News
Senator Natasha Marks One Year in Office with Commissioning of Legacy Projects
Lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, marked her one year in office on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 by distributing empowerment materials and launching some projects across the district. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); js">
The lawmaker was joined by her colleagues from the Senate to commemorate the historic event.
First was the commissioning of the 1km road network at the Abdul Azeez Atta Memorial College Okene by the senate Minority Leader Distinguished Senator Abba Moro.
Senator Tahir Monguno followed by commissioning the reconstruction and remodeling of the Abdul Aziz Atta Memorial College in Okene. There are 9 blocks of classrooms and 4 boarding houses; as well as unveiling the 5,000 digital learning devices marked the event.
The anniversary also included the inauguration of the reconstructed Ihima Police Station, which was officiated by the Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Betrand Onuoha. Additionally, an empowerment programme was launched by Senator Abba Moro.
The Deputy Senate President, represented by Senator Ladan, spoke about Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s first year in office, describing her representation as effective, and praised her efforts to significantly impact her constituents.
“She invited us to see firsthand how she is improving the lives of her constituents in Kogi Central. What makes Senator Natasha unique is her passion for humanitarian service, which seems to be part of her genetic makeup, as her family has a history of giving,” he stated.
On his part, Senate Chief Whip Senator Tahir Monguno emphasised the importance of education in a country’s development, commending Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s initiative to digitalise learning in Kogi Central.
Senator Abba Moro also praised the legacy projects and applauded his colleague for her exceptional performance.
“We have toured various projects aimed at improving the lives of the people, particularly concerning security. All of us here, the senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, are proud to support our colleague, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Her achievements in just one year of service are remarkable.
“I am astonished by the amount of support gathered here for distribution. It’s evident that this is the kind of representation we need, and I am very pleased that she is delivering.”
Speaking at the programme, Senator Natasha reflected on her past year in office, describing it as eventful with many of her campaign promises fulfilled.
“This past year has been a journey of commitment, challenges, and, above all, unwavering dedication to the well-being of our people and the development of our senatorial district. When I took on this responsibility, my vision was clear: to create a senatorial district of our dreams, where every child has the opportunity to learn, every young person has access to meaningful employment, and every family can access basic amenities such as clean water and electricity.
“I am honoured by the trust you have placed in me, and I am here today to reaffirm my commitment to delivering a future that reflects our shared hopes and aspirations. A cornerstone of this vision has been the digitalisation of education. We have deployed 5,000 digital learning devices to public primary and secondary schools across Kogi Central. In the coming weeks, the Universal Basic Education Learning Resource Centre will train teachers and programme these devices with the Nigerian educational curriculum.
“Furthermore, we believe that education is the foundation of a prosperous society. We are beginning the total overhaul of selected existing schools, such as the Abdul Aziz Attah Memorial College (AAAMCO) in Okene. We will also construct a brand-new model primary and secondary school in Osara and facilitate a centre for artificial intelligence and robotics at the Federal College of Education in Okene, as well as an automotive mechatronics workshop and cottage automobile workshop at the Technical College in Oboroke. Both projects are currently undergoing the BPP contracting process, and construction is expected to commence in the first quarter of 2025,” she stated.
She continued, “Moreover, a scholarship scheme through the Natasha Foundation has supported the tuition of 353 vulnerable Indigenous students at tertiary institutions nationwide. Equally, we have worked tirelessly to attract employment opportunities for various graduates and facilitate capacity-building training and empowerment programs for thousands of beneficiaries from our senatorial district.
“Today, we are launching a massive empowerment initiative for over 1,300 artisans, focusing on our women and youth. They have been trained and will be empowered to earn a living in areas such as renewable energy installations, fashion and shoe making, block and tile making, fish farming, advanced welding and carpentry, hairdressing, and catering. You can see for yourself what we have accomplished. They have been supported with startup grants. These efforts will provide a solid foundation for families and, in turn, communities. I am also deeply committed to addressing essential needs, such as access to clean water. Through our numerous water projects, we have brought a reliable supply of potable water to many communities, transforming what was once a challenge into a sustainable reality. Out of the 12 water projects, we developed a massive 50,000-liter solar-powered motorised water system, which serves 300 locations and provides 1,800 fetching taps.
“The electricity projects that have been executed throughout our senatorial district, just within one year of my being in office, have illuminated homes and streets, making our communities safer and more supportive of local businesses. Proudly, 30 kilometres of road networks across Kogi Central are now lit, providing better visibility and enhanced safety for both residents and travelers, especially at night.”
She further added; “The Ihima community had been without a police station for seven years, and I am honored to have my office facilitate the reconstruction and expansion of our community police station, which we commissioned today. If health is wealth, communities should not be impoverished by the lack of effective and responsive Primary Health Care Centers. I am grateful that my office attracted the rehabilitation of two primary healthcare facilities—the Primary Health Care Center in Ohueta and the one in Osara. Construction is set to commence within two weeks.
“A series of medical outreach programmes have been scheduled for next week in Ajaokuta and Okehi local governments. Similarly, I have proposed and sponsored several bills and motions that are not only nationalistic but essential for repositioning Kogi Central and Kogi State as an industrial hub. This, in turn, will create jobs for our youth and generate revenue for our beloved country.
“The legislative assembly, under the guidance of the Senate President, His Excellency Godswill Akpabio, and the executive, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, have formed a strong political alliance. We are ensuring that not only will the Ajaokuta Steel Company function, but that the National Iron Ore Mining Company’s mandate will be expanded to harness the abundant natural resources lying untapped in our region.
“To the leadership of the Senate and my colleagues present, the hills surrounding us are rich in natural minerals, from gold to amethyst and iron ore, among others. I hope that in the coming months, you will join forces with me to ensure these minerals are tapped for the benefit of our country. The Gold Reserve Bill and the establishment bill for the Federal Medical Center in Ihima are legislative efforts aimed at transforming the industrial landscape of our state to meet the welfare and health needs of our people and to widen employment opportunities”.
“I am grateful for the productive leadership I have developed with the President himself, His Excellency President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, the First Lady, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and the Senate President, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio. I am immensely grateful to them all. This collaborative approach has helped us access new opportunities and resources, bringing about greater development and democratic dividends for our people.
“There is still much work to be done, and I am committed to continuously learning and striving for improvement. I will work for you with the same energy, passion, and dedication that you deserve. Thank you for your unwavering support,” she concluded.
Dignitaries at the event include representatives of the Deputy Senate President, Senator Musa Ladan, Senate Chief Whip, Senator Tahir Monguno, Senate Minority leader, Senator Abba Moro, Senator Ede Dafinone, Senator Victor Umeh, Senator Tony Nwoye, Senator Ekong Sampson, Senator Anthony Yaro, as well as Senator Olubiyi Fadeyi.
Others are: Edo Deputy Governor, Omobayo Godwins, House of Representative Member representing Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdulraheem Abdulmaleem Danga, Kogi Commissioner of Police, CP Betrand Onuoha, Ohi of Okene, HRH Alhaji Isa Mamman Okatahi, Ohi of Ihima, HRH Abdulrahim Ogido, Ohiomata of Odumi, Chief James Omeiza amongst other eminent Nigerians.
Author Profile
Latest entries
ReligiousDecember 11, 2025Peace Across Faiths: Minna Town Hall Strengthens Nigeria’s Commitment to Religious Freedom
OpinionDecember 10, 2025LIES VS FACTS: Revisiting The Aregbesola Years In Osun
Business and EconomyDecember 9, 2025KGIRS Sensitizes Stakeholders On Implementation Of New Nigeria Tax Act, 2025
NewsDecember 9, 2025Insecurity: Ododo Briefs President Tinubu On Proactive Measures Put In Place
News
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.
Author Profile
Latest entries
ReligiousDecember 11, 2025Peace Across Faiths: Minna Town Hall Strengthens Nigeria’s Commitment to Religious FreedomOpinionDecember 10, 2025LIES VS FACTS: Revisiting The Aregbesola Years In OsunBusiness and EconomyDecember 9, 2025KGIRS Sensitizes Stakeholders On Implementation Of New Nigeria Tax Act, 2025NewsDecember 9, 2025Insecurity: Ododo Briefs President Tinubu On Proactive Measures Put In Place
News
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.
Author Profile
Latest entries
ReligiousDecember 11, 2025Peace Across Faiths: Minna Town Hall Strengthens Nigeria’s Commitment to Religious FreedomOpinionDecember 10, 2025LIES VS FACTS: Revisiting The Aregbesola Years In OsunBusiness and EconomyDecember 9, 2025KGIRS Sensitizes Stakeholders On Implementation Of New Nigeria Tax Act, 2025NewsDecember 9, 2025Insecurity: Ododo Briefs President Tinubu On Proactive Measures Put In Place
News
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.
Author Profile
Latest entries
ReligiousDecember 11, 2025Peace Across Faiths: Minna Town Hall Strengthens Nigeria’s Commitment to Religious FreedomOpinionDecember 10, 2025LIES VS FACTS: Revisiting The Aregbesola Years In OsunBusiness and EconomyDecember 9, 2025KGIRS Sensitizes Stakeholders On Implementation Of New Nigeria Tax Act, 2025NewsDecember 9, 2025Insecurity: Ododo Briefs President Tinubu On Proactive Measures Put In Place