LugardTV, the official digital public service broadcaster of Kogi State, is set to celebrate its first anniversary with a series of events spanning an entire month, according to a statement from Hon. Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser on Media to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
Speaking from Lokoja, Hon. Isah outlined the schedule of activities, which will kick off on Friday, July 18, 2025, with a community outreach initiative and culminate in a grand finale on Thursday, August 21, 2025.
The final event will spotlight discussions on the evolving landscape of media entrepreneurship in Nigeria, along with other critical topics.
According to the media adviser, the celebration serves as a time to reflect on LugardTV’s impact over the past year and to reinforce its core mission of fostering transparent governance through effective public communication.
“LugardTV was established in July 2024 with the vision to tell the Kogi story from authentic sources that reflect the position of the government, the people, and the development strides recorded under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. As a medium, LugardTV is more than a platform, it is a bridge between the government and the people of Kogi State,” he said.
Since its launch, LugardTV has produced nearly 1,000 original programs, with a focus on key developmental sectors such as health, education, agriculture, infrastructure, security, and empowerment of youth and women.
Hon. Isah highlighted the platform’s innovation in moving beyond conventional media practices by delivering real-time digital content, in-depth human interest stories, and solutions-focused journalism that has drawn widespread viewership both within and outside Kogi State.
“Our team is young, passionate, and committed. LugardTV has become a training ground for young professionals from all parts of the state, members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and interns who now see public service broadcasting as a purposeful career path,” he added.
Part of the anniversary events includes an “Open House” experience from August 11 to 15, 2025, during which the public will be invited to explore behind-the-scenes operations at LugardTV. This will be followed by a team-building day on August 16, featuring staff bonding activities and role reversals to recognize those behind the outlet’s growth.
The grand finale on August 21 is expected to include a high-level panel session, the premiere of a documentary chronicling LugardTV’s inaugural year, the launch of new programs, and a series of awards honoring significant contributions to Kogi’s development.
Hon. Isah called on stakeholders—including development partners, media professionals, and individuals across civil society and the entertainment industry—to be part of the celebrations and support LugardTV’s continued efforts toward inclusive, transparent governance.
He expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo and key members of the administration for enabling the digital broadcaster to thrive and effectively highlight the policies and programs of the state government.
