Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has pledged unwavering support for the education and welfare of orphaned children in the state.
During the launch of the Governor Ododo Orphan Students Care (GOOS-Care) initiative, held in Lokoja and organized by the Kogi State Forum of Local Government Special Assistants, Governor Ododo stressed the need to ensure that no child feels abandoned due to the loss of parents or financial hardships.
“You are not orphans as far as we have God Almighty,” the governor said in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, on Saturday. He urged the beneficiaries to maintain self-belief and resist the emotional challenges that often come with their circumstances.
Governor Ododo commended the Forum of Local Government Special Assistants for spearheading the initiative, calling it a reflection of his administration’s grassroots-focused policies.
“This effort shows that we made the right decisions because this government is truly for the people,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of collective governance, the governor called on leaders to prioritize serving the people and assured the forum of his administration’s commitment to addressing pending appointments among grassroots supporters.
“What we are doing today may not be fully recognized now, but its significance will become clear in the future,” he added, urging forum members and beneficiaries to remain dedicated.
Yakubu Siyaka Adabenege, Kogi State Auditor General for Local Government, praised the initiative for bridging the gap between the government and grassroots communities. He encouraged beneficiaries to use the resources provided wisely and emphasized the need to sustain the program to enhance education and local engagement.
The forum’s chairman, Jafar Kamarudeen, expressed deep gratitude to Governor Ododo for his visionary leadership and dedication to improving lives. He assured that the program would continue to support orphans across the state.
