By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots economic development with the empowerment of over one thousand youths and petty traders across Kogi East Senatorial District.
The programme, held in Ejule, Ofu Local Government Area, featured the distribution of motorcycles and ₦50,000 cash support to petty traders to strengthen small businesses, improve rural transportation and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Speaking during the empowerment programme, Governor Ododo appreciated the people of Ofu for their continued support.
He assured them that his administration had not neglected the area despite his inability to visit earlier.
He highlighted ongoing interventions in healthcare and education, describing Ofu as a strategic community in Kogi’s history and development.
The Governor, who emphasised the importance of peace and security as foundations for development, commended the people for their cooperation with security agencies.
He urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the empowerment items, noting that small opportunities, when properly managed, could grow into successful businesses and transform families.
Ododo also applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the economic reforms that had strengthened the capacity of state governments to extend support to ordinary Nigerians.
He urged the people to support the President beyond 2027, while appealing for unity among the different ethnic groups in Kogi State, stressing that political differences should never destroy their bonds of brotherhood.
Welcoming the Governor, Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu Oyibo, described the visit as historic and commended Ododo for his commitment to security, infrastructure and economic empowerment.
He highlighted ongoing projects in Ejule, including a major healthcare facility, the revitalisation of the Anyigba Road borehole, and the construction and renovation of Ofuloko Primary School, alongside other community interventions.
He also praised the Governor’s security efforts, particularly the recovery of ammunition and arrest of suspected criminals in Edimogo, Ofu LGA.
The Deputy Governor further described Ododo as a noiseless achiever whose performance had continued to speak louder than criticism, while appreciating former Governor Yahaya Bello for providing the state with a leader committed to sustaining development.
He called on the people of Kogi East to maintain their support for the administration, assuring them of continued attention to their welfare and development needs.
Also speaking at the event, Kogi East APC Senatorial Candidate, Chief Joseph Erico Ameh, showered encomiums on Governor Ododo for his people-oriented leadership and consistent commitment to empowering the grassroots.
He particularly thanked the Governor for extending economic opportunities to women and youths and, in a demonstration of his support for the initiative, donated ₦50,000 each to 200 women to further boost their petty trading businesses.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
