Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi on Saturday tasked citizens and communities on infrastructure development initiatives that could change the living standard of their people.
The governor gave the charge on the occasion of 32nd Ekinrin-Adde Festival 2025 and launching of the N600m infrastructural development fund, held at Ekinrin-Adde, Ijemu Local Government Area of kogi.
Ododo, represented by his deputy, Joel Oyibo, commended the Ekinrin-Adde community for taking proactive steps towards improving infrastructure and fostering sustainable development with the N600m fundraising
“This fundraising is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the members of this community to make a positive impact on the lives of its people.
“Infrastructure is the backbone of any developing community and investing in it is important to ensure a better quality of life for everyone.
“The N600m infrastructural development fund will enable the Ekinrin-Adde community to carryout important projects like road gradings and palliative repairs, water supply improvements, enhancement of educational and health facilities, among others,” he said.
Ododo said that the laudable initiative was coming at a time when the government is winning the war against insecurity in the state, particularly in Kogi West.
“As a government, we pledge our full support to this noble initiative and we will work closely with the Ekinrin-Adde Community Development Association to ensure the success of this fund,” he said.
The governor also reiterated the state government’s commitment to reed the state of criminality.
“We’re focused, determined and committed to making sure that the state is free of all crimes and the people can sleep with their eyes closed and as well carryout their businesses freely.
“We equally want to warn criminal elements to desist or be ready to face the wrath of the law. This government is out for a full-blown war against crime, Kogi is not, and will never be a safe haven for criminals,” he added.
Earlier, Chairman of the occasion, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, Senior Special Adviser (SSA) to President Bola Tinubu on Foreign Affairs, described the Ekinrin-Adde 2025 Cultural Day as a bold developmental step worthy of emulation by all communities.
Enikanolaiye, represented by his wife, Adunni, urged all and sundry to support the initiative of the Ekinrin-Adde community development Association by donating to the fundraising.
“This year’s Ekinrin-Adde Day edition has passed as one of the most impressive, not just in terms of attendance, but the high quality of activities and participation, ” he said.
He appreciated the community for conferring chieftancy titles on him and his wife, as the ‘Araba’ of Ekinrin Adde and ‘Yeye Aare Atona’ of Ekinrin Adde Kingdom, respectively.
Also speaking, Chief Launcher and Chief Whip of House of Representatives, Rep. Usman Kuma, commended Sen. James Faleke, a bonafide son of the community for the infrastructure development initiative.
Kumo pledged to support the community with a N100 million project and another donation N20.5 million on behalf of himself and his friends.
Mr Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, the Chairman, Planning Committee, described the people of Ekinrin-Adde Community as People of God who have been enjoying His benevolence.
“We are the people of God, which explains why we are progressing as a community in Kogi,” he said.
He appreciated all who came to associate with the community on the memorable occasion of their day.
