Kogi State Gets Airport; Governor Ododo Signs Contract For Construction In Lokoja
The Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has signed contracts for the construction of an International airport in Lokoja, marking a major step towards infrastructural development in the State.

The governor formally presented the contract award letters to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and Gamji Nigeria Limited during a ceremony at the Government House.

The signing of the contracts is part the government’s efforts to boost economic growth, improve transportation, and attract investors to the state.

Governor Ododo describes the airport project as a Strategic investment aimed at enhancing connectivity and supporting trade and commerce.

The airport projects is located in Zariagi, area of lokoja the Kogi State capital.

Kogi Deploys Surveillance Drones to Boost Security Operations……

The Kogi State Government has unveiled two high-capacity PH20 surveillance drones to strengthen security and improve intelligence gathering across the state. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo presented the advanced equipment on Monday at the 12 Brigade Headquarters, Chari-Maigumeri Barracks in Lokoja. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to adopting modern security technologies to combat criminal activities, noting that the move aligns with global best practices and aims to enhance the safety of lives and property in Kogi State.
#fintternews

Retired Kogi Judges Cry Out Over Years of Neglect, Demand Immediate Payment of Outstanding Entitlements

Retired judges of Kogi State have raised alarms over years of neglect, urging the government to immediately pay their unpaid pensions, gratuities, allowances, and vehicle allocations. Having served decades and retired between 2021 and 2023, the judges described the non-payment as unjust, humiliating, and a violation of constitutional provisions. They warned that continued inaction undermines judicial dignity and independence, urging Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to intervene. Among the retirees are former Chief Judge John Bayo Olowosegun and ex-President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Yunusa Musa.

Kogi Govt Demolishes Criminal Hideouts in Okene to Curb Rising Insecurity

Kogi State security operatives, backed by heavy equipment, have demolished buildings in Sambell community, Idoji, Okene, identified as criminal hideouts. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo approved the decisive operation after intelligence linked the area to kidnappers, armed robbers, and violent gangs terrorizing Okene, Ajaokuta, Lokoja, and nearby areas. Officials say dismantling these camps will make it harder for criminals to regroup, emphasizing zero tolerance for crime. Residents welcomed the move, calling it long overdue, while security operations continue across other hotspots.

#KogiSecurity #OkeneCrime #NigeriaNews

PRESS RELEASE

Gov. Ododo Mourns Yakubu Mohammed, Co-Founder of Newswatch Magazine

Kogi State, 14 January 2026 – Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed, co-founder of Newswatch Magazine, and to the Nigerian Union of Journalists over the passing of the veteran journalist and elder statesman.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, Governor Ododo described Mohammed as a pioneer of modern investigative journalism in Nigeria and a proud son of Dekina Local Government Area, whose contributions to nation-building went beyond the media space.

“As a co-founder of the iconic Newswatch Magazine, Alhaji Yakubu Mohammed belonged to a rare generation of journalists who redefined courage, professionalism, and integrity in Nigerian journalism. He was a man whose influence shaped public discourse and strengthened accountability in our democracy,” the Governor said.

Governor Ododo highlighted Mohammed’s instrumental role in establishing Newswatch in the mid-1980s alongside Dele Giwa, Ray Ekpu, and Dan Agbese, noting that the magazine marked a turning point in Nigerian media history by setting enduring standards for investigative reporting and editorial independence.

The Governor also acknowledged Mohammed’s distinguished public service record, including his tenure as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and his invaluable contributions to the development of Kogi State.

“His love for Kogi State was evident in his commitment to its growth and his willingness to serve in different capacities. He was a bridge-builder, a mentor to many, and a voice of conscience in national affairs,” Governor Ododo added.

He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul eternal rest and comforts his family and all who mourn his loss.

Kogi State Gov Signs 2026 Budget Into Law

While signing the 2026 budget tagged, budget of shared prosperity, driving Sustainable growth, governor Ahmed Usman Ododo appreciates members of the state house of assembly for their due deligence and prompt passage of the appropriation bill saying that, it is for the interest of growth and development of the state.

Governor ododo says his administration remains committed to fiscal discipline, transparent and prudent management of state resources.

The appropriation law, governor Ododo says will be implemented in accordance with the law with every naira deployed to advance the progress of the citizens.

From education, health care, agriculture, road infrastructure, human and youth employment, governor Ahmed ododo mentioned that his administration has recorded modest but impactful achievements.

The Governor further unveils plans for an airport and other infrastructural development in the state.

On security he calls on citizens to adhere to the laid down security protocol saying that it is a shared responsibility with a view of keeping the state safe.

Gov. Ododo Greets Christians at Christmas, Harps on Peace, Unity

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has conveyed heartfelt Christmas goodwill message to Christians across the State, describing the sacred feast of the Nativity as a solemn reminder of selfless love, meekness and devotion to the service of mankind.

In his message through his Special Adviser on Media, Hon. Ismaila Isah, the Governor reflected on the spiritual depth of the season, noting that the birth of Jesus Christ calls believers to walk in patience, forbearance goodwill and virtues that strengthen harmony and communal living.

Governor Ododo observed that the enduring lessons of Christmas remain vital to the growth of Kogi State, urging citizens to uphold the spirit of brotherhood, restraint and collective duty as pillars for lasting peace and progress.

He stated that his administration remains guided by these timeless ideals in the pursuit of good governance, public order, and the steady advancement of the state, anchored on inclusive policies and geared towards the well-being of the populace.

The Governor further assured that the security and welfare of the people remain topmost priorities of the government, pledging continued efforts to safeguard lives and livelihoods.

He prayed that the joy of Christmas abide in every household accross Nigeria, rekindle hope in every individual and usher the people into a New Year marked by peace, diligence and shared prosperity.

Gov. Ododo’s Executive Proclamation Not State of Emergency

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has clarified that his recent Executive Proclamation on security protocols in the state is not a declaration of a state of emergency but a set of necessary measures to enhance the security architecture to crackdown on criminals in all parts of the state.

This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Hon. Ismaila Isah, explaining that the proclamation is a lawful constitutional measure aimed at strengthening security coordination and protecting lives and property across Kogi State.

Gov. Ododo emphasized that it is within his powers as the Chief Security Officer of the state under Section 14 subsection 2(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

He noted that the proclamation seeks to enhance collaboration among security agencies without suspending constitutional rights or declaring a state of emergency.

The Governor explained that the measures include verification of security operatives, mandatory identification checks, and prosecution of anyone aiding or abetting criminal elements such as bandits and terrorists.

He also clarified that the proclamation aims to curb the rise of fake security personnel and improve the overall security architecture of Kogi State.

He warned that individuals or organizations found supporting criminal activities will be treated as enemies of the state and prosecuted under applicable laws.

The Governor further stressed that all properties used in the commission of such crimes shall be forfeited to the Kogi State Government.

This, in addition to relevant constitutional provisions is backed by the Kogi State Anti-Kidnapping, Robbery and Terrorism Law of 2016, which empowers the state government to seize properties and assets used in the perpetration of violent crimes in any part of the state.

The Governor expressed gratitude to security agencies for their efforts and reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to peace and security.

Recalled that Governor Ododo on Tuesday rolled out a number of security protocols following the recovery of a large cache of weapons in the state by security agencies acting on intelligence.

Kogi State makes security breakthrough

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has announced the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition from criminal hideouts during recent joint security operations in the state.

The governor who made this known while briefing journalists in Lokoja explains that the operation followed a week long sustained intelligence gathering by security agencies, working in synergy with the state government.

Gov. Ododo Unveils Kogi-Hunan FTZ with $500m FDI, 50,000 Jobs Projection

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has led Chinese and international partners to unveil the Ajaokuta Economic City, a new Free Trade Zone (FTZ) projected to attract $500 million in annual foreign direct investment and create 50,000 jobs.

Speaking at the stakeholders’ engagement held at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, Governor Ododo said the project marks a new chapter in Kogi’s industrial growth.

He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for granting timely approval and supporting the initiative.

The Governor assured investors of a strong security framework for the FTZ and emphasized the role of higher institutions in the state in providing the required skilled manpower.

“Today, we plant the seed of generational prosperity. Kogi State is the beating heart of Nigeria. We don’t talk. We do,” he said.

FG Approves Kogi-Hunan Free Trade Zone

… As Stakeholders Set for Abuja Briefing

The Federal Government has approved the establishment of the Kogi–Hunan Free Trade Zone, paving the way for the takeoff of the Ajaokuta Economic City as the Kogi State Government begins preparations for a major stakeholders’ briefing in Abuja.

The initiative follows the strategic partnership between the Kogi state government led by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and the Zhuzhou Municipal Government of Hunan Province, China, under the Kogi–Hunan Sister Province Relationship.

According to the invitation to the official media briefing by Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor and Chief Executive Officer of the Kogi State Investment Promotion and Public Private Partnership Agency (KSIPPA), Aliyu Inda Salami, government agencies, investors and development partners will be briefed on the project framework, investment opportunities and next steps at the event in Abuja this Tuesday.
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Without Yahaya Bello APC Will Lose Kogi In 2027 – Commissioner Warns.

Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Bashir Gegu, has warned that the All Progressives Congress (APC) might lose Kogi State in the 2027 general elections if President Bola Tinubu sidelines former Governor Yahaya Bello.

Gegu gave the warning at a political gathering at a Kogi Local Council.

He argued that Bello remains the architect of the state’s current political structure and a decisive factor in the ruling party’s continued dominance.

The speech, which he shared on his Facebook page, quoted the commissioner as saying, “If former Governor Yahaya Bello is not carried along, APC cannot win Kogi State. That is the plain truth.”

He dismissed social media’s criticism of a recent rally in Lokoja, insisting it was not about power play, but an expression of gratitude to Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for their leadership.

Gegu added, “The rally was a show of appreciation, not a protest. But let no one make the mistake, without Yahaya Bello, there’s no APC victory in Kogi.”

The commissioner credited Bello for laying the groundwork for political stability and federal visibility in the state, saying his influence still cuts across all districts.

Yahaya Bello under fire over use of Kogi State letterhead in letter to army chief.

Former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has come under intense criticism after posting and later deleting a congratulatory letter to the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, written on the official Kogi State Government letterhead despite no longer being in office.

The letter, which bore the state coat of arms and Bello’s signature as “Executive Governor,” triggered widespread outrage after being shared on social media. Critics accused the former governor of clinging to power and blurring the boundary between personal identity and state authority.

In the letter, Bello congratulated the new Army Chief but included a contentious line that quickly drew attention, “It gives me renewed hope that my worthy successor, His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, will now have you in his corner as he continues to tackle insecurity in his domain.”
Observers said the remark was problematic, as it suggested that the Chief of Army Staff could “belong” in a governor’s “corner,” a distortion of the military’s federal command structure.

The civic accountability platform @Kogi_Xcommunity first drew attention to the issue. In a viral post, the group wrote: “Yahaya Adoza Bello, former Governor of Kogi State, has deleted his personally signed letter to the new Chief of Army Staff after facing backlash from netizens.

Council of State Approves Prof. Amupitan (SAN) as New INEC Chairman.

The National Council of State on Thursday approved the nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

President Bola Tinubu presented Amupitan’s name to the council during its meeting at the State House, Abuja, following the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served from 2015 to October 2025.

In a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Amupitan as an apolitical nominee and the first person from Kogi State in Nigeria’s North-Central region to be nominated for the position.

Council members unanimously endorsed the nomination, with Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo describing the nominee as a man of “proven integrity.”

Following the council’s approval, the President will transmit Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Amupitan, 58, hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. A Professor of Law at the University of Jos and an alumnus of the same institution, he specialises in Company Law, Law of Evidence, Corporate Governance, and Privatisation Law.

He was conferred with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in September 2014 and has authored several works on corporate and commercial law.

If confirmed, Amupitan will succeed Yakubu as Nigeria’s chief electoral umpire, overseeing the nation’s electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ododo orders construction of 10km township roads across 21 LGAs.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has directed the construction of 10 kilometres of township roads in each of the state’s 21 local government areas.

The governor said the initiative fulfills his campaign promises and underscores his commitment to improving infrastructure and the well-being of the people.

Represented during a project tour by the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Muhammed Avohi Yusuf, Governor Ododo instructed the Kogi State Roads Maintenance Agency (KOGROMA) to deliver the road projects across the state.

Yusuf confirmed that the 10km township road project in Yagba West LGA has been completed, while similar projects are ongoing in Mopamuro and Yagba East LGAs.

“In Mopa town, we are constructing 10 kilometres of township roads. Already, four kilometres of asphalt have been laid, and earthwork for the entire stretch is completed. Once the rains are over, the remaining six kilometres will be fully asphalted,” Yusuf said.

Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, added that the administration is deliberately decentralizing development to ensure rural areas benefit from good governance.

“Before now, projects were concentrated in urban centres. Today, rural communities are feeling the impact of government interventions. The Chief Servant is committed to ensuring development reaches the grassroots,” Fanwo stated.

He urged citizens to take ownership of the projects and protect them from vandalism to ensure long-term sustainability.

Oworo people raise alarm over approval of traditional stools, land encroachment.

The Oworo community on Thursday August 27, 2025, at a press briefing organised by the Oworo Foundation, cried out over the continuous poaching of its land by the Igala people in Kogi state.

The people also expressed worries over the recent approval of traditional stools which included the Ohi of Ajaokuta, Ohireba Aniebira of Lokoja, and Ohiekura of Osara by the governor of Kogi state, Ahmed Usman Ododo, as uncalled for, saying it has sparked widespread concern among Oworo people.

The recent call for redress was fueled by what the people described as age-long historical injustices that are now threatening the very fabric of Oworoland.

After the briefing, the people in a statement signed on behalf of the Oworo Foundation by Mr Yomi Berida in Abuja, the people argued that historical records confirm that Ajaokuta was a district in Oworo Division, while Osara and Lokoja were integral communities within Oworoland.

The Olu of Oworo stool they stated further was established in 1825, saying it predated the Ohinoyi stool, created in 1860.

According to them, the historical context underscored Oworo’s deep-rooted connection to these lands.

The approval of traditional stools by the Executive Governor of Kogi State, including the Ohi of Ajaokuta, Ohireba Aniebira of Lokoja, and Ohiekura of Osara is uncalled for as it has sparked widespread concern among our people.

“Historical records confirm that Ajaokuta was a district in Oworo Division, while Osara and Lokoja were integral communities within Oworoland. The Olu of Oworo stool, established in 1825, predates the Ohinoyi stool, created in 1860. This historical context underscores Oworo’s deep-rooted connection to these lands.

How Robbers Killed Man 4 Months after Wedding in Kogi.

Barely four months after his wedding ceremony, suspected armed robbers last Thursday shot and killed a young man, Mr. Durojaiye Folusho, from Aiyetoro Kiri in the Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Local residents narrated the unfortunate occurred at the victim’s farm on the outskirts of the community, where the transporter had gone to tend to his crops.

Folusho, who was known as a hardworking transporter on the Kiri–Kabba route, married in April.

“The young man just married a woman from a neighboring local government area in April. He is a popular transporter in our community, known for avoiding unnecessary risks, such as traveling alone at night,” said Emmanuel, a close friend and resident.

“He had gone to his farm when an unknown number of armed men attacked and killed him in the afternoon on Thursday. His body was later recovered on the farm and taken to Kabba,” his friend added.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP William Aya, did not respond to a text message regarding the incident as of the time of filing this report.

However, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, has condemned the killing, describing it as tragic and senseless.

In a statement signed by Kinsley Fanwo, the state Commissioner of Information and Communication, the governor noted that “the loss of a valued member of the community under such violent circumstances is distressing, and we share in their grief.”

Governor Ododo has directed all relevant security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the “heinous act” and has mandated a “thorough and expedited investigation to ensure justice is served.”

Kogi Govt Laments Gruesome Murder Of Durowaye, Vows To Ensure Justice.

The Kogi State government has lamented the gruesome murder of Mr. Folusho Durowaye and has vowed to ensure that justice is delivered.

In a press statement signed by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications yesterday,
the government expressed sadness over what it described as the tragic and senseless killing of Mr. Durowaye which occurred on Friday at Ayetoro Kiri in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of the state.

The statement reads, ‘We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the people of Ayetoro Kiri, and the entire Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area in this difficult time. The loss of a valued member of the community under such violent circumstances is distressing, and we share in their grief.

“Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has directed all relevant security agencies to immediately intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act. He has also mandated a thorough and expedited investigation to ensure justice is served.

“The State Security Adviser has been instructed to beef up security around Ayetoro Kiri and neighboring areas to protect residents and prevent any recurrence of such incidents.

“The Kogi State Government condemns this act of violence in the strongest terms and assures the people that the safety and security of all citizens remain paramount in the administration’s priorities.

“We urge members of the public to remain calm and cooperate fully with security operatives by providing any information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators. It is also expedient to provide credible intelligence that is required to prevent isolated occurrences such as the one that happened this morning.

“The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining peace, security, and the rule of law across the State.”