In his inaugural speech as the 5th Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo pledged to uphold the trust placed in him by the people of the state and prioritize workers’ welfare. He expressed gratitude for the enormous responsibility of leadership and governance and called for support to achieve a greater Kogi State.
Governor Ododo reassured potential investors that the state is safe under the public-private partnership initiative and promised to sustain the existing security of lives and property. He emphasized that teachers’ welfare and women’s welfare will be given priority, and he pledged to pursue vigorous partnerships with the federal government in solid minerals development, agriculture, and blue economy.
Shortly after his inauguration, Governor Ododo announced the reappointment of Mrs. Folashade Ayoade as the Secretary to the State Government. He also made other key appointments including Alhaji Ali Bello as Chief of Staff, Hillary Ojoma Egwuda as Deputy Chief of Staff, Elijah Evinemi as Head of Service, Commander Jerry Omodara as Kogi State Security Adviser, and Isah Ibrahim as Special Adviser on Security.
Additionally, Suleiman Ibrahim was appointed as the Director General of Protocol, Oladele John Nihi as Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Alhaji Shaibu Oricha as Director General of Government House Administration, and Barrister Femi Adegboyega as the State Legal Adviser. These appointments take immediate effect.
Furthermore, the Governor announced the nominees for Commissioner positions, which include prominent figures such as Sunday Faleke, Salami Momoh Ozigi, Faruk Danlami, and Bashir Abubakar among others.
The Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, reiterated the commitment of the federal government to harnessing the vast resources in Kogi State for the benefit of its people. He called on the pillars of the All Progressives Congress in the state to support Governor Ododo’s administration and ensure the people reap the benefits of democracy.
The occasion also included the conferral of the highest state honor on the immediate past Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello, and a minute of silence was held in remembrance of the late Governor of the State, Prince Abubakar Audu.
