Kogi East leaders applaud Tinubu, Ododo over infrastructure projects

Lokoja, Political and community leaders in Kogi East Senatorial District have publicly thanked President Bola Tinubu and Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo for recent infrastructure developments they claim have significantly boosted socio-economic conditions in the region. The praise followed an inspection tour led by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and the Presidential Communications Team, which assessed several projects executed by both federal and state authorities. The visit included a detailed review of a 12-kilometre internal road project in Ankpa Local Government Area, which is complemented by a 24-kilometre double-sided drainage system. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ododo administration, aims to address long-standing issues related to erosion and inadequate transportation networks. The project has received attention due to its integration with broader environmental management strategies. Kogi State Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, who also serves as the state chairman of the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, highlighted the importance of the road network as part of a larger effort to stabilize the environment and enhance agricultural productivity. He noted that the project was carried out under the World Bank-supported ACReSAL programme, which focuses on land reclamation, environmental stabilization, and erosion control. Oluwasegun emphasized that the success of such initiatives relies heavily on the timely fulfillment of financial commitments by the state government. He specifically acknowledged Governor Ododo for consistently providing the necessary counterpart funds required to secure World Bank assistance. According to him, these funds are crucial for compensating for costs associated with the implementation of the projects. The commissioner further stated that the program's micro-loan component has directly benefited rural farmers and cooperative groups, contributing to reduced poverty levels and enhanced economic activity. Over $2 million has already been distributed to these groups, demonstrating tangible improvements in the local economy. Alhaji Ademu Muhammed Yahaya, Chairman of Ankpa Local Government Area, described the project as the most substantial government undertaking in his jurisdiction. He noted that Ankpa, historically part of different states before becoming part of Kogi, has rarely seen such extensive development efforts. He expressed deep gratitude towards both the governor and president, vowing to support them during upcoming political processes. Elder Yahaya Samuel, a community leader and secretary of Olubojo Community, echoed these sentiments, stating that the project has alleviated suffering among residents who had endured years of hardship due to erosion and poor roads. He pledged continued support for President Tinubu and APC candidates ahead of the 2027 elections. During the inspection, the team also visited Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU) in Anyigba, where they examined two key facilities: the new College of Health Sciences building and the recently completed Senate Building. Both structures were developed under the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) 2024 intervention programme, with total investments reaching N643 million and N3.1 billion respectively. These developments reflect broader efforts to modernize educational infrastructure and enhance institutional capacity.