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Philanthropist Vows To Complement Government’s Efforts In Peace Building In Kogi
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
A philanthropist and the Executive Officer Connected Development Code, Ambassador Hamsat Lawal has reiterated his commitment towards peace building in Kogi state.
Ambassador Lawal said that he will not relent in complementing government’s efforts towards the sustenance of the prevailing peace across the state. com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Ambassador Lawal gave the assurance on Wednesday, at the Ohi of Okene’s Palace, in Okene local government area during his empowerment outreach and sensitisation programme for the people to embrace peace
Lawal who pointed out that no development can take place in the face of crises assured that efforts will be intensified towards ensuring a synergy among the citizenry to embrace dialogue in fostering development in the state.
The philanthropist, however, enjoined parents to always give proper education and parental care to their children so as to curb their excesses and other social vices at childhood and teenage period.
He pointed out that the empowerment programme of his Initiative code is aimed at improving the living standard of the less privileged women in the society and sensitisation of how to be financially responsible without much dependant on their husbands.
In his remarks, the Ohi of Okene, HRH, Isah Okatahi Mamman appreciated the Peace Ambassador, Lawal for initiating the empowerment programme aimed at improving the quality of lives ta the rural areas.
The Monarch who commended Ambassador Lawal for paying back to the society, however, enjoined other wealthy individuals in the state to emulate the good gesture of Ambassador Hamsat Lawal.
In his goodwill message, the
Chairman Kogi State forum of Senior Special Assistant, Hon.Dr Joseph Best A Omeiza
commended Hamzat Lawal, a proud son of Ebiraland who has distinguished himself globally through his work with an internationally recognized NGO—for bringing this vision home.
“This initiative speaks volumes about our shared commitment to youth development, inclusive growth, and sustainable community empowerment. It presents us with a vital opportunity to engage, reflect, and mobilize ourselves toward building a future where every young person is equipped, included, and inspired.” He said.
“Our objectives are not abstract
but are necessary to foster meaningful collaboration among youth leaders and stakeholders,
to identify practical opportunities for economic participation and personal growth, And most importantly, to empower our youth to lead with innovation, resilience, and impact.”
The chairman stressed that Lawal’s bold leadership, combined with his close partnership with “His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, gives us confidence that initiatives like these will leave a lasting imprint.”
The Executive Officer Connected Development Code, Ambassador Hamsat Lawal has also visited Kogi State College of Nursing and Midwifery where he donated five hundred sanitary pads to the Provost for distribution to female students of the institution.
Ambassador Lawal reiterated his commitment to empowerment of women within his immediate society.
While presenting the materials to the provost of the institution, Lawal said the gesture is to give a helping hands to those who cannot afford this pads for the monthly menstrual period.
He pointed out that as a father of three daughters, “I must not shy away from the obvious. There are problems in the society that are not visible. We are trying our best to reduce some of these burdens on our parents by providing these pads for students”.
Ambassador Lawal therefore enjoined parents to always give priority attention to Girl- child education because according to him, if you train a girl, you’ve trained a nation.
After conducting the Philanthropist round the compound, the Provost of the college, Dr. James Duro thanked Ambassador Lawal for the extension of the gesture to the college assuring him of the judicious use of the gifts.
He also appealed his remarks, the chairman of the kogi state Forum of Senior special Assistants, Dr. Joseph Omeiza said
special attention has been given to a vital component of youth and gender empowerment—menstrual hygiene support through Sanitary Pad Empowerment adding that this focus is not only timely but transformative.
By supporting access to sanitary pads, ” we take a bold step towards
Reducing school absenteeism among girls, Improving health and hygiene outcomes , Boosting confidence and self-esteem and reinforcing the right of every girl to learn, thrive, and lead.”
“Menstrual health should never be a barrier to opportunity or dignity. Together, by breaking the silence and removing the stigma, we are helping to create a more inclusive and supportive society for women and girls in our communities.”
In the same vein, Ambassador Hamsat connected initiative code also donated 100 charcoal cooking stoves to women at Ogori mangogo local government and Upogoro women in Okene local government area respectively.
Ambassador Hamsat Lawal pointed out that the gesture is not only to reduce hazard in firewood fetching by women but to be proactive towards desert encroachment.
In her remarks, the commissioner for women Affairs, Hajia Fatima Momoh commended Ambassador Hamsat Lawal for the kind gesture towards alleviating the suffering of the women in the area.
The commissioner who was represented by Hajia Habitat Ajiga appealed to other wealthy individuals to emulate Lawal to pay back to the society.
Highlights of the occasion was the distribution of the charcoal cooking stoves and stipends for the beneficiaries at Ogori – Magogo and Upogoro area of Okene local government area respectively. the Executive Officer of the NGO to assist
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Insecurity: Ododo Briefs President Tinubu On Proactive Measures Put In Place
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi state on Monday, paid a working visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the State House, Abuja, briefing him on proactive measures put in place to tackle insecurity and the overall development of the state. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
Kogi State’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo in a statement made available to journalists in Lokoja, indicates that Governor Ododo during the visit, highlighted the proactive measures being taken by the state government in collaboration with security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
According to the commissioner, Governor Ododo expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his consistent and unwavering support, particularly in bolstering security operations across Kogi State.
He noted that the federal backing has significantly enhanced the capacity of security forces to respond swiftly and effectively to threats.
Governor Ododo also conveyed the profound gratitude of the Government and the good people of Kogi State to the President for the landmark approval of the Ajaokuta Economic City, also known as the Kogi–Hunan Free Trade Zone.
He described the project as a historic and transformative initiative that will reposition Kogi as a major industrial and investment hub, create massive employment opportunities, and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
In his response, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, commended Governor Ododo for his effective leadership and strong collaboration with federal security agencies in tackling security challenges in the state. The President assured him of the Federal Government’s continued support in both security and development efforts.
The high-level meeting also featured fruitful discussions focused on advancing infrastructural development, expanding economic opportunities, and improving the overall well-being of the people of Kogi State.
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Kogi State Intercept Child Trafficking
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
The Kogi State Government has successful intercepted a group of underaged children trafficked into the State, in what is suspected to be a covert recruitment attempt for banditry training. adsbygoogle || []).push({});
The State’s Commissioner of Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo in a statement, disclosed that at about 1500hrs on December 5, 2025, eagle-eyed security operatives of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Yagba Area Command in collaboration with other security agencies in Isanlu, acting on credible intelligence from community hunters, intercepted a truck conveying 21 children aged between 6 and 17 years into Kogi State.
According to the statement “Initial investigations revealed that the children had been moved from different northern states under suspicious circumstances by adults who could not provide legitimate justification for their movement.
“Several suspects linked to the trafficking operation have been arrested, including individuals who claimed they were transporting the children to establish an informal “Islamic school” within Yagba East.
” Further arrests were made as security operatives intensified surveillance within the area, uncovering additional persons allegedly connected to the movement of the minors. Some of the suspects were also found with items raising significant security concerns.
“The rescued children have since been transferred to the State Command of the NSCDC in Lokoja for detailed investigation and proper profiling of all persons involved.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Executive Governor of Kogi State, has directed the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to take full custody of the underaged victims, ensure their wellbeing, and provide the necessary psychosocial support pending the conclusion of investigations.
“Upon completion of profiling and verification, the children will be handed over to their respective State Governments for further investigation and eventual reintegration with their families. Meanwhile, all individuals found culpable in this trafficking operation will be prosecuted in line with Kogi State’s Child Trafficking and Child Rights Protection Laws.
“The Kogi State Government reiterates its uncompromising stance against child trafficking, criminal infiltration, and any form of security threat. The administration of Governor Ododo will continue to work closely with security agencies and local communities to safeguard every part of the State.
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President Tinubu Extols Late Prince Abubakar Audu’s Legacies
From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described late Prince Abubakar Audu as a “friend, ally, and trailblazer of democracy declaring that his foot-print in Kogi state as former Governor remains the best since the creation of the state. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">
The President gave the commendation while speaking at the 10th Memorial Anniversary and Book Presentation organised by the state government in collaboration with the immediate family in honour of the late political ICON
Tinubu who was represented by the Hon. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, lauded late Prince Audu’s commitment to democratic ideals and the development of Kogi State.
President Tinubu noted that Prince Audu’s leadership was marked by courage, vision, and dedication to the prosperity and security of his people, calling his legacy “a living template for good governance” that continues to inspire leaders across the nation.
The event drew political leaders, statesmen, and dignitaries from across Nigeria, including the representation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to commemorate a decade since the passing of the iconic leader whose vision and leadership continue to influence the political and developmental trajectory of Kogi State.
Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, son of the late statesman, reaffirmed his commitment to advancing his father’s legacy.
He described the memorial as a solemn reminder of the enduring influence Prince Audu holds in the hearts of the people and the continued relevance of his contributions to the growth of Kogi State.
The Minister recalled his father’s visionary leadership, foundational reforms, and passion for public service, noting that successive administrations still draw from the structures and institutions he established.
Prince Shuaibu Audu highlighted his ongoing efforts to revitalize the Ajaokuta Steel Company and strengthen Nigeria’s steel sector as a continuation of his father’s dream for industrial and economic development in Kogi State.
He thanked all partners and stakeholders supporting these initiatives, reiterating that the collective aspiration for a stronger Kogi State and a more prosperous Nigeria is rooted in his father’s enduring vision.
The Minister also expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his continuous support to the Audu family.
He also thanked the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, who attended the event. He described Senator Akume as a friend and colleague of his late father from the class of 1999 governors, acknowledging his role in supporting and honouring Prince Audu’s memory.
He further commended the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and members of the State Executive Council for hosting the memorial as a state event, noting that it reflects the enduring respect Kogi State holds for Prince Audu.
He also acknowledged former Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, CON, Capt. Idris Wada, and Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke for their continued dedication to preserving his father’s legacy, describing their presence as a testament to the late leader’s far-reaching impact.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, Chief Host of the event, described Prince Audu as a visionary leader whose transformative governance continues to shape Kogi State.
In a symbolic tribute, he announced the renaming of a major township road as Prince Abubakar Audu Boulevard, directing relevant agencies to install signage, repair roads, install streetlights, and beautify the area. The Governor emphasised that these measures are part of his administration’s ongoing commitment to uphold Prince Audu’s ideals of unity, progress, and service to the people.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume CON said that the late Prince Abubakar Audu was marked as an icon of development and great vision, noting his contribution to the development of Benue State in the time he served in Benue State.
He described him as a man who was genuinely loved by his people as one of the first Nigerians that won in a free, fair and credible elections.
The immediate past governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Adoza Bello urged everyone to reflect on the life and times of the late former governor who was a revolutionary and served with all sincerity, who while in office took bold steps that have continued to impact positively of the people of Kogi State and Nigeria even long after his demise.
The memorial also featured the inauguration of the Board of Trustees of the Prince Abubakar Audu Leadership Foundation, alongside a lecture and book review of “Prince Abubakar Audu: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership”, reviewed by former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, SAN.
Other dignitaries present included former Governors Capt. Idris Wada and Yahaya Adoza Bello, Rt. Hon. James Faleke, and numerous political and community leaders who paid tribute to the late statesman.
The 10th memorial celebration served as both a solemn remembrance and a reaffirmation of the enduring impact of Prince Abubakar Audu’s leadership, inspiring current and future generations to continue the work of unity, progress, and transformative governance in Kogi State.
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