Here is an overview of the history of Kogi State Governors and their economic impact on the state:
1. Prince Abubakar Audu (1991–1993; 1999–2003)
Role: First Executive Governor of Kogi State
Economic Impact:
Prince Abubakar Audu was instrumental in laying the foundation of Kogi State's development when it was created in 1991. During his first term, he focused on infrastructure development, including the construction of roads, schools, hospitals, and the Kogi State University (now Prince Abubakar Audu University). He also promoted tourism by developing the Mount Patti Tourist Village. His second tenure was characterized by efforts to boost agricultural productivity and improve education, but allegations of corruption and mismanagement also plagued his administration.
2. Colonel Paul Omeruo (1993–1996)
Role: Military Administrator
Economic Impact:
During the military era, Colonel Omeruo was appointed as the Military Administrator of Kogi State. His administration was mostly focused on maintaining stability rather than economic transformation. However, some basic infrastructure improvements were made under his leadership.
3. Colonel Bzigu Lassa Afakirya (1996–1998)
Role: Military Administrator
Economic Impact:
As a military administrator, Afakirya focused on stabilizing governance in Kogi State, with limited economic reforms. His administration saw efforts in road construction, but the state's economic structure remained underdeveloped during this period.
4. Colonel Augustine Aniebo (1998–1999)
Role: Military Administrator
Economic Impact:
Colonel Aniebo’s brief period as a military administrator was transitional, preparing the state for a return to civilian rule. There was limited economic impact during his tenure as he focused more on security and preparing for the democratic handover.
5. Ibrahim Idris (2003–2012)
Role: Civilian Governor
Economic Impact:
Ibrahim Idris served for two terms and made significant strides in improving Kogi’s infrastructure and public services. His administration focused on road construction, rural electrification, and building new schools. He also invested in health care, with the construction of hospitals across the state. Idris’s government supported agriculture, especially in areas of cassava and yam production, but overall economic diversification remained a challenge. His tenure also saw the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) set up, which helped improve the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).
6. Captain Idris Wada (2012–2016)
Role: Civilian Governor
Economic Impact:
Wada’s administration focused on infrastructural development and agriculture. His administration launched the Kogi State Agricultural Transformation Program aimed at boosting food production and reducing unemployment through youth engagement in farming. He also introduced the "Transformation Agenda," which aimed to improve the state's road networks, healthcare services, and education system. Despite these efforts, Wada's administration faced criticism for slow project execution, especially in completing key infrastructure works. The state also grappled with unpaid salaries and economic challenges stemming from low federal allocations.
7. Yahaya Bello
Role: Civilian Governor
Economic Impact:
Yahaya Bello became governor after the sudden death of Abubakar Audu during the 2015 elections. His administration has focused on reducing Kogi State's reliance on federal allocations by boosting internally generated revenue (IGR). This has included reforms in tax collection, improved transparency, and measures to reduce payroll fraud through civil service reforms.
Bello has also promoted infrastructure development, especially road construction and rehabilitation of rural roads to improve connectivity. His administration launched the “New Direction Blueprint,” which prioritizes education, health, agriculture, and security. The Kogi State Government has partnered with private investors to drive industrialization, including plans to revive the Ajaokuta Steel Company. However, Bello's tenure has been marred by controversies surrounding unpaid workers’ salaries and pensions, accusations of poor governance, and insecurity, which has affected economic activities in some parts of the state.
Conclusion:
The history of Kogi State governors reflects varying levels of economic progress. While some administrations have made strides in infrastructure, agriculture, and internal revenue generation, issues like corruption, unpaid salaries, and poor governance have hindered sustainable economic development. The future of the state’s economy will largely depend on effective leadership, industrialization efforts like the revival of Ajaokuta Steel, and improvements in governance and security.
