By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The kogi state Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo on Tuesday in Lokoja
joined millions of Nigerians at home and abroad in celebrating this milestone on this special occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary.
“I felicitate with the good people of Kogi State and all Nigerians as we mark 64 years of our nation’s emancipation from British colonial rule.”
“Today, we honor the national heroes from every corner of this great country who fought courageously for our freedom. Their sacrifices remind us that our liberty was hard-earned, and we must cherish and safeguard it. We also commend all leaders – both civilian and military – who have governed Nigeria, and those who have led us in our dear State too, since independence. “
In his broadcast to the people of the state to mark this year’s independence anniversary, governor Ododo, “Our journey as a nation has not been without challenges. We are a country of great diversity – territories, tribes, and religions. Yet, despite this complex montage, we have maintained steady movement towards greatness.”
He pointed out that In the last 64 years, Nigeria has made significant strides at home and within the comity of nations. A nation destined for greatness.
“At this critical juncture in our history, we are glad to have the leadership of our current president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who’s administration has shown unprecedented courage in addressing long-standing structural anomalies which previous governments, fearful of the inevitable fallout, carefully avoided.”
“The Federal Government of Nigeria under him has increased monetary allocations to states like ours – by a lot, enabling us to do more for our people. He has introduced a suite of palliatives that is arguably the largest our nation has ever mobilised – to ease the burden on citizens.”
Governor Ododo pointed out that how to guide the people’s safely through the ongoing 2024 flood season in the state is his priority
and has taken proactive steps to ensure no one is caught unprepared.
He, however, warned those living below the flood-plains of the Rivers Niger and Benue to evacuate now and shoud not rely on only observable rainfall patterns in your area to predict the water levels as Dams upstream are releasing water – which may cause levels to rise catastrophically here without warning.
“Just last weekend, we took delivery of four motorized fiberglass boats donated by the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC).” He said.
Ododo who assured the people of the state that the election will be free and fair therefore urged them to come out in full force on the 19th of this Month of October to cast their votes for the Chairmen and Councillors of our choice.
“I do not need to tell us again that this election is crucial for the continued progress of our state, especially at the grassroots where the majority of us live and do business.”
