***Governor Ododo’s dedication to education shines bright on Kogi’s horizon, says Honourable Commissioner Wemi Jones
The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Honourable Wemi Jones FCIB, extends warm felicitations to the Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency Alhaji Usman Ododo, on the occasion of his two-year anniversary in office.
In a statement released by the Commissioner, he commended Governor Ododo’s unwavering commitment to the development of the educational sector in Kogi State.
Under Governor Ododo’s leadership, the state has witnessed remarkable progress and transformation in the education system. One of the standout achievements of his administration is the implementation of a Free Education Policy, which has ensured that children at the primary and secondary school levels have access to quality education without financial constraints. This bold initiative has significantly increased school enrollment rates and improved literacy levels across the state.
Furthermore, Governor Ododo’s administration has embarked on a massive school renovation and modernization project, aimed at creating conducive learning environments for students. The investment in infrastructure has not only enhanced the overall learning experience but has also boosted the morale of both students and teachers alike.
In addition to improving physical infrastructure, the Governor has prioritized the training and welfare of teachers. Continuous professional development programs have been put in place to enhance the skills and capabilities of educators, while improved staff welfare packages have been implemented to motivate and retain high-quality teaching staff in schools.
The AGILE Intervention Program, spearheaded by Governor Ododo, has been instrumental in building modern schools in every local government area of Kogi State. This initiative aims to expand access to education and establish centers of excellence that will serve as beacons of academic excellence for future generations.
Governor Ododo’s administration has also made significant investments in tertiary education. Scholarships and bursaries have been approved to support students from Kogi State in their pursuit of higher education, with over ₦963.5 million allocated for bursary allowances in his first and second year.
Looking ahead, Governor Ododo has outlined plans to recruit teachers to fill the gaps in identified areas of need in accordance with the state’s educational plans. The “One Child, One Book” initiative has also been launched to provide free textbooks to students, making education more accessible and empowering the next generation of leaders.
Under the steadfast leadership of Governor Usman Ododo, the education sector in Kogi State has thrived on the three pillars of robust planning, sound legislation, and appropriate funding. Governor Ododo’s strategic planning has ensured that educational policies and programs are effectively implemented, legislation has been put in place to support the sector’s growth, and adequate funding has been allocated to drive progress. This cohesive approach has led to significant advancements in the quality and accessibility of education in the state.
A key indicator of Governor Ododo’s commitment to education is the allocation of 30% of the state’s Annual Budget to the sector. This substantial investment has had widespread impacts on all tertiary institutions in Kogi State, allowing for the improvement of infrastructure, expansion of academic programs, and enhancement of overall educational standards. With this significant financial backing, Governor Ododo has demonstrated his unwavering dedication to ensuring that education remains a top priority in the state, paving the way for a brighter future for the students and educators of Kogi.
The Honourable Commissioner for Education commends Governor Usman Ododo for his visionary leadership and tireless efforts in advancing education in Kogi State. The achievements of the past two years stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the development and prosperity of the state. With Governor Ododo at the helm, the future of education in Kogi State looks brighter than ever.
