Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, is actively working to attract investors to develop the state’s vast solid mineral resources, according to his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah.
Hon. Isah made this known while speaking on a Radio Interview Programme on Classic FM 94.3 Abuja as part of Media Engagements ahead of the first one year in office of the Governor.
He emphasized that Governor Ododo, serving as the “Chief Marketing Officer” of the state, has been engaging federal agencies, international stakeholders, and private sector investors to unlock Kogi’s economic potential.
According to him, the Governor has been reaching out to illustrious sons and daughters of the state on the need to invest in Kogi state, pointing out that the discussions are already yielding positive results.
Among the key initiatives, he disclosed plans for an Industrial Park with Free Trade Zone status and the approval of a Kogi State International Airport by the Federal Government. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with NEXIM Bank to establish processing facilities for agricultural products aimed at boosting local industries and exports.
Hon. Isah also noted improvements in food prices, attributing this to crop processing facilities and government policies that encourage farming, including direct purchases from farmers.
Addressing security, the Governor’s aide said significant investments in the sector have led to positive outcomes.
He said hundreds of vehicles and motorcycles, along with advanced gadgets, have been provided to hunters, vigilantes, and conventional security agencies. The government is also collaborating with neighboring states to tackle criminal activities at their roots,” he explained.
On education, Hon. Isah reaffirmed the Governor’s commitment, citing the release of over N600 million for WAEC fees, the restructuring of bursary programs for indigent students, and free education in public primary and secondary schools.
He also lauded the administration’s efforts to complete key projects inherited from former Governor Yahaya Bello. These include the 9-kilometer GYB Junction-Zango-Zone 8 roundabout road and the 5.5-kilometer Crusher-Zone 8 roundabout road, which are now ready for commissioning, adding that the Governor is determined to avoid the scourge of project abandonment in the state.
