The government and people of Kogi State are looking back with smiles, confidence and hope as they mark 34 years of creation.
The chief celebrant of the anniversary, Gov Usman Ahmed Ododo, in his anniversary speech, said, “Today is a moment of sober reflection for me and for all the people of Kogi State. Just as on our birthdays as individuals, when we celebrate, we also look back to examine whether we are truly living up to our age.
“Today, our dear Kogi State marks 34 years of existence as a proud federating unit of our beloved nation. This anniversary gives us the opportunity to reflect on where we have come from, to assess where we are, and to chart the course of where we aspire to be.”
The governor recalled, “From the humble beginnings of 1991, when our founding fathers laboured to give us a state we could proudly call our own, Kogi has journeyed through challenges and triumphs, forging an identity built on resilience, diversity, and boundless potential.
“At 34, we stand at a defining threshold. Our state is undergoing massive transformation: roads are being built, schools are being remodelled, hospitals are receiving renewed attention, and our rural communities are beginning to feel the impact of purposeful governance. We may not yet be where we desire to be, but we are certainly no longer where we used to be.
“The road ahead is one of greater hope. We envision a Kogi State where every child has access to quality education, where healthcare is within reach of all, where industries thrive, and where agriculture secures prosperity for our people. We are committed to building an inclusive economy that leaves no community behind. From Akutupa to Oshokoshoko, from Adavi to Ibaji, from Ajiolo to Gegu, I hear your voices and aspirations for a better and more prosperous Kogi State.
“Yet, the government alone cannot build the Kogi of our dreams. This anniversary calls on every citizen to take pride in the greatness of our state, to uphold peace, to embrace hard work, and to continue to believe in our collective destiny”
Governor Ododo pledged that his administration will work diligently every day to serve the people and promote the state’s greatness. “Your votes gave me the mandate, but I want my service and results to define me.
“As we celebrate 34 years of existence, let us renew our pledge to keep Kogi great. Together, we will strengthen our unity, deepen our progress, and hand over to future generations a state greater than the one we inherited,” he said.
