner with us in solving them,” he stated.
Governor Ododo further encouraged journalists to strike a harmonious balance, advocating for a dual approach that couples constructive criticism with a dedicated effort to showcase the state’s inherent strengths. These strengths, he noted, encompass its rich natural resources, its substantial agricultural capacity, and its uniquely strategic geographical positioning at the confluence of the mighty Niger and Benue Rivers.
Addressing Security and Infrastructure Challenges
In his address, Governor Ododo provided insights into his administration’s approach to security, emphasizing a strategic shift from purely reactive measures to a more proactive stance. He detailed significant investments being made in forward-thinking strategies designed to effectively curb criminal activities across the state. While acknowledging that persistent challenges remain, the governor conveyed a strong sense of optimism, asserting that Kogi State is indeed making steady and tangible progress in this critical area.
Turning his attention to infrastructure, Governor Ododo identified power supply as a paramount concern for the residents of Kogi State. He provided assurances that deliberate and targeted steps are being implemented to enhance regulatory frameworks and foster stronger collaborations within the energy sector. The ultimate aim, he explained, is to ensure a more consistent and reliable delivery of electricity to all citizens.
Economic Reforms and Future Outlook
Governor Ododo also took the opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “bold economic reforms.” He elaborated that these reforms have demonstrably increased the financial resources available to states, thereby empowering them to make more substantial investments in vital sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and food production.
He reaffirmed Kogi State’s unequivocal support for the continuation of these economic reforms beyond the current term, expressing profound confidence in their long-term capacity to foster robust national development.
The governor concluded his remarks by extending his sincere congratulations to the Correspondents’ Chapel on the successful culmination of their Press Week. He reiterated his administration’s steadfast commitment to nurturing and sustaining a strong, dynamic, and mutually productive relationship with the media fraternity. This collaborative spirit, he emphasized, is essential in the ongoing pursuit of a more prosperous and flourishing Kogi State for all its inhabitants.
