The Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to infrastructure development, rural empowerment, and environmental sustainability during an inspection tour of the ongoing massive erosion control and road development projects in Ankpa Local Government Area.
The intervention, which is being implemented under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, has recorded remarkable progress with the construction of 21 culverts at four gully heads, 332 pedestrian culverts, 417 vehicular slabs, and a 22-kilometer stretch of drainage systems. In addition, 11.5 kilometers of new roads have been completed, significantly improving access and safety in the area.
Governor Ododo, while addressing residents and stakeholders in Ankpa, expressed appreciation for the enthusiastic support and cooperation extended to the contractors handling the project. He described the erosion control initiative as one of the most ambitious ecological interventions ever undertaken by the state government.
“I want to sincerely thank the good people of Ankpa for the rousing welcome here today and your overwhelming cooperation with the contractors handling the Erosion Control Project and other ongoing infrastructural projects across the Local Government Area. Your support has ensured smooth progress and we expect timely delivery.
“This intervention is not just about infrastructure; it is about safety, environmental protection, and long-term sustainability for the people of Ankpa and surrounding communities”, he said.
Governor Ododo emphasized that the success of the project would not have been possible without the backing of the people in the area, commending them for their unity and peaceful disposition, which has ensured the smooth execution of the work.
“I urge you all to see these projects as your own. Protect them, monitor them, and report misuse or vandalism. Public infrastructure must be safeguarded to serve generations. We are executing this project with a World Bank loan that will be paid back over a period of time.
“Let us continue to build a united Kogi State. Division weakens us, but unity strengthens our voice, our progress, and our ability to attract meaningful development”, the Governor urged.
Governor Ododo extended his heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support to the state, acknowledging the President’s leadership as a key enabler of development at the subnational level.
His words: “I wish to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support and for creating the enabling environment that allows states like ours to deliver on our mandates. He is indeed a development enabler and a leader made for a time like this.
“Kogi State will continue to support his transformative leadership, and we pledge our full support to him in the upcoming 2027 elections”.
He concluded by acknowledging the role of traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth groups in maintaining peace and supporting government initiatives in Ankpa.
“I also appreciate the traditional rulers, community leaders, and youth groups in Ankpa for their active role in maintaining peace and supporting government initiatives. Together, we are building a New Kogi, a state where progress is not a promise, but a reality you can see, touch, and experience”, he assured.
The inspection visit marks a major milestone in the Ododo administration’s commitment to environmental resilience, rural development, and inclusive governance across Kogi State.
