Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has urged contractors handling various projects for the state government to engage artisans in the communities where they are working to create jobs for the people.
Ododo gave the directive on Tuesday while inspecting Okuhapa bridge and Obangede-Okaito – Ihima road in Okehi Local Government of the State.
He said engaging local artisans will help alleviate poverty and reduce insecurity across the country.
The Governor, however, commended TEC Engineering for a job well done, assuring that they will payment commensurate with the job they have done soonest.
“The government of Alhaji Yahaya Bello has done a 32 years development plan for Kogi State to further strengthen the renewed hope agenda of Mr President of no room for project abandonment.
“In line with our campaign promises of consolidation and continuity of the achievement of His Excellency, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, the former Governor of Kogi State, we are here to inspect this Obangede – Okaito – Usungwe road construction and with what I have seen here today, I am impressed with the level of work done and the quality so far.
” Let me tell Nigerians that something unique has happened here today.
“TEC engineering engaged local artisans and contractors up to 80 per cent. I can see welders here, iron benders, labourers, bricks layers and all are here doing this project .
“This has further help in solving the problem of insecurities we are having as far as this Country is concerned.
“I want to used this medium to appreciate TEC engineering for this singular act.
“I urge every other contractors to emulate this company by engaging our brothers and sisters that are ready to take the job with them.
“With this, we have solved the issue of insecurity in our Country by 80 per cent, ” he stated.
He maintained that, Government needs the support of other stakeholders to move the state forward, adding that there is need for collaboration and understanding to address the issue of insecurity in the country.
Governor Ododo equally appreciated the host communities for their support and understanding since the project was awarded to the company.
” I could remember that when this project was awarded, somebody made a statement that the government is going and this road is being awarded.
“That day, the former Governor, our leader who was winding down his administration told the world that nothing can stop this project.
“You can see for yourselves that we are here to carry out inspection of this project to ensure value for our money.
“In accounting, this is what we call on the spot check. There was no arrangement or communication to the company that we are coming to inspect this project.
“We are here and they are on sight working day and night.
“By the special Grace of God almighty, there payment has been approved and as from tomorrow each contractor will receive their funds,” Ododo said.
Governor Ododo promised to complete all the projects started by previous administration in the State.
He said : “We were given mandate to serve humanity not to be served. We were given a mandate of trust to our people and not to take from them.
“We are committed to serve you continuously. We need your cooperation and understanding to serve you better in Kogi State” he added.
The Governor and his team also inspected the GYB model Science Secondary School Ogaminana in Adavi Local Government Area of the State.(vitalnewsngr.com)
